PARIS, Oct 17, 2025 — In a move that marks the end of an era in luxury fashion, Véronique Nichanian, the visionary artistic director of Hermès menswear, will depart the legendary French fashion house after an extraordinary 37-year tenure, Hermès confirmed on Friday.
Her exit underscores a period of sweeping change across the high-end fashion industry, where several major brands — including Chanel and Dior — are ushering in a new generation of creative leadership.
A 37-Year Legacy of Quiet Elegance and Timeless Craftsmanship
Since joining Hermès in 1988, Nichanian has been widely credited with redefining men’s luxury clothing through her minimalist approach, exquisite tailoring, and subtle sophistication. Her vision brought modernity to Hermès menswear while preserving the brand’s hallmark craftsmanship and understated refinement.
Over the years, her collections have come to epitomize effortless French elegance, with soft leather jackets, perfectly cut trousers, and luxurious yet practical silhouettes that bridged the gap between traditional tailoring and contemporary wear.
Nichanian’s consistent ability to evolve Hermès’ menswear while maintaining its identity has earned her a rare level of respect in an industry known for constant reinvention.
“Véronique Nichanian has been a pillar of Hermès’ menswear universe,” said a senior fashion editor in Paris. “Her understanding of material, movement, and masculinity helped define what modern luxury looks like for men.”
Her Final Show Set for January 2026
According to Hermès, Nichanian’s final menswear collection will be unveiled in January 2026 during Paris Fashion Week, marking the culmination of a remarkable career that spanned nearly four decades and countless runway moments.
Her departure was first reported by Le Figaro, and while no successor has been officially named, industry speculation suggests Hermès may continue its tradition of promoting from within — maintaining the house’s philosophy of discretion and long-term creative continuity.
Fashion Industry in Flux: A New Creative Generation Emerges
Nichanian’s exit comes at a time when luxury fashion is experiencing widespread creative turnover. In recent months, Matthieu Blazy (41) was appointed to lead Chanel, while Jonathan Anderson (41) took over at Dior, signaling a shift toward younger, multi-disciplinary designers shaping the future of haute couture.
This wave of change arrives as global luxury brands face mounting pressure to revive consumer interest amid slowing sales and economic uncertainty. However, Hermès remains a notable exception, with its loyal clientele continuing to drive record revenues, particularly through the enduring appeal of its Birkin and Kelly handbags.
Despite global headwinds, Hermès’ strategy of timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship, and controlled exclusivity has insulated it from the volatility affecting other fashion houses.
A Quiet Force in Fashion
Nichanian, now 71, was one of the few women to lead a major menswear division in Paris — a trailblazer whose influence extended far beyond Hermès. She rarely sought the spotlight, allowing her work to speak for itself through meticulous design and subtle innovation.
Her departure marks not just a leadership change but also the closing chapter of an era defined by craftsmanship, continuity, and quiet strength — values deeply ingrained in the Hermès DNA.
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