Chanel has announced the acquisition of Charvet, the historic Parisian house founded in 1838 and regarded as France’s oldest shirtmaker. The move reflects Chanel’s long-term commitment to preserving exceptional craftsmanship, supporting the transmission of rare artisanal skills, and safeguarding an emblematic part of French heritage.
The acquisition will allow Charvet to continue developing within a stable framework while maintaining its creative independence. For Chanel, the operation is part of a broader vision dedicated to protecting métiers d’art and ensuring that traditional savoir-faire remains alive, relevant, and connected to contemporary creation.
Bruno Pavlovsky, President of Fashion Activities at Chanel and Chanel SAS, highlighted the strong resonance between the two houses, united by the same exacting standards, respect for craftsmanship, and belief in longevity. He also recalled the symbolic connection between the maisons: Boy Capel, an important figure in Gabrielle Chanel’s life, was a regular client of Charvet.
The project emerged after a creative dialogue between Matthieu Blazy and Charvet for his first Spring-Summer 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection. This collaboration naturally led to the idea of a deeper and more lasting relationship, aimed at preserving Charvet’s unique expertise.
Jean-Claude Colban, Managing Director of Charvet, described the acquisition as the meeting of two historic Parisian companies brought together by shared values: excellence, transmission of savoir-faire, respect for craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail.
Founded in 1838, Charvet is renowned for its bespoke shirts, suits, and accessories, and has served figures such as Charles Baudelaire, Marcel Proust, Winston Churchill, Jean Cocteau, and Gabrielle Chanel. Today, the house continues to be celebrated internationally, with its sole workshop located in Saint-Gaultier, in the Indre region.
