Hermes is one of the most iconic luxury fashion brands in the world, known for its timeless designs, impeccable craftsmanship, and high-quality materials. However, in 2010, the brand faced a major challenge when its creative director, Jean Paul Gaultier, announced his departure. Many wondered how Hermes would survive without Gaultier’s visionary leadership.
But then came the shocking news that Alexander McQueen had been appointed as the new creative director of Hermes. McQueen was a rebellious designer known for his avant-garde designs and gothic aesthetic – a stark contrast to Hermes’ classic and understated style. So how did Hermes survive McQueen?
The Initial Reaction
When McQueen was announced as the new creative director of Hermes in 2010, the fashion world was taken aback. Many saw it as an odd pairing – how could a designer known for his dark and edgy designs take on a brand that was synonymous with classic elegance? Some even speculated that McQueen’s appointment was just a publicity stunt.
However, Hermes CEO Patrick Thomas defended the decision, stating that he saw McQueen’s appointment as an opportunity to inject some fresh energy into the brand. “We wanted to push ourselves out of our comfort zone,” he said in an interview with The New York Times.
The First Collection
McQueen’s first collection for Hermes debuted during Paris Fashion Week in October 2010. It was met with mixed reviews – some praised McQueen’s daring vision while others felt that it strayed too far from Hermes’ signature style.
The collection featured bold prints, oversized Silhouettes, and unexpected details like metal hardware and leather accents. It was a departure from the refined and restrained aesthetic that Hermes was known for.
However, despite some criticism, the collection generated buzz and excitement around the brand. It showed that Hermes was willing to take risks and experiment with new ideas.
- The Legacy Continues
Tragically, McQueen passed away just a few months after his debut collection for Hermes. His sudden death left the fashion world in shock and raised questions about the future of the brand.
However, Hermes was able to carry on McQueen’s legacy by continuing to push the boundaries and experiment with new ideas. The brand hired Christophe Lemaire as its new creative director, who brought a fresh perspective while still staying true to Hermes’ heritage.
Under Lemaire’s leadership, Hermes continued to innovate and evolve its designs while maintaining its reputation for quality and craftsmanship. The brand introduced new materials like carbon fiber and high-tech fabrics, and expanded into new categories like home decor and fragrance.
Conclusion
In the end, Hermes was able to survive McQueen by embracing change and taking risks. While McQueen’s tenure at the brand was brief, it left a lasting impact on Hermes’ identity and approach to design. By continuing to evolve while staying true to its core values, Hermes has remained one of the most respected and coveted luxury brands in the world.