Chloé, the renowned French fashion house, has recently made an exciting announcement regarding its new creative director. Chemena Kamali will be taking over the position from Gabriela Hearst, who recently showcased her final collection for the brand. While Kamali may not have the same level of recognition in the fashion industry as Hearst, she brings a wealth of experience and an impressive resume to the table.
Born in Germany in 1981, Kamali first entered the world of fashion as part of Phoebe Philo’s team at Chloé. From there, she went on to become the design director for Clare Waight Keller in 2013. Most recently, she held the position of women’s ready-to-wear design director for Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent. With her extensive background in the industry, Kamali’s return to Chloé feels like a natural and personal choice for her.
Kamali is scheduled to present her first pre-collection for Chloé in January 2024 during Paris Fashion Week. This will be followed by her Fall/Winter 2024 collection, which will also be showcased in Paris. Chloé, founded in 1952 by Gaby Aghion, has a long-standing reputation in the fashion world, thanks in part to the talented designers who have served as its creative directors over the years, including Karl Lagerfeld, Martine Sitbon, and Stella McCartney.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Kamali said, “I am extremely honored to be taking on this role and to be building on the vision that Gaby Aghion and Karl Lagerfeld defined early in the Maison’s history. I hope to capture the emotional connection and spirit of Chloé for today.” Kamali’s personal connection to the brand stretches back to her time as a student at Central Saint Martin’s University of the Arts in London, where she studied under renowned Professor Louise Wilson. Her commitment and talent in the field of fashion were evident when she graduated with distinction in 2007.
Riccardo Bellini, president and CEO of Chloé, expressed his enthusiasm for Kamali’s appointment, stating, “I am proud to welcome Chemena Kamali to Chloé. Her extraordinary creative talent, extensive experience, and unique connection with the brand’s legacy and values make her a natural choice for the Maison. Chemena’s vision, inspired by her love for the brand, will truly celebrate Chloé’s unique DNA.”
The appointment of Chemena Kamali as Chloé’s new creative director marks a significant moment for both Kamali and the brand. Chloé, a part of the Richemont portfolio since 1985, is known for its luxury offerings in fashion and accessories. Joining other prestigious brands under Richemont, such as Alaïa, AZ Factory, and Dunhill, Chloé strengthens the portfolio’s reputation. Richemont is primarily recognized for its watch and jewelry labels, including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and more.
Philippe Fortunato, CEO of the Fashion and Accessories division at Richemont, emphasized the importance of Kamali’s return to Chloé, stating, “Chloé is an important and much-loved part of Richemont. Chemena Kamali’s return is an exciting new chapter for the Maison given her passion for the brand’s heritage and her strong connection to Chloé.”
With Chemena Kamali taking the helm, Chloé is poised to continue its legacy as a fashion powerhouse. Combining Kamali’s creative talent with the brand’s rich heritage, Chloé aims to create collections that capture the essence of the brand for a new era in fashion.
Useful links:
1. Chloé Heritage
2. Richemont Official Website
