Virginie Viard steps down from Chanel, creating a vacancy at the top of the fashion industry.
The designer accepted the role of artistic director at Chanel after Karl Lagerfeld's passing in 2019, working with him for decades. She took over one of the most prestigious and exclusive jobs in fashion, becoming the only other person aside from Lagerfeld and Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel herself to hold this title at the legendary brand.
Chanel officially announced Viard's departure in a statement to CNN, praising her tenure by stating, "During her time at the helm, she renewed the codes of the house while respecting Chanel's creative heritage." No replacement has been named, but an announcement is expected "in due course."
The fashion powerhouse thanked Viard for her "remarkable contribution to Chanel's fashion, creativity, and vitality." Earlier this year, Chanel's CEO, Leena Nair, praised Viard's impact, claiming that since she took over from Lagerfeld, the fashion business has seen a 2.2 increase, while the ready-to-wear business boomed by 2.5. Chanel's earnings experienced a 16% rise in 2023 to reach $19.7 billion.
Karl Lagerfeld's death in 2019 shocked the fashion world, as he simultaneously worked with Fendi and his own label. Nonetheless, people will remember him best for his iconic work at Chanel.
Viard, who began her career as an intern at Chanel in 1987, eventually became Lagerfeld's trusted collaborator for decades. Lagerfeld referred to Viard as "my right arm and my left arm." Her appointment in 2019, although expected, was designed to ensure Lagerfeld's and Coco Chanel's legacies continued.
With such influential personalities leaving their roles, there's significant interest in who will fill the vacancy this time.
Recent months have witnessed various changes in the industry: in March, Pierpaolo Piccioli parted ways with Valentino after eight years and Alessandro Michele (from Gucci) replaced him. Last September, Sarah Burton left Alexander McQueen.
It is speculated that Chanel's runway show in June will mark Viard's last collection for the label.
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In light of Viard's departure, there's a buzz about who will bring their unique fashion style and vision to fill the vacancy at Chanel.Given her exceptional impact on Chanel's fashion growth, it's no surprise that designers with a strong fashion sense and personal style are eyed as potential successors.
