Nadège Vanhee: The Quiet Force Behind Hermès
Nadège Vanhee, the creative director of women’s ready-to-wear at Hermès, may not be a household name, but her influence in the fashion industry is undeniable. Despite her leading role in one of the most exclusive luxury brands, she remains humble and down-to-earth, as demonstrated by her recent arrival at the Hermès offices in Paris.
Arriving on foot, five minutes late due to a detour to the ATM for cash, Nadège exudes a casual elegance in jeans and a white t-shirt. Her lack of social media presence and aversion to the limelight make her a rare find in the fashion world, but her talent and vision speak for themselves.
With a background that includes training at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp and mentorship under renowned designers like Martin Margiela, Nadège brings a unique perspective to her work at Hermès. Her 10-year tenure as creative director has been marked by a dedication to honoring the brand’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of traditional luxury.
Known for her attention to detail and passion for craftsmanship, Nadège believes that fashion should be both functional and pleasurable. She eschews trends and visual tricks in favor of creating pieces that become a part of the wearer’s identity.
As one of the few female creative directors at a major luxury brand, Nadège is aware of the challenges that women face in the industry but remains focused on her work. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “We women don’t have to justify ourselves, we have to do things.” And that’s exactly what Nadège Vanhee continues to do at Hermès, quietly shaping the future of fashion with her timeless creations.
