Véronique Nichanian Makes a Lasting Impression With Final Hermès Collection
Nichanian was responsible for the visual conception of the Hermès man for nearly four decades.
Summary
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Véronique Nichanian marks her final collection for Hermès with a Fall/Winter 2026 show that serves as a definitive manifesto on longevity
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The collection features weightless constructions and modular silhouettes designed for a life in motion
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The palette of inky blue and peat is punctuated by signature flashes of orange and meticulous “selfish details”
For the Fall/Winter 2026 menswear presentation in Paris, the air was thick with a profound sense of history. This collection marked the final bow for Véronique Nichanian, a designer whose 38-year tenure at Hermès represents an almost unheard-of era of creative stability and quiet excellence. Rather than a loud departure, the show was a masterclass in the very “informal chic” she spent nearly four decades perfecting.
This final runway serves as a manifesto of her design philosophy – creating garments that act as lifelong companions, evolving alongside the wearer rather than fading with the seasons. The inspiration for this landmark collection was the archive of her own memory. Nichanian looked back at the evolution of the Hermès man since 1988, distilling thirty-seven years of innovation into a single, cohesive narrative. The runway showcased the pillars of her legacy: the supple, high-performance leathers, the sophisticated play of textures in knitwear, and the “haute-sportswear” silhouettes that have become the house signature.
By revisiting her past work, Nichanian didn’t just celebrate her career, she solidified the brand’s identity as truly timeless. The garments felt as relevant today as they would have decades ago, proving that true luxury doesn’t need to chase trends—it creates a permanent space for itself. As the finale models walked, it was clear that while Nichanian is stepping away, her influence is woven into the very fabric of the house, ensuring that the Hermès man remains the global benchmark for effortless, enduring elegance.
