To start the fashion season with the right food Tom Ford has begun with what is going to be one of the most announcement-filled months in recent times. The chosen name to take on his legacy and occupy the chair Peter Hawkings left empty some time ago is none other than Bogota-born French designer Haider Ackermann. Haider can be considered one of the few figures that unite the fashion industry who share the common opinion of him being one of the greatest creatives of our time, who seemingly only know how to produce highly interesting garments with impeccable techniques no matter the role, brand, or collection he’s working in. One of the sexiest brands has chosen one of the best creative directors to lead them; the result can only be greatness.
As a welcome gift to all of us who are slowly coming back to our senses after trying to disconnect during summer without thinking too much about the chaotic fashion month that's upon us, Tom Ford took to his socials to make an announcement that everyone was waiting for, even if we forgot we were—shoutout to all the creative directors leaving the brands, making us lose track of who’s in where. As always, eyes go first to the picture and then the text, and when seeing the familiar face of the beloved Haider Ackermann under the @tomford username, a loud “Well, yes!” could be heard coming from the mouths of all fashion enthusiasts who know how this is one of the best and most promising matches between brand and creative director we have seen in a long time.
Educated in the Royal Academy of Fine Art in Antwerp, having worked with John Galliano and being in charge in the past not only of his homonymous brand but also of LVMH’s Berluti for three seasons, Canada Goose as their first ever creative director, and more notoriously and recently Jean Paul Gaultier's haute couture collection as the guest designer for Spring/Summer 2023, his career has been as consistent as it has been successful. One of the most desired names for high-end brands that understands the value of his vision and his unique ability to handle equally well the delicacy of a draped or the sharpness of a suit, Tom Ford has won the race, and the admiration goes both ways.
“I have long been a great fan of Haider’s work. I find both his womenswear and menswear equally compelling. He is an incredible colorist, his tailoring is sharp, and above all he is modern. We share many of the same historical references, and I could not be more excited to see what he does with the brand. I suspect that I will be the first on my feet to applaud after his show in March,” said Tom, announcing Ackermann’s debut will take place during Paris Fashion Week in March 2025. On his side, Haider shared, “It is with tremendous pride that I will seek to honor the legacy of Tom Ford, a man I have long admired and have the utmost respect for, I am much looking forward to what lies ahead.” And so are we.