Haider Ackermann, the renowned designer known for his striking color palettes and sophisticated tailoring, is the new creative director of Tom Ford. In a statement released this morning, Ackermann expressed his admiration for Tom Ford, stating, “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.” This appointment marks a new chapter for the brand, following Tom Ford’s departure in 2023 after selling his eponymous label to The Estée Lauder Companies Inc (ELC).
William P. Lauder, Executive Chairman of ELC, expressed enthusiasm for Ackermann’s arrival, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Haider Ackermann to Tom Ford. Haider’s appointment strengthens our ambitions for this enormously successful brand. His unique and insightful vision will further enhance the house’s global impact on fashion and culture.”
Ackermann, born in Bogotá, Colombia, and adopted by a French family, will be based in his home city of Paris. He will assume responsibility for shaping the entire Tom Ford fashion output, including womenswear, menswear, accessories, and eyewear, and will also guide the creative vision for the brand. The first glimpse of Ackermann’s interpretation of Tom Ford’s iconic codes will be revealed in Paris next March during the Fall-Winter 2025 edition of Paris Fashion Week.
Tom Ford himself has welcomed the news, expressing his admiration for Ackermann’s work: “I have long been a great fan of Haider’s work. I find both his womenswear and menswear equally compelling. He is an incredible colourist, 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 We share many of the same historical references, and I could not be more excited to see what he does with the brand.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.”
Ackermann’s appointment follows the departure of Peter Hawkins, a company veteran who had served as interim creative director after Ford’s exit. Ackermann brings extensive experience to the role, having led his own label for nearly two decades before its closure in 2020. His talent has been recognized by industry giants, with Karl Lagerfeld even suggesting him as a potential successor at Chanel.
The merging of Ackermann’s design sensibility with Tom Ford’s established codes promises an intriguing new direction for the brand. Both designers share a common thread of blending profound sensuality with strict rigour, creating a unique aesthetic that has resonated with audiences worldwide. Ackermann’s expertise in womenswear aligns with the Ermenegildo Zegna Group’s ambition to expand Tom Ford’s womenswear offerings, which currently account for 30% of the brand’s fashion revenue.
Ackermann’s appointment has been met with excitement and anticipation within the fashion industry. His strong ties to Hollywood, particularly his close relationships with Tilda Swinton and Timothée Chalamet, could further enhance the brand’s presence in the entertainment world.
The appointment of Haider Ackermann as creative director marks a new era for Tom Ford, one that blends the brand’s established legacy with the visionary creativity of a new generation of fashion talent. As Ackermann embarks on this new chapter, the fashion world eagerly awaits the unveiling of his interpretation of the Tom Ford brand and the fresh perspective he will bring to the world of luxury fashion.
