Carven Names Kai Nesselrath as New Design Director
French fashion house Carven has announced the appointment of Kai Raffael Nesselrath as its new Design Director, marking a significant chapter in the brand’s ongoing revival. Nesselrath will debut his first collection for the house during Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2027, set to take place this fall.
Born in Italy and of German heritage, Nesselrath brings a strong international perspective to the role. A graduate of Polimoda, he furthered his education at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Roma and completed courses at Central Saint Martins in London. Following a brief tenure at Chanel, he joined Saint Laurent in 2016, where he spent nearly a decade refining his craft and ultimately rose to the position of Head Designer for Womenswear.
Carven CEO Shawna Tao expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, emphasizing the importance of a fresh creative vision for the historic French house.
“We are very pleased to welcome Kai to Carven,” Tao said. “A new generation’s perspective on the world feels especially important today. The essence of Carven is a fresh and courageous creator’s spirit, and we believe Kai is uniquely suited to interpret and express it.”
The appointment represents another key step in Carven’s transformation as the brand continues to reconnect with its founding ideals. The house noted that Nesselrath’s arrival aligns with its ambition to revive the vision established by founder Marie-Louise Carven-Grog in 1945—one rooted in creativity, craftsmanship, inclusivity, and relevance to modern life.
For his part, Nesselrath described his new role as an opportunity approached with “lightness and optimism.”
“I love clothes, spaces, and conversations that encourage breathing,” he said. “It’s an honor to keep Madame Carven’s values alive. I am very grateful to Shawna for her trust and the journey ahead together.”
Founded in postwar Paris by Marie-Louise Carven-Grog, known professionally as Madame Carven, the house became renowned for introducing comfort and freedom into haute couture. Her designs captured the effortless spirit of the era and attracted a loyal following that included celebrated figures such as Leslie Caron, Édith Piaf, and Michèle Morgan.
Throughout its history, Carven has evolved under a number of creative leaders, including Guillaume Henry, Alexis Martial, Adrien Caillaudaud, Barnabé Hardy, Serge Ruffieux, Louise Trotter, and most recently Mark Thomas. Since being acquired by ICCF Group in 2018, the Paris- and Shanghai-based company behind Icicle, Carven has continued its efforts to reestablish itself as a modern force in luxury fashion.
With Nesselrath now at the creative helm, the industry will be watching closely as he prepares to unveil his first vision for Carven on the Paris runway later this year.
Photos Credit: Carven’s Instagram
