Hermes Men’s Fashion Era Ends as Designer Veronique Nichanian Departs

The world of luxury fashion is witnessing a significant changing of the guard. Veronique Nichanian, the revered artistic director of menswear at Hermes, has presented her final collection for the French house. Her departure concludes a remarkable 37-year tenure, a period in which she fundamentally reshaped the identity and commercial success of Hermes menswear.

A Legacy of Quiet Luxury and Modern Comfort

Nichanian, now 71, joined Hermes in 1987 and was appointed to lead menswear just one year later. At the time, the brand was overwhelmingly known for its iconic women’s scarves, leather handbags, and equestrian heritage. Menswear was a smaller, more traditional part of the business. Nichanian’s vision was to inject a sense of relaxed, modern elegance into the line, moving it beyond formal suiting.

She became famous for her philosophy of “understated luxury.” Her collections focused on exceptional materials, perfect tailoring, and a palette of rich, subtle colors. She prioritized comfort and wearability, crafting luxurious knitwear, soft leather jackets, and impeccably cut trousers that defined a discreet, confident style for the global gentleman. This approach resonated powerfully, growing Hermes menswear into a multi-billion euro pillar of the brand.

The End of an Era and a Smooth Transition

Nichanian’s final show in Paris was a celebration of her enduring codes. The collection featured the elegant, relaxed silhouettes and masterful fabric work that became her signature. Her exit marks the end of one of the longest and most influential careers in contemporary fashion design. Industry observers note that her quiet consistency provided a stable counterpoint to the often-volatile fashion cycle, earning her deep respect from clients and colleagues alike.

Hermes has acted swiftly to name a successor, ensuring a clear path forward. The house has appointed British-Jamaican designer Grace Wales Bonner to take over the creative direction for menswear. Wales Bonner is celebrated for her deeply researched, elegant collections that explore themes of Black identity, cultural exchange, and refined tailoring. Her eponymous label has won critical acclaim, and her appointment signals a new, intellectually-driven chapter for Hermes.

What This Means for Hermes and Investors

For a company as steeped in tradition as Hermes, such a major leadership change is a notable event. The brand’s immense value is built on a reputation for timeless quality and continuity. Nichanian’s long career embodied that principle. The transition to a new designer like Wales Bonner represents both an evolution and a test of the brand’s enduring appeal.

Investors will watch closely to see how this creative shift influences the menswear division’s strong financial performance. The key will be whether Wales Bonner can attract a new generation of clients while maintaining the loyalty of existing ones who cherished Nichanian’s vision. Hermes’s overall strategy remains focused on controlled growth, scarcity, and craftsmanship. This designer change is a reminder that even the most stable luxury houses must evolve creatively to stay relevant for the future.

Veronique Nichanian leaves behind a transformed legacy. She proved that luxury menswear could be both supremely comfortable and exquisitely made, setting a standard that will influence the industry for years to come.