Nostalgia and Farewell: Veronique Nichanian Wraps Up 37-Year Journey at Hermes with Grand Debut

Veronique Nichanian, who had served as the chief menswear designer at Hermes for 37 years, received a standing ovation from an enthusiastic crowd during her final runway show in Paris. The event took place on a historic stock market building and was attended by notable figures such as American singer Usher, rapper Travis Scott, and “Gossip Girl” star Ed Westwick.

At 71 years old, Nichanian addressed the press after the show, stating that she had made her decision to step down carefully. “It’s my decision to stop and do something else,” she told AFP. “I feel it is the right moment for me and for the house.”

The departure of such an experienced designer marks a significant milestone in the luxury fashion industry, which has seen recent changes at high-profile companies like Chanel, Dior, and Gucci. Under Nichanian’s leadership, Hermes transformed from a niche brand specializing in scarves and leather goods into a globally recognized fashion powerhouse with annual sales of menswear estimated in the billions.

Her departure leaves behind a legacy characterized by her emphasis on quality and comfort through subtle design shifts rather than flashy innovations. Her final collection featured garments inspired by her work in the 1990s and early 2000s, underscoring how Hermes clothes remain timeless classics.

To succeed Nichanian, Hermes has appointed Grace Wales Bonner, a young designer from London whose background incorporates elements of Afro-Caribbean heritage. This appointment represents a significant generational shift for the established French brand. “Grace Wales Bonner is very modern and committed,” commented Marie Ottavi, a fashion journalist at France’s Liberation newspaper. “Hermes has chosen someone who will bring not only quality but also an image and point of view.”

When Nichanian spoke to Business of Fashion about her decision to step down from the menswear division, she expressed concern over the increasing pace of change in corporate environments, which seemed to diminish some of the magic and joy associated with the fashion industry. She noted that many colleagues at other high-profile houses felt similarly disenchanted by these changes.

However, Nichanian will continue to oversee men’s accessories and silk production at Hermes, indicating her continued relevance within the company. Her journey from L’Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne to a leadership role at a global luxury brand has been marked by significant personal challenges as she navigated what was considered a “pretty macho milieu” for women in fashion.

Nichanian’s dedication to subtle, luxurious design details such as lambskin-lined pockets showcases her approach to creating memorable, high-quality pieces that resonate with both the house’s legacy and contemporary sensibilities.