Chemena Kamali has been appointed as the new creative director of Chloé, following Gabriela Hearst’s departure. Kamali, born in Germany in 1981, started her career at Chloé under Phoebe Philo. After working at Lanvin, she returned to the Maison as the design director to Clare Waight Keller from 2013 to 2016. She then joined Anthony Vaccarello’s team at Saint Laurent as the women’s ready-to-wear design director and has previously worked at the house under Phoebe Philo and Clare Waight Keller.
“My heart has always been Chloé’s,” in a statement released by Richemont for Kamali. “It has been since I stepped through its doors more than 20 years ago. Returning feels natural and very personal. I am extremely honoured 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.”
Riccardo Bellini, President and CEO of the Maison, expressed excitement about Chemena Kamali’s return to Chloé, stating that her vision will celebrate the brand’s unique DNA. Kamali’s appointment as Chloé’s new creative director is significant in the current fashion industry, as Seán McGirr was announced as Sarah Burton’s replacement at Alexander McQueen, solidifying the trend of white, male employees.
