Véronique Nichanian’s farewell at Hermès was both celebratory and effortless, blending fresh looks with familiar signatures that reminded everyone of her unmistakable style. On the runway, Hermès’ luxurious minimalism shone once again—along with its unexpected, slightly playful side, reports WWD.
Nichanian, who spent 37 years at Hermès and became fashion’s longest-serving creative director, said she has no regrets.
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“I feel no nostalgia. I’m happy, I’m proud of myself. I worked a lot and with great passion. I created the Hermès man’s style: simple lines and honesty. I love playing with fabrics, and the house gave me so much freedom. I make things that suit me best and the Hermès man. I speak plainly and never change my mind,” she said.

Nichanian added that while she plans to remain close to the Hermès family, it’s time to move on. “I want to do many things again, and now I have time — to travel, live somewhere else, do something different.”
The farewell show was full of luxury and drama: shimmering crocodile-skin suits and coats designed for the holiday season, and delicate shearling pieces—some lined in grapefruit pink, others in icy white. A retro aviator theme ran through the collection, evoking the spirit of pilot and writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Models walked in shearling bombers, ear-flap hats, and coats with tall leather collars and buckles. They carried structured rectangular travel bags in sky blue, olive, and brown. Military-style jumpsuits in leather or glossy crocodile looked striking, if not entirely practical for a cockpit.
The fabrics were vivid and tactile: long color-block scarves adorned with small leather squares, patchwork sweaters, zip-up details on plaid knits, and cozy turtlenecks printed with a “blurred” floral pattern. The same floral motif appeared on the backs of gray suits—an understated touch that made the looks even more elegant.

At the end of the show, Hermès paid tribute to Nichanian by showing clips of her taking bows over more than three decades with the house. Guests included Nichanian’s friends, including Sir Paul Smith, who has known her for 37 years and praised her endurance and the strength of her style. He flew to Paris specifically to say goodbye.
It truly marks the end of an era—an era when designers could build their vision over decades, and brand owners had the patience and understanding to look long-term. And, like Nichanian herself, no one seemed to regret it.
Photo: The Associated Press
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