Chanel artistic director Virginie Viard is stepping down from her position at the luxury brand, Chanel announced on Thursday, sparking speculation about her successor in one of the fashion industry’s most prestigious roles.
Chanel stated, “A new chapter is opening for Chanel Mode,” confirming the change, which was initially reported by fashion news website Business of Fashion.
The renowned label, famed for its tweed suits, quilted handbags, and No. 5 perfume, revealed that a “new creative organization” would be revealed in due course, expressing gratitude to Viard for her “rich collaboration of five years.”
Viard, 62, had been with Chanel for nearly thirty years, working alongside Karl Lagerfeld, whose position she assumed in 2019 following his passing.
Her departure comes at a time when the industry is grappling with slower growth, and numerous other labels, such as Kering-owned Gucci, are seeking fresh creative direction to reinvigorate sales.
While the post-COVID pandemic boom, fueled by pent-up fashion demand, has slowed down due to consumers spending less as a result of increased living costs.
Chanel’s teams will ensure the “continuity” of collections in the interim period, with the brand set to host its fall-winter haute couture show 2024/2025 on June 25 in Paris.
Chanel Chief Executive Leena Nair had dismissed speculation about a designer change last month, highlighting Viard’s oversight of strong growth in ready-to-wear fashion sales, which have surged two-and-a-half-times since 2018.
Chanel, the world’s second-largest label after LVMH-owned Louis Vuitton, is owned by French billionaire brothers Alain Wertheimer and Gerard Wertheimer.
