Louise Trotter Makes History as the Only Female Director Debuting at SS26 Runways
The fashion world is buzzing with excitement as designer debuts at Dior, Chanel, Gucci, Versace, and more are set to take the stage at the highly anticipated SS26 runways. Among them, Louise Trotter’s debut at Bottega Veneta stands out as she becomes the only female director to make her mark on the runway. But she won’t be the only one for long.
Grace Wales Bonner Named as New Director of Hermès Menswear
In a major shake-up for the fashion industry, Grace Wales Bonner has been announced as the new director of Hermès menswear, replacing Véronique Nichanian after her 37-year tenure. This marks a historic moment as Wales Bonner becomes the first Black woman to lead design at a major fashion house in history.
Wales Bonner’s appointment may have come as a surprise, but her impressive rise in the fashion world has clearly prepared her for this top position. In fact, she had expressed her desire to work with Hermès years ago, stating that “a dream of mine would be to work with a tailoring brand, as that is at the core of what I am doing.” And now, her dream has become a reality.
Since graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2014 and launching her own label ten years ago, Wales Bonner has received numerous accolades for her work. She won the Emerging Menswear Designer at the British Fashion Awards in 2015 and became the first menswear designer to win the LVMH Young Designer Prize in 2016. In 2019, she was awarded the British Fashion Council/ Vogue Designer Fashion Fund, further solidifying her place in the industry.
But it was her collaboration with adidas Originals in 2020 that truly propelled her into the global spotlight. The Wales Bonner x adidas Sambas, first seen on the runway in January of that year, brought a contemporary twist to the classic silhouette and quickly became a must-have item. And with her continued success, Wales Bonner has been recognized at prestigious ceremonies such as the CFDA’s International Men’s Designer of the Year and the BFC’s Fashion Awards.
Now, as she takes on the role of director at Hermès menswear, Wales Bonner’s cross-cultural perspective and research-driven approach are sure to bring a fresh and exciting new vision to the luxury brand. And with her impressive track record, there’s no doubt that she will continue to make history in the fashion world.
