Courrèges shifts gears: drew henry to chart fashion's next chapter

A seismic shift is underway at Courrèges. Drew Henry, the 38-year-old South African designer, is set to take the helm as artistic director, signaling a significant moment for the iconic French house and a potential ripple effect across the luxury sector. His arrival, slated for May 2026, follows the departure of Nicolas di Felice, a move that surprised many after a period of renewed momentum for the brand.

The phoebe philo effect: a breeding ground for talent

Henry’s appointment isn’t occurring in a vacuum. It underscores the enduring influence of Phoebe Philo, whose Céline studio has become a veritable design incubator. Names like Daniel Lee, Matthieu Blazy, and Michael Rider all honed their craft under Philo’s guidance, a testament to her ability to identify and nurture exceptional talent. Henry’s own career trajectory is inextricably linked to Philo, beginning as an intern at Céline during his Central Saint Martins studies and later as a full member of her design team. A detour at JW Anderson, and then a return to Philo’s orbit for the launch of her eponymous brand, further solidified his standing within the industry’s elite circle.

François-Henri Pinault, Chairman of Artémis—the holding company controlling Courrèges through its ownership of Kering—lauded Henry’s “clear point of view” and “understanding of today’s fashion landscape.” But what does that actually mean for Courrèges? The brand, founded in 1961 by André and Coqueline Courrèges, has struggled with consistency in recent years. Di Felice had managed to recapture some of that original spark, blending the house’s signature futuristic aesthetic with a contemporary sensibility. The challenge for Henry will be to build on that foundation while forging his own distinct vision.

Beyond heritage: a focus on modern utility

Marie Leblanc, Courrèges’ CEO, emphasized the importance of Henry's