A Luminous Finale for Harris Reed at Nina Ricci

After three and a half years of redefining Parisian elegance, Harris Reed announced his departure from Nina Ricci. The British-American designer, who made history as the youngest creative lead at the house when he was appointed at age 26, leaves behind a legacy defined by fluidity and fearless showmanship. This spirit of radical change was evident from his very first collection for Fall 2023. In a historic moment for the maison, the show opened with Precious Lee, marking the first time a Black plus-size model had ever opened a show for the storied French house. This breakthrough set the tone for a tenure that prioritized inclusivity and modern feminine codes over traditional, narrow beauty standards.

His final contribution, the Fall/Winter 2026 collection, recently graced the runways of Paris Fashion Week. It served as a poetic closing statement for his time at the brand, mirroring the same energy and boldness that Harris Reed brought to that debut show years ago.

Since joining the Puig-owned house in late 2022, Harris Reed successfully bridged the gap between heritage and modern identity. He moved away from the traditional constraints of the brand’s archives to introduce a more performative, gender-neutral aesthetic. His collections were characterized by sculptural headpieces, voluminous gowns, and a bold embrace of inclusivity that brought a breath of fresh air to the nearly century-old label.

Under his direction, Nina Ricci became a frequent presence on high-profile red carpets, dressing icons like Beyoncé and Harry Styles. His ability to merge Victorian romanticism with contemporary queer culture ensured that the maison remained relevant in a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.

In a heartfelt statement, Harris Reed expressed profound gratitude to the Nina Ricci team and the Puig group for championing his unconventional voice. He noted that he joined the house as a young graduate and left as a seasoned leader ready to dedicate his full attention to his eponymous label.

The industry now looks toward London, where the Harris Reed namesake brand continues to gain momentum. While Nina Ricci has yet to name a successor, the search begins for a leader who can maintain the creative energy sparked during this historic chapter. The departure of Harris Reed signals not just an end, but a focused beginning for a designer who remains one of the most vital voices in modern fashion.