Hermès Appoints Grace Wales Bonner as New Creative Director of Menswear
Luxury fashion house Hermès has named British designer Grace Wales Bonner as creative director of its men’s ready‑to‑wear division, marking a significant leadership change at the storied French brand.
A milestone appointment
At 35 years old, Wales Bonner takes the helm as she prepares to succeed Véronique Nichanian, who after a remarkable 37‑year tenure at Hermès will step down.
Her first collection for Hermès is scheduled to debut in January 2027.
Why this matters
Wales Bonner is known for her menswear label (launched in 2014) that deftly blends heritage tailoring with Afro‑Atlantic cultural influences.
Her appointment signals Hermès’ commitment to innovating within menswear while preserving its legacy of craftsmanship. In the first half of 2025 Hermès’ ready‑to‑wear and accessories business reached €2.26 billion, highlighting the strategic importance of the menswear line.
The move also represents a fresh wave of creative leadership in luxury fashion, a sector seeing many high‑profile creative director shifts recently.
Designer’s response & vision
Wales Bonner expressed deep honour at her appointment:
“It is a dream realised to embark on this new chapter … I wish to express my gratitude to Pierre‑Alexis Dumas and Axel Dumas … for the opportunity to bring my vision to this magical house.”
Hermès’ General Artistic Director Pierre‑Alexis Dumas commented:
“Her take on contemporary fashion, craft and culture will contribute to shaping Hermès men’s style, melding the house’s heritage with a confident look on the now. Grace’s appetite and curiosity for artistic practice strongly resonate with Hermès’ creative mindset and approach.”
What’s next
The menswear collection for Spring/Summer 2027 will mark Wales Bonner’s debut role at Hermès.
Meanwhile, Hermès will not stage a June men’s show for SS27; the house will rely on its studio team before Wales Bonner’s takeover.
Nichanian’s final collection will appear at Paris Men’s Fashion Week in January 2026.