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

Founder of eponymous brand worn by Duchess of Sussex becomes first black woman to lead a major fashion house

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.

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.