Lupita Nyong’o has been officially announced as the newest Chanel ambassador, a significant milestone for both the actress and the renowned French fashion house. This collaboration highlights Nyong’o’s longstanding connection with Chanel, having been a loyal friend of the brand for over a decade.
Known for her remarkable style, she has frequently appeared in Chanel designs at prominent events, including the recent Fall-Winter 2023/24 Haute Couture show and the Academy Museum Gala.
The announcement took place on the final day of Paris Fashion Week during the Spring-Summer 2025 show at the Grand Palais. Nyong’o shared her enthusiasm on social media, stating, “I am deeply honoured to be a global ambassador for the House of Chanel.”
Nyong’o’s appointment is particularly noteworthy given Chanel’s efforts to address criticisms regarding its lack of diversity. With the recent appointment of British-Indian Leena Nair as global chief executive, Nyong’o’s role signals a further commitment to evolving the brand’s identity. By bringing her dynamic career—marked by an Oscar-winning performance in “12 Years a Slave” and roles in “Black Panther” and “Star Wars”—to the forefront, Chanel aligns itself with modern ideals of representation.
As a New York Times bestselling author and host of the podcast “Mind Your Own,” which explores African narratives, Nyong’o embodies a blend of elegance, activism, and storytelling that resonates with contemporary audiences. This partnership has the potential to celebrate varied beauty standards and cultural backgrounds, marking a significant shift in the brand’s approach to fashion.
However, this collaboration raises questions about the potential impact on Nyong’o’s distinctive style, which has often been characterized by bold colors and adventurous fashion choices. Chanel’s recent collection leaned towards classic neutrals and muted tones, which may contrast with the vibrant palette Nyong’o is known for. Maintaining her unique aesthetic while navigating the expectations of a global brand could present challenges for both Nyong’o and her stylist, Micaela Erlanger.
The future of this partnership remains to be seen. It could either be an opportunity for Chanel to reinvent itself through Nyong’o’s perspective or risk stifling the qualities that have made her a fashion icon. As this new chapter unfolds, industry observers will be watching closely to see how Nyong’o balances her individual style with the brand’s established aesthetic, hoping that this collaboration champions the diversity and creativity that define her essence
