Véronique Nichanian Exits Hermès
Hermès men’s artistic director Véronique Nichanian is stepping down after 37 years with the brand. Her final collection will be presented on January 24 during the Paris Fashion Week’s menswear schedule. According to WWD, an internal successor may be named, with longtime deputy designer Benjamin Brett among the possible candidates. In a statement, the brand said: “We thank Véronique warmly for her eye, her vision, her generosity, her energy and her curiosity. Propelled by her talent, conviction and whimsy, she has guided the destiny of a man who walks with allure. The success of the men’s universe owes much to her.” Nichanian began her career at Cerruti under Nino Cerruti and was invited to join Hermès in 1988 by then–chief executive officer Jean-Louis Dumas, becoming one of the few women to lead a menswear division at a major luxury house. During her tenure, Hermès’s revenues grew significantly, reaching 15.2 billion euros in 2024. [WWD]
Fendi Taps Maria Grazia Chiuri
Fendi has appointed Maria Grazia Chiuri as its new chief creative officer. She will present her first collection for Fall/Winter 2026 during Milan Fashion Week next February. The appointment comes six months after her departure from Dior, where she served as creative director for 9 years. The move marks a full-circle moment for Chiuri, who is Roman and previously worked at Fendi for a decade, from 1989 to 1999, as an accessories designer. During that time, she played a key role in developing the house’s iconic Baguette bag. Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of LVMH Group, said: “Maria Grazia Chiuri is one of the greatest creative talents in fashion today, and I am delighted that she has chosen to return to Fendi to continue expressing her creativity within the LVMH group, after sharing her bold vision of fashion. Surrounded by the Fendi teams and in a city that is dear to her, I am convinced that Maria Grazia will contribute to the artistic renewal and future success of the maison, while perpetuating its unique heritage.” [Vogue Business]
Giorgio Armani Group’s New CEO
Giorgio Armani Group has appointed Giuseppe Marsocci as its new chief executive officer. He succeeds Giorgio Armani, who also served as chairman of the company he founded five decades ago. Leo Dell’Orco, chairman of the board said, “international professional experience, deep knowledge of the sector and the company, discretion, loyalty, and team spirit, together with his closeness to Mr. Armani in recent years, make Giuseppe the most natural choice to ensure continuity with the path outlined by the founder.” Marsocci brings more than 35 years of experience in the fashion and luxury industry, including 23 years within the Armani Group. [WWD]
The 2025 Victoria’s Secret Show
One of the hottest nights on television, the Victoria’s Secret fashion show made its big return live from New York City, celebrating this year’s 2025 graduating class of Angels. The night belonged to Missy Elliott, Madison Beer, TWICE, and Karol G. From mom-to-be Jasmine Tookes opening the show to the iconic returns of Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosio, the runway nostalgia was unmatched.
Top Newcomers S/S 26
Whether it was buzzy creative debuts, sophomore collections that proved staying power, or long-awaited returns to the runway, Spring/Summer 2026 was certainly a season defined by transition and momentum. The new guard of creative directors took center stage, from fresh leadership at Chanel, Dior, and Balenciaga to second outings that refined visions at Tom Ford, Dries Van Noten, Celine, and Givenchy. With so many houses resetting their narratives, castings equally reflected fashion’s constant hunger for reinvention, with a noticeable rise in age diversity, though size inclusivity lagged behind. Amid these shifting tides, a sharp new crop of faces emerged, claiming the spotlight across continents and calendars alike. Models.com followed every major debut and breakout moment to present our definitive list of this season’s most promising talents and tapped some of fashion’s most influential creatives to share their picks for the S/S 26 season. Click here to see the entire list.
Anyier Anei on Her Breakout Role in the Film “Couture”
From the runway to the big screen, South Sudanese model Anyier Anei — who made her runway debut at Versace in 2022 and has fronted campaigns for Balmain, Fendi, and Rhode— steps into a new chapter in film. Discovered by director Alice Winocour during a fateful Chanel couture show, Anei was cast opposite Oscar-winner Angelina Jolie as “Ada” in Winocour’s new film, Couture. “I didn’t grow up seeing people like me in entertainment,” Anei shares. “This role means so much more; it’s about representing others who can relate to my story.” Models.com caught up with the emerging actor to discuss her first-ever role, the personal resonance she found in Couture, and what’s next for her as she forges her path in film. Find the full interview here.
MDC Selects: These Model Rookies Are Travelers and Thrillseekers
These model rookies are world travelers and thrill seekers. Don’t miss this week’s MDC Selects as they share with us their essential daily routines, their hometowns, and interesting facts that may surprise you. Click the link here to read more.
