2Jour Notes

I came across yet another video from an “old” Chanel client commenting on the brand’s new creative direction. She was trying on multiple pieces in the boutique and sharing her thoughts along the way.

I lost focus the moment she tried on this trench. “It seems too small,” I thought. “Maybe the sizing was developed for more delicate proportions, which is why the belt ended up so short.”

I couldn’t finish watching the video and went to check the trench on the official website.

It turns out this is intentional. The belt is indeed that short — regardless of body type.

What effect does such a short belt create?

• it creates the impression of a smaller size, as if there isn’t enough belt length • combined with a less defined waist, as in the video, a longer belt could slightly elongate the proportions, whereas this short one only draws attention to it • the horizontal contrasting trim further enhances the effect

In the collection (this is SS2026 Pre-collection), there is also another trench in black — the belt is similarly “awkwardly short”, although in a monochrome look it is less noticeable.

What would make this piece more flattering: • a longer belt, or • a belt with a buckle for a more architectural shape

I would choose the first option, especially for the black trench. For the beige one, a buckle could also work as an alternative.

If the product distorts perception of fit, it works against both the client and the sale.

I hope the decision for a short belt was just a design choice, not an attempt to cut costs by saving a bit of fabric. This is not the way to do it.