Carven poaches Head Designer from Saint Laurent as new Design Director
Luxury French fashion house Carven has appointed Kai Nesselrath as its new Design Director, succeeding Mark Thomas, who departed in April.
Nesselrath joins from Saint Laurent, where he spent almost 10 years designing womenswear, the last 22 months of which were as Head Designer.
Shawna Tao, CEO of Carven, which is part of China’s ICCF Group, said in a statement: “A new generation’s perspective on the world feels especially important today. The essence of Carven is a fresh and courageous creator’s spirit, and we believe Kai is uniquely suited to interpret and express it.”
Nesselrath added: “Excited to join Carven, with lightness and optimism. I love clothes, spaces, and conversations that encourage breathing. It’s an honour to keep Madame Carven’s values alive.”
Nesselrath’s appointment marks an important step in Carven’s continued revival strategy, which was first initiated in 2023.
The designer, who was born and raised in Rome, will present his debut runway collection during Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2027 in October 2026.
Chinese group Icicle took full ownership of Carven in 2018, after the company had gone into liquidation. The group was founded by Ye Shouzeng and his partner, Shawna Tao.
