GRACE WALES BONNER NAMED HERMÈS MENSWEAR DIRECTOR

Malick Bodian

Summary:

• British designer Grace Wales Bonner takes over menswear at Hermès following Véronique Nichanian's 37-year tenure
• Wales Bonner brings research-driven approach combining European tailoring with Afro-Atlantic influences
• First Hermès collection under Wales Bonner's direction scheduled for January 2027

Hermès confirmed British designer Grace Wales Bonner as the new menswear creative director. The announcement follows days after Véronique Nichanian revealed her departure from the French fashion house after 37 years.

Wales Bonner, 35, achieves a personal ambition she discussed previously in System Magazine. She founded her own label and built a reputation for cultural research and intellectual depth in design. Her work merges European sartorial traditions with Afro-Atlantic influences.

The designer's approach centers on precise tailoring and thoughtful material selection. Her designs feature subtle commentary on identity and heritage. These qualities align with Hermès' focus on craftsmanship and refined luxury.

Wales Bonner won the LVMH Prize and expanded her practice beyond fashion design. She curates exhibitions, writes, and leads artistic projects. Her collaborations include long-term work with adidas Originals and exhibitions at institutions like MoMA.

Her client list includes Kendrick Lamar and Lewis Hamilton. She created merchandise with Solange. These partnerships demonstrate her ability to work across commercial and cultural spheres.

Nichanian joined Hermès in 1988 and shaped the house's menswear identity for nearly four decades. Her final collection for Hermès appears in January 2026. Wales Bonner's debut collection follows in January 2027.

The succession marks a strategic shift for Hermès menswear. Wales Bonner's multidisciplinary background offers a new perspective on luxury design. Her academic rigor and attention to craft match the house's values while introducing fresh references and contexts.

Her eponymous label established her design language over the past decade. Collections feature hand-finished details, archival research, and collaborations with artisans. The work earned critical acclaim and commercial success.

Wales Bonner studied at Central Saint Martins in London. Her graduate collection received immediate recognition. She launched her brand in 2014 and won the LVMH Prize in 2016. Recognition from the British Fashion Council followed. Museums acquired pieces from her collections.

The designer's research explores diaspora, identity, and cross-cultural exchange. Her collections reference specific historical moments and figures. This intellectual framework distinguishes her work in the fashion industry.

Hermès operates as one of the few independent luxury houses. The family-owned business maintains control over production and creative direction. Appointing Wales Bonner demonstrates confidence in her vision and the house's willingness to evolve.

Nichanian's departure ends one of the longest creative tenures in fashion. She maintained consistency while allowing the brand to grow. Her work emphasized quality, discretion, and timeless design principles.

Wales Bonner inherits a strong foundation. The transition period allows for careful planning. She will have time to study the Hermès archives and understand the house's production capabilities before presenting her first collection.

The appointment reflects broader changes in luxury fashion leadership. Houses increasingly seek designers with distinct viewpoints and cultural authority. Wales Bonner's combination of commercial success and critical respect positions her well for this role.

Her work at Hermès begins immediately. She will collaborate with the house's ateliers and study their techniques. The January 2027 debut gives her more than a year to develop her first collection.

Industry observers anticipate how Wales Bonner will interpret Hermès' design codes. Her background suggests an approach that honors tradition while introducing new narratives. The appointment represents both continuity and change for the 187-year-old house.