Grace Wales Bonner: British designer behind rise of Sambas to lead Hermès menswear

<p>Founder of eponymous brand worn by Duchess of Sussex becomes first black woman to lead a major fashion house</p><p>In 2019, the designer Grace Wales Bonner told an interviewer that it was a dream of hers “to work with a brand like Hermès”. Six years later, the 35-year-old Briton was named creative director of menswear for the French luxury company, becoming the first female black designer to lead a major fashion house.</p><p>Wales Bonner will succeed the French designer Véronique Nichanian, 71, who has headed the men’s division for 37 years, and her debut collection will be shown in January 2027.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2025/oct/22/grace-wales-bonner-profile-sambas-hermes-menswear">Continue reading...</a>