Peter Hawkings leaves Tom Ford after more than two decades. Estée Lauder will soon announce his successor as the brand adjusts.
In an unexpected turn, Peter Hawkings, who took on the role of creative director at Tom Ford in 2023, has left the company. Estée Lauder Companies, the owner of Tom Ford, announced his departure on Monday and assured that a successor will be named soon. This change comes as the brand prepares for its Spring-Summer 2025 collection in Milan this September.
Hawkings has been a key figure at Tom Ford for over two decades. He began his career as an assistant to Tom Ford, helped launch Tom Ford Menswear in 2006, and rose to senior vice president. Following the sale of the brand to Estée Lauder for $2.8 billion, Hawkings led the creative transition, including a strategic partnership with the Italian group Zegna.
His initial collections paid tribute to Ford’s iconic designs at Gucci, with bold pieces like leather micro-shorts. Later, he focused on commercially viable outerwear, such as military jackets and leather trench coats. While some collections were praised, others were seen as conservative.
Despite mixed reviews, Hawkings maintained a high level of celebrity attendance at his shows. His departure leaves a significant void as Zegna and Estée Lauder continue with their plans for the brand, including doubling stores and relaunching the women’s line. The fashion industry speculates about who will be his successor, anticipating a new leader to continue Tom Ford’s legacy.