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Grace Wales Bonner, a 35-year-old fashion designer, has been appointed as the Creative Director of Men's Ready-to-Wear at Hermès. In a historic move, the British-Jamaican couturier is the first Black woman to lead a major European fashion house.
The decision surprised many, as Vogue observed: “While industry insiders were betting on a promotion from within, Hermès went for a renowned talent.”
Wales Bonner is stepping into the shoes of Véronique Nichanian, a revered designer who is leaving the brand after an exceptional 37-year tenure. She is scheduled to unveil her inaugural collection for Hermès men’s ready-to-wear in January 2027.
Hermès: A long-awaited dream
If manifestation has worked out for anyone, Grace is one of them. Back in 2019, in an interview with the System Magazine, she exclaimed that it is her dream to work with Hermès, one of her favourite brands. “A house with heritage is interesting to me, because I am interested in a framework and then disrupting elements of classicism within that.”
Following the official announcement, Wales Bonner’s sentiment reflected the realisation of this dream. Her statement, widely reported, highlighted:
“I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with the role of Creative Director of Hermès Men's Ready-to-Wear. It is a dream realised to embark on this new chapter, following in a lineage of inspired craftspeople and designers. I wish to express my gratitude to Pierre-Alexis Dumas and Axel Dumas for the opportunity to bring my vision to this magical house.”
Pierre-Alexis Dumas, Hermès’s General Artistic Director, expressed enthusiasm for the appointment, signalling the house's intent to blend its traditions with a modern outlook. He added, “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."
Who is Grace Wales Bonner? Multicultural Roots & Fascination With India
Wales Bonner established her eponymous label in 2014, celebrating her diverse roots with a combination of European sleek tailoring and references to the Afro-Atlantic spirit. She has earned the LVMH Prize and is credited with popularising her cult Adidas Samba collaborations.
Interestingly, one of her most celebrated works was the Spring/Summer 2026 collection, titled "Jewel," which was inspired by Indian Maharaja Yeshwant Rao Holkar II of Indore. Presented at Paris Fashion Week, it featured sharply tailored, sophisticated, and avant-garde tuxedos.