Haider Ackermann Named Creative Director of Tom Ford
Portrait by Ethan James Green
Tom Ford has appointed Haider Ackermann as the new Creative Director, effective today, according to Vogue.
In a statement on Tom Ford's website, Ford shared, “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 We share many of the same historical references, and I could not be more excited to see what he does with the brand.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.”
Ackermann will succeed Peter Hawkings who did a short stint at the brand, showing two collections following Tom Ford's retirement. His first collection as Creative Director will debut at Paris Fashion Week in March 2025. "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," said Ackermann. "I am much looking forward to what lies ahead."
But who is Haider Ackermann if the name is new to you? Here are 7 facts about Tom Ford's new creative director.
Cultural Background: Haider Ackermann was born in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1971. He was adopted by French parents and grew up in various countries, including Ethiopia, Chad, and Algeria, before eventually settling in the Netherlands. (System)
Education: Ackermann studied fashion design at the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Belgium. Although he did not graduate, his time there placed him among the ranks of other influential designers who studied at the academy, such as Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester.
Early Career: Before launching his own label, Ackermann worked as an intern for several well-known designers, including a five-month internship at John Galliano, and worked with Belgian designer Wim Neels. These experiences helped shape his understanding of the fashion industry. (BOF)
Own Label: Haider Ackermann launched his eponymous label in 2001. His debut collection was well-received, and he quickly gained a reputation for his innovative use of materials and his ability to create garments that are both structured and fluid. (Vogue UK)
Signature Style: Ackermann is known for his luxurious, draped silhouettes, rich color palettes, and a distinctive blend of elegance and edginess. His designs often feature asymmetry, intricate layering, and a mix of textures, creating a unique, modern aesthetic.
Work with Major Fashion Houses: In addition to his own label, Ackermann has been sought after by major fashion houses. He was appointed the creative director of Berluti, a French luxury menswear brand, from 2016 to 2018, where he brought his signature style to the brand's menswear collections. (GQ UK)
Celebrity Following: Ackermann's designs have been worn by many high-profile celebrities, including Tilda Swinton, Kanye West, Timothée Chalamet, and Rihanna. His work is particularly admired for its gender-fluid approach to fashion, often blurring the lines between traditional menswear and womenswear.
