One of London’s most revered names in menswear, designer Grace Wales Bonner takes the helm at Hermès as the maison’s new Head of Men’s Wear.
Paris Fashion Week might’ve come to a close, but signs of a slowdown in fashion’s big headlines are nowhere to be seen. A sign of the times, perhaps – that the industry is in the midst of a much-needed revamp, an injection of fresh air marked by a handful of new designers taking on some of Paris and Milan’s most esteemed seats. Yet, there’s also an undeniable sentiment of sameness. Sure, Jonathan Anderson’s take on Dior, Matthieu Blazy’s brilliant debut at Chanel, and Pierpaolo Piccioli’s kick-off to Balenciaga’s new chapter all tickled our senses. But as the first-date excitement dies down, the creative consciousness begins to wonder: what is a new era without some of the biggest agents of change of our generation occupying those very seats? Ladies and gentlemen, Grace Wales Bonner is taking the helm of Hermès Men’s Wear.
The news comes hot on the heels of the announcement of Véronique Nichanian’s departure, who steps down after 37 years – the longest-standing designer ever to hold such a role. And despite industry whispers pointing towards an in-house promotion, the French Maison went for what’s best in Britain, what’s best in new: Grace Wales Bonner, the British-Jamaican designer who, through her namesake label, built one of the most exciting menswear brands of the last decade. “I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with the role of Creative Director of Hermès Men’s Ready-to-Wear,” she said in a statement. “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.”
All images are by Getty Images
It’s a historic succession: Grace Wales Bonner is now the first Black woman to lead design at a major fashion house. Through close ties with the art world and a deep connection to her roots and heritage, the 2016 LVMH Prize winner has masterfully carved her own path as a tailoring mastermind – and a titan in the exploration of Black masculinity and elegance. It feels serendipitous: the designer has previously stated her desire to collaborate with the Maison in System Magazine, and the appointment crowns what might just be her biggest year yet. Dressing Lewis Hamilton for the Met Gala, paying homage to dandyism; her return to Paris to celebrate her label’s 10th anniversary; the success of yet another drop of her Wales Bonner x Adidas Originals collection, one of the most coveted partnerships in an increasingly collab-saturated industry. It all speaks to an unstoppable rise.
The appointment also makes a loud statement from the French Maison. Amidst a sea of Kellys and Birkins, Grace Wales Bonner is perhaps the strongest name to cut through the noise and steer Hermès’ storied menswear division through a new lens – one defined by her appreciation for craftsmanship, exquisite tailoring, and a laid-back, understated humour. Her instinctive understanding of accessories, leatherwork, and the cultural weight of style makes this pairing all the more compelling.
Good things come to those who wait. Grace Wales Bonner will present her first collection for Hermès in January 2027.
