Véronique Nichanian exits Hermès after 37 years leading menswear. Her final collection will be unveiled on 24 January at Paris Men’s Fashion Week.
French luxury house Hermès has officially announced the departure of Véronique Nichanian, its legendary artistic director of menswear, who will present her final collection on 24 January during Paris Men’s Fashion Week. After 37 years at the helm, Nichanian steps down as one of the longest-serving and most respected figures in the fashion industry.
The brand expressed gratitude for her “vision, generosity, energy and curiosity”, noting that “the success of the men’s universe owes much to her talent and conviction.” According to internal sources, Hermès may appoint an in-house successor, with designer Benjamin Brett, one of her longest-serving collaborators, among the potential candidates.
Nichanian, a graduate of the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, began her career working alongside Nino Cerruti before joining Hermès in 1988 at the invitation of Jean-Louis Dumas, then CEO of the company. Under her leadership, Hermès evolved into a global powerhouse, reaching €15.2 billion in revenue in 2024.
In her statement, the 71-year-old designer said: “Working for Hermès since 1988 has been an immense pleasure. I am very proud to have been part of this big family, where I have enjoyed total creative freedom.” She added that her goal had always been “to create contemporary garments with a handcrafted soul, merging innovation and heritage to dress modern men with elegance and authenticity.”
Nichanian thanked both Jean-Louis Dumas and his nephew, current CEO Axel Dumas, as well as the house’s artistic director Pierre-Alexis Dumas, for their continued support. “Hermès was gracious enough to let me choose the right moment to step away,” she told Le Figaro.
Her Spring 2026 collection will serve as a synthesis of her signature aesthetic: sensual textures, relaxed silhouettes, and subtle details that reflect a timeless sophistication. According to Hermès, Nichanian “defined a new language in contemporary menswear, exploring materials, colours and techniques with a refined and coherent approach.”
The announcement joins a wider creative reshuffle across major European luxury houses, following the exits of Kim Jones from Dior and Hedi Slimane from Celine. Yet Hermès has remained a model of stability, with Nadège Vanhee leading women’s ready-to-wear since 2014.
Unlike many brands facing a global slowdown in luxury consumption, Hermès continues to thrive thanks to the exclusivity of its products and the loyalty of its clientele. Its ready-to-wear and accessories division now represents 28% of total sales, with a 6% rise in the first half of the year — a testament to the enduring legacy Nichanian leaves behind after nearly four decades of understated elegance and exceptional craftsmanship.
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