Just when we all thought the designer musical chairs were over, last week, Nicolas Di Felice announced his departure from Courrèges after five years at the house. Unlike many previous exits, his replacement has been announced in record time, with Drew Henry taking over as Artistic Director from May.

Under Di Felice, the French house has become a Paris Fashion Week highlight, repositioning the heritage brand in the contemporary landscape. Henry has been appointed to continue this momentum, with his runway debut arriving in Paris this September. After graduating from Central Saint Martins, Henry joined Celine during Phoebe Philo’s era and later returned to work with her on the launch of her eponymous brand. Drew has also held positions as Design Director for ready-to-wear at JW Anderson and Senior Design Director at Burberry under Daniel Lee.

Speaking on his appointment at the house, Henry said: “André Courrèges believed in clothes that make sense for how people live. That matters to me. I have always been drawn to work that feels modern, useful and direct. Joining this iconic French House, I feel a strong responsibility to honour its history while bringing my own perspective. I am grateful to François-Henri Pinault and Marie Leblanc for their trust, and I am excited to shape a vision for the House that is optimistic, clear and grounded.”