South African singer Tyla left a mark at her debut Chanel show, showcasing a vintage-inspired outfit that honors the brand’s legacy while reflecting her unique style.
South African singer and style icon Tyla made a significant impression at her debut Chanel show during Paris Fashion Week on March 11, 2023. The event, held at the Grand Palais, showcased the Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection, drawing in a number of celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. Tyla, known for her hit single “Water,” captivated the audience with a vintage-inspired outfit that reflected the aesthetics of the iconic ’90s supermodel era.
Her striking ensemble featured a strapless pink bustier top adorned with gold buttons and exposed stitching, elements reminiscent of luxury brand founder Karl Lagerfeld’s designs, as noted by W Magazine. Tyla paired this with a matching micro-mini skirt, evoking the glamour of supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista. Rather than a traditional blazer, she chose a cropped bolero jacket draped over her shoulders, maintaining the same stitching and button details as her top.
In an interview following the show, Tyla expressed her intention to honor Chanel’s legacy while ensuring the look remained personal to her. “I wanted to honour Chanel’s history but make it feel like me,” she stated.
Her accessories complemented her outfit impeccably. Tyla carried a sleek black Chanel handbag and wore almond-toe slingbacks that added sophistication to her look. To enhance her style, she incorporated a statement lariat necklace and graphic gold jewelry for a touch of sparkle. Her hairstyle—a jagged bob with fringe bangs—added a punk-inspired twist, which she described as a risk that ultimately brought her entire ensemble together.
The event saw other celebrities, including British actress Simone Ashley and Dakota Fanning, also embracing Chanel’s timeless fashion codes. The collection presented by Chanel’s in-house team featured signature elements such as tweed ensembles accessorized with pearls and innovative interpretations of the classic little black dress with sheer overlays. This showcase marked a pivotal moment in the brand’s history, as it was Matthieu Blazy’s final collection before taking over as creative director later in the year.
For Tyla, being present at such a prestigious event was a remarkable achievement, especially as the first South African artist to grace the cover of British Vogue. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “It’s surreal… Growing up in Johannesburg, I never imagined I’d be sitting front row at Chanel.”
In South Africa, Tyla’s appearance at the Chanel show has generated considerable pride and excitement among her fans. Her ability to blend global high fashion with her distinct identity serves as inspiration for young individuals in her home country, with one fan remarking, “She’s putting Mzansi on the map!”
As fashion houses look forward to new directions, Tyla’s contribution at the Chanel show not only celebrated the brand’s rich heritage but also hinted at its evolving future under Blazy. With fans anticipating innovations in his upcoming collection debuting in October 2025, Tyla’s participation has cemented her influence within both the music and fashion realms. She encapsulated her experience, stating, “Chanel is about elegance and confidence—and today, I felt both.”
Source: Noah Wire Services
