Véronique Nichanian, the longtime artistic director of Hermès menswear, will step down after 37 years, marking the end of one of fashion’s most remarkable tenures. Hermès confirmed that she will present her final collection during Paris Men’s Week in January 2026. Her successor will be announced soon, closing a chapter that began in 1988 when Jean-Louis Dumas appointed her to define the Hermès men’s identity.
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Nichanian’s arrival shaped Hermès into a leading force in luxury menswear. She built a vision grounded in refinement, precision, and craftsmanship. Her designs consistently focused on wearability and texture, often described as effortless and carefully constructed. Each season reflected her philosophy of quiet sophistication and a devotion to material excellence. She once described her process as “slowing down time” and giving humanity to clothing, a sentiment that defined her approach to modern luxury.
Speaking to Le Figaro, Nichanian said, “I still love this job. However, I believe that to practice it the way I like to, it now requires more and more time – and today, I want to devote that time to other things… Hermès has, above all, shown great elegance by allowing me to choose the moment that felt right to step down. I’ve been thinking about it and discussing it with Axel and Pierre-Alexis Dumas for a year or two now. It’s time to pass the baton.”
At 71, Nichanian departs as the longest-serving creative director in fashion. Her work defined the essence of Hermès menswear, measured, precise, and human. As she prepares to close this extraordinary era, her influence endures in the integrity and quiet power of her designs.
