What Grace Wales Bonner’s Hermès Menswear Appointment Means For Black Women
In a groundbreaking move, Grace Wales Bonner has been appointed as the Creative Director of Hermès Menswear, making her the first black woman to lead a major European luxury fashion house. This momentous milestone is not just a personal triumph for Wales Bonner but also a significant moment for Black women in the fashion industry.
At only 35, the British-Jamaican designer is making history succeeding Véronique Nichanian, who led Hermès menswear from 1988 until now. Though strange to imagine, Nichanian started the role at Hermès before Wales Bonner was born. Nevertheless, her appointment marks a shift towards greater inclusivity and representation in high fashion. Her debut collection is set to be shown in January 2027, with Hermès opting to skip the June fashion week.
Grace founded the London-based label Wales Bonner in 2014, which originally specialised in menswear. Her design philosophy intertwines European tailoring with Afro-Atlantic influences, reflecting her English-Jamaican heritage, while her work often explores themes of Black identity and cultural narratives, offering a fresh perspective in the luxury fashion realm.
For Black women, the appointment of the South London-born fashion designer symbolises a breakthrough in an industry where representation has historically been limited. Her success challenges traditional norms and paves the way for more inclusive leadership in fashion. As stylist Milton Dixon aptly noted, “We’ve always, as a community within the fashion industry, wanted Grace to be somewhere like Hermès”.
As Wales Bonner prepares to unveil her vision for Hermès menswear, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring designers, particularly Black women, demonstrating that the intersection of heritage, innovation, and representation can redefine the future of fashion. Needless to say, watch this space!
By Liv Brewin