French fashion house Carven has appointed Kai Nesselrath as its new Design Director, marking a significant step in the brand’s ongoing revival strategy under the ownership of ICCF Group.
The German designer, who spent the past decade working within the studio of Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent, will unveil his first collection for Carven during Paris Fashion Week in the autumn season.
Nesselrath brings extensive experience from some of the fashion industry’s most influential houses. After studying at Polimoda, the Accademia di Belle Arti di Roma, and Central Saint Martins, he began his career at Chanel, where he worked alongside legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld.
Carven Chief Executive Officer Shawna Tao welcomed the appointment, highlighting the importance of bringing a fresh perspective to the brand at a time of rapid change within the global fashion industry.
Nesselrath will be tasked with continuing Carven’s transformation efforts, which began in 2023, while reinforcing the house’s inclusive and contemporary approach to fashion. His arrival follows the departure of former Design Director Mark Thomas, who left the company in April after serving in the role for one year.
The appointment is the latest chapter in Carven’s ongoing creative evolution. Prior to Thomas, the brand was led by Louise Trotter, who departed in 2024 to join Bottega Veneta as part of a broader wave of leadership changes across the luxury fashion sector.
Owned by ICCF Group, Carven operates from headquarters in Paris and Shanghai and maintains flagship stores in both cities. Industry observers will be closely watching Nesselrath’s debut collection, which is expected to offer insight into the future creative direction of the historic French label as it seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive luxury fashion market.
