Russian Celebrities Are Furious — Chanel Won’t Let Them Shop, and I Can’t Look Away
I never thought I’d see the day when buying a luxury handbag became a global headline, but here we are. Russian celebrities are fuming after Chanel refused to sell its products to anyone linked to Russia—and honestly, I get why it’s causing a stir.
As I read about it, I found myself torn. On one hand, I understand Chanel’s move. The brand, like many Western companies, is following European sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. That includes banning luxury goods sales to Russian citizens, even outside of Russia. But here’s where things get messy: Russian influencers, models, and public figures are taking this personally.
Several of them have posted dramatic videos online—cutting up Chanel bags, swearing off the brand, and calling the policy “Russophobic.” One influencer said, “If Chanel doesn’t respect us, we won’t respect Chanel.” It sounds like a bold statement, but I couldn’t help thinking: is this protest rooted in pride—or privilege?
From where I’m sitting, it’s hard to feel sympathy for millionaires upset they can’t buy a $7,000 purse while people are suffering in a war zone. At the same time, I do get the frustration of feeling singled out. I’d probably feel angry too if I were denied service based on my nationality.
But here’s the truth no one wants to say out loud: this isn’t just about fashion. It’s about how politics now influence everything—including luxury shopping. I’m watching a global brand take a moral stand, and a group of influencers reveal how disconnected they are from the bigger picture.
This whole situation? It’s couture drama at its peak. And somehow, I can’t stop watching.
