In a landmark move for the French fashion house, Jonathan Anderson has been appointed as the sole creative director of Dior. The news was confirmed by Delphine Arnault, chair and CEO of Christian Dior Couture, who shared that Anderson will now oversee all creative directions — including menswear, womenswear, accessories, and haute couture. This unified structure harks back to the days of Christian Dior himself.

Leadership Shake-up at Dior

The announcement follows significant leadership changes at Dior. Kim Jones, formerly overseeing menswear, left the brand in January. Maria Grazia Chiuri, who has led women’s couture and ready-to-wear since 2016, is now stepping down. Anderson, who was already appointed to lead Dior Men in April, now assumes full artistic control.

Arnault emphasised that the consolidation will strengthen the brand’s identity. “There will be consistency and coherence in the products and communication. Our message will be much clearer,” she said.

Anderson’s Proven Track Record at Loewe

Despite being just 40, Anderson brings over a decade of high-level experience within LVMH. He took the reins at Loewe in 2013 and revitalised the brand, transforming it into one of the most exciting names in luxury fashion. Under his leadership, Loewe’s revenue skyrocketed from an estimated €230 million in 2014 to between €1.5 billion and €2 billion by 2024, according to analysts.

His creative vision culminated in a widely praised Spring/Summer 2025 show, which earned a standing ovation from fashion luminaries like Sarah Burton, Pharrell Williams, and Kris Van Assche. The brand also topped the Lyst Index as the hottest fashion label in Q1 2025.

“Jonathan did a very impressive job putting Loewe back on the map,” said Arnault. “He struck a balance between tradition and modernity, elevating the craftsmanship and creating beautiful, innovative products.”

Early Talent Recognised by LVMH

Anderson’s connection with LVMH began early. He launched his eponymous label JW Anderson in 2008, and LVMH took a minority stake in 2013. Arnault recalled meeting him in a modest Paris apartment when he was in his early twenties. “He was young, but already full of vision and maturity. That’s when we decided to invest in his brand,” she said.

Anderson will continue to be involved with JW Anderson, though likely in a more limited role given his new responsibilities. “It’s his namesake brand, so obviously it is a project that is really important to him,” Arnault said.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for Dior

The appointment comes at a crucial time for Dior. After experiencing rapid growth — with revenue rising from €2.2 billion in 2017 to €9.5 billion in 2023 — the brand saw a dip to €8.7 billion in 2024 due to broader economic pressures and a luxury market slowdown. LVMH’s fashion and leather goods division saw a 5% decline in Q1 2025.

“Dior has to be revived,” said analyst Luca Solca earlier this year. To support this goal, Dior has reinforced its executive team, bringing in Pierre-Emmanuel Angeloglou as deputy CEO and former Miu Miu CEO Benedetta Petruzzo as managing director.

A Deep Dive Into Dior’s DNA

As Anderson transitions into his expanded role, he’s already been immersing himself in Dior’s extensive archives. From the groundbreaking work of Christian Dior to the bold reinventions by John Galliano and Raf Simons, Anderson is studying the brand’s history closely to inform his vision.

“He’s been spending a lot of time in the archives looking at all the different elements the previous designers developed,” said Arnault. “He’s totally energised by the challenge.”

Couture Awaits: A First for Anderson

Though Anderson has not previously led a couture house, his conceptual style suggests a natural affinity. His recent collections, especially for Loewe, featured couture-level craftsmanship, including hoop skirts and sheer floral motifs reminiscent of France’s golden age.

His first haute couture show for Dior is set for January 2026, as the house will not present couture in July. “Maria Grazia had 20 couture dresses in her cruise show, which have kept the atelier busy,” Arnault explained.

What Comes Next

Anderson’s Dior menswear debut will take place this June, with his first women’s collection expected in September — a critical season as fashion undergoes a wave of creative changes. Arnault noted the current state of flux in the industry: “In the 25 years I’ve been working in fashion, there have never been so many creative changes. It’s going to bring a lot of emotion and excitement — and that’s what fashion is about.”

For now, Dior’s future rests on Anderson’s shoulders. With a blend of youthful vision, proven commercial success, and deep respect for heritage, all eyes are on his next move.

Written By: Lydia Kelly

Published: 3rd June 2025