Chloé names Gabriela Hearst as its new creative director

Chloé has named Uruguay-born, New York-based designer Gabriela Hearst as its new creative director replacing Natacha Ramsay-Levi who has left the Richemont-owned luxury house after nearly four years.

Hearst is the first non-European to hold the post and her appointment marks a new era of sustainable focus at the Paris-based house. 

“I’ve always admired her creative energy and her fondness of exceptional craftsmanship. Her powerful vision for a more sustainable fashion fully embodies the values and commitment which define contemporary Chloé women," said Chloé CEO Riccardo Bellini.

"Gabriela is a visionary lady, and her creative talent will be a major asset in evolving and developing the vision of energetic, inspired femininity that is so dear to our founder. We share the belief that it is our duty to participate actively in shaping an eco-responsible future, and to lead Chloé towards new achievements," Bellini added.

Bellini, a former CEO of Maison Margiela, has made clear he intends to put sustainability at the heart of Chloé's business moving forward and is seeking B Corp certification for he brand's social and environmental performance. He also intends to create an advisory board to hold the company accountable.

Hearst's own label, which is now five years' old, will continue to operate and her first collection for Chloé will be presented next March. She said of her appointment. “I’m grateful for the opportunity of joining such a revered label. I would like to thank Natacha Ramsay-Levi and all the talented designers who have helped shape the committed vision of [Chloé founder] Gaby Aghion.

"I’m looking forward to working with Riccardo Bellini and to helping him fulfil his pledge of creating an ethical, environmentally sustainable company. I’m honoured for being able to perpetuate this vision together with Chloé’s staff, both creatively and ethically," she added.

Ramsay-Levi joined Chloé from Louis Vuitton almost four years ago replacing British designer Clare Waight-Keller who went on to head up Givenchy, a role she has since left.

Chloé was launched by Gaby Aghion in 1952 and many famous designers, including several British women have headed the brand since. Karl Lagerfeld, Martine Sitbon, Stella McCartney, Phoebe Philo, Clare Waight Keller and Natacha Ramsay-Levi have all held the role of creative director.