British designer Grace Wales Bonner has been named the new creative director of Hermès men’s wear, marking a defining moment for both the designer and the historic French house.
A Dream Come True
At 35, the London-born designer fulfills a dream she once shared in an interview — to work with Hermès. Since founding her own label in 2014, she has earned acclaim for her fusion of intellectual depth, cultural storytelling, and modern tailoring. Her appointment makes her the first Black woman to lead design at a major luxury brand.
Succeeding a Legend
Wales Bonner succeeds Véronique Nichanian, who held the men’s division for 37 years. Known for her sophisticated yet spirited approach, Nichanian’s legacy of jewel-toned leathers and effortless elegance defined Hermès for decades. Her final collection will be shown in January, followed by Wales Bonner’s debut in 2027.
The Art of Thoughtful Design
Drawing inspiration from the Black diaspora, literature, and history, Wales Bonner’s designs weave scholarship into fashion. Her first collection, Ebonics, referenced writers like James Baldwin and Ralph Ellison, setting the tone for a decade of reflective, meaningful work that spans menswear, womenswear, and art collaborations.
From Adidas to Art Galleries
Beyond fashion, she has curated exhibitions at MoMA and the Serpentine Galleries. Her celebrated collaboration with Adidas turned the humble Samba sneaker into a global icon, a testament to her cultural influence and commercial instinct.
A New Era for Hermès
Hermès artistic director Pierre-Alexis Dumas praised her “fresh perspective on craft and culture.” For the storied maison, her arrival signals a balance of intellect, creativity, and timeless luxury — a new chapter led by one of fashion’s most visionary talents.
