Wales Bonner Named Hermès Menswear Director

Grace Wales Bonner has been appointed creative director of men’s ready-to-wear at Hermès, succeeding Véronique Nichanian after her 37-year tenure. Hermès and Pierre‑Alexis Dumas framed the hire as a meeting of the house’s heritage with Wales Bonner’s contemporary, craft-driven vision. The 35-year-old London-born Central Saint Martins graduate, founder of Wales Bonner in 2014, is known for precise tailoring, Afro‑Atlantic cultural research, high-profile collaborations including adidas, and major industry honors. The appointment is historically significant: Wales Bonner becomes the first Black woman to lead design at a major French/European luxury house. She is set to present her debut Hermès collection in January, though outlets report differing years for that presentation.