How does one part ways without a sense of sadness? Add to that years of artistry, friendship, and legacy, and saying goodbye without somberness could seem impossible. But that’s not the case for Véronique Nichanian, who, after 37 years as the artistic director of Hermès menswear, has stepped down from her post, ending what will be one of the longest and most influential tenures in the fashion industry.

It was in 1988 when Véronique became part of the historic French maison. In a time when creative directors shift as quickly as the newest trend cycle, the French designer made a lasting impression by focusing on refined craftsmanship, subtle detail, and timeless elegance.

Her work over the years has been the ultimate testament to her design philosophy: clothes are “made for today and forever,” ignoring spectacle and instead focusing on how a garment works in real life.

“I would like more people to realize that we’re doing not only clothes, but clothes that last a long time,” she told Forbes. “I know exactly where I want to go, and I try to make things more interesting for men each season, proposing a mix of fabrics to them, bringing them new materials.”

That philosophy continued in her final collection for Hermès. Showcased at the Palais Brongniart in France on Jan. 24, 2026, the house’s fall-winter 2026 menswear collection spotlighted classic silhouettes, from silk turtlenecks paired with leather trousers to retro-aviator looks that paid homage to “The Little Prince” writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. But Véronique never shied away from elevating her designs. Her color and texture choices, such as pops of pink-grapefruit color, glossy crocodile leather, patchwork details, and blurred florals, offered subtle yet notable design elements. These mirrored how men dress today: confident but understated, expressive without excess, and grounded in individuality rather than trend-driven display.

Deserving of a second look were the bags the models carried. Boxy overnight bags appeared in shades of sky blue, olive, and brown. But what truly stole the spotlight was the boombox bag, complete with a cassette wallet. Archival pieces also made it to Véronique’s final collection: a pinstriped leather suit from 2003 and a calfskin jumpsuit from 1991 returned to the runway.

By the end of the show, the maison celebrated Véronique’s legacy by playing clips of her bowing and receiving applause after past seasons’ shows. In an interview with WWD, she expressed her gratitude to Hermès for giving her the freedom to design pieces that are best for the Hermès man.

“There is no nostalgia. I’m happy, I’m proud of myself,” Véronique said. “I work very hard and with passion. I made the style of the Hermès man, with simple lines, and I’m honest with myself. I’m straight to the point, and I never change my mind.”