Is Hermès outdated? Véronique Nichanian's subtle collection sparks debate in fashion circles
TOI World Desk | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Jun 28, 2025, 18:00 IST
Hermès embraces subtle craftsmanship and timeless luxury at Paris Men’s Fashion Week
( Image credit : AP )
Véronique Nichanian's Hermès collection at Paris Men's Fashion Week emphasized enduring quality and customer-focused design amidst industry instability. The collection featured sharply tailored jackets, high-waisted trousers, and neutral tones, reflecting Hermès' core philosophy of subtle luxury. Industry analysts suggest this commitment to craftsmanship resonates with clients seeking authenticity over fleeting trends, making a strong impact through consistency.
Artistic director Véronique Nichanian unveiled the collection beneath large mirrored installations, creating an atmosphere that highlighted the clothing rather than overshadowing it. Models walked the runway in sharply tailored jackets, high-waisted woven leather trousers, and sleeveless tops, showcasing a blend of traditional house codes with contemporary silhouettes.
A Palette of Precision and Subtlety
Nichanian’s color choices remained understated yet deliberate. Shades of coffee, slate, taupe, and beige dominated the collection, each selected to convey a mood of calm luxury and timelessness. The focus on neutral tones underscored the designer’s commitment to subtlety rather than spectacle.
“The collection reflects Hermès’ core philosophy: luxury that speaks through touch and detail, not excess,” said fashion critic Suzy Menkes in a post-show interview with The Business of Fashion.
Material Excellence and Thoughtful Design
The collection featured hallmark Hermès materials, including fine leather and featherweight silks. Bandanas with light fringe and garments with zigzag motifs added texture and movement. Unbuttoned shirts and silver hardware accents offered playful, humanizing details within the otherwise disciplined aesthetic.
According to Vogue Runway, Nichanian’s work this season exemplified how classic tailoring can feel both current and forward-thinking without resorting to fleeting trends.
Context: Industry Instability and Consumer Shifts
Hermès’ focused presentation comes at a time when the fashion industry is experiencing leadership changes and macroeconomic uncertainty. Several rival houses introduced bold, attention-grabbing shows earlier in the week, aiming to capture headlines amid shifting consumer spending patterns.
In contrast, Hermès maintained its signature approach, prioritizing the experience of the wearer over external approval. As Nichanian took her final bow to a standing ovation, the message was clear: the brand remains committed to enduring quality and customer-focused design.
“The collection is a statement of confidence in our values,” a Hermès spokesperson told Women’s Wear Daily following the show.
Looking Ahead
Industry analysts suggest that Hermès’ unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and quiet luxury continues to resonate with a global clientele seeking authenticity over ostentation. As Paris Men’s Fashion Week concludes, the collection stands out as a reminder that in times of uncertainty, consistency and restraint can make the strongest impact.
A Palette of Precision and Subtlety
Nichanian’s color choices remained understated yet deliberate. Shades of coffee, slate, taupe, and beige dominated the collection, each selected to convey a mood of calm luxury and timelessness. The focus on neutral tones underscored the designer’s commitment to subtlety rather than spectacle.
“The collection reflects Hermès’ core philosophy: luxury that speaks through touch and detail, not excess,” said fashion critic Suzy Menkes in a post-show interview with The Business of Fashion.
Material Excellence and Thoughtful Design
The collection featured hallmark Hermès materials, including fine leather and featherweight silks. Bandanas with light fringe and garments with zigzag motifs added texture and movement. Unbuttoned shirts and silver hardware accents offered playful, humanizing details within the otherwise disciplined aesthetic.
According to Vogue Runway, Nichanian’s work this season exemplified how classic tailoring can feel both current and forward-thinking without resorting to fleeting trends.
Context: Industry Instability and Consumer Shifts
Hermès’ focused presentation comes at a time when the fashion industry is experiencing leadership changes and macroeconomic uncertainty. Several rival houses introduced bold, attention-grabbing shows earlier in the week, aiming to capture headlines amid shifting consumer spending patterns.
In contrast, Hermès maintained its signature approach, prioritizing the experience of the wearer over external approval. As Nichanian took her final bow to a standing ovation, the message was clear: the brand remains committed to enduring quality and customer-focused design.
“The collection is a statement of confidence in our values,” a Hermès spokesperson told Women’s Wear Daily following the show.
Looking Ahead
Industry analysts suggest that Hermès’ unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and quiet luxury continues to resonate with a global clientele seeking authenticity over ostentation. As Paris Men’s Fashion Week concludes, the collection stands out as a reminder that in times of uncertainty, consistency and restraint can make the strongest impact.