Hermès Names British Designer Grace Wales Bonner as Men’s Wear Director
British designer Grace Wales Bonner has been appointed as the new Men’s Wear Director for Hermès, a prestigious French fashion house. At 35, she marks a significant milestone as the first black woman to lead design at a major fashion house.
Transition of Leadership at Hermès
Grace Wales Bonner’s appointment follows the long tenure of Véronique Nichanian, who served for 37 years. Nichanian’s final collection will debut in Paris in January 2024, while Wales Bonner’s first project is set to launch in 2027.
Wales Bonner’s Vision and Background
In a statement, Wales Bonner expressed her gratitude, stating she is “deeply honoured” to take on this role. She described this opportunity as a dream realized, linking it to a lineage of inspired craftsmen and designers.
- Born in London to an English mother and Jamaican father.
- Founded her own label in 2014 after graduating from Central Saint Martins College of Art.
- Has collaborated with notable figures including F1 driver Lewis Hamilton and musician Solange Knowles.
Influential Career Highlights
Wales Bonner continues to run her own brand alongside her new role at Hermès. She has received recognition for her creative work, including curating an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. In 2022, she was appointed MBE for her contributions to fashion.
Industry Reactions
Pierre-Alexis Dumas, Hermès’ general artistic director, shared his excitement about her appointment. He noted that Wales Bonner’s approach to contemporary fashion aligns well with the brand’s creative philosophy. Dumas emphasized the potential for enriching dialogue between Wales Bonner and Hermès.
Future Directions for Hermès
Wales Bonner’s leadership is expected to infuse a fresh perspective into Hermès men’s style, seamlessly blending the house’s heritage with modern aesthetics.
