Kim Jones replaces Kris Van Assche at Dior Homme
Kris Van Assche has stepped down after 11 years as artistic director of Dior Homme. The designer will be succeeded by Kim Jones, who departed his role as artistic director of menswear at Louis Vuitton in January.
The arrival of Jones at the company marks the first major appointment since the new CEO and chairman of Christian Dior Couture, Pietro Beccari, joined the company from Fendi in February.
"I am deeply honoured to join the house of Dior, a symbol of the ultimate elegance,” said Jones in a statement released via Business of Fashion. “I would like to warmly thank Bernard Arnault and Pietro Beccari for their trust in giving me this incredible opportunity. I am committed to create a modern and innovative male silhouette built upon the unique legacy of the house.”
Jones' first collection for Dior Homme will be unveiled during the Paris menswear shows in June.
During his tenure at Dior Homme, Van Assche was known for his urban, minimalist aesthetic - which he'd previously honed working under Hedi Slimane - and was a favourite among the younger Hollywood crowd.
"After eleven years at Dior Homme, my mind and heart filled with experiences, I am leaving this beautiful house to pursue new challenges," said Van Assche. "I wish to thank Bernard Arnault for the trust he placed in me, Sidney Toledano and Serge Brunschwig for their warm welcome at Dior and their continuous support during all those years."
