Henry Zankov Appointed Artistic Director of Diane von Furstenberg
Diane von Furstenberg is officially entering a new creative chapter with the appointment of Henry Zankov as the brand’s first-ever artistic director.
Following the success of the DVF x Henry Zankov capsule collection released last fall, the designer will now oversee the house’s overall creative direction, including collections and visual identity. Zankov’s debut collection for the brand is scheduled to be unveiled during New York Fashion Week this September, marking the beginning of the Spring 2027 season.
Nathan Jenden, who rejoined DVF in January 2024, will remain creative director and report directly to Zankov.
Known for his vibrant use of color, rich textures, relaxed silhouettes, and playful sensibility, Zankov plans to continue leading his namesake ready-to-wear label alongside his new position at DVF. Before launching his own brand in 2020, the Russian-born American designer spent four years at Diane von Furstenberg as design director of knitwear.
“DVF is a brand with an incredible founder and visual vocabulary. I am excited to expand and evolve its heritage,” Zankov shared with WWD.
“I have always been surrounded and inspired by strong women, and Diane is the ultimate embodiment of that,” he added. “The DVF woman is a rebel — confident, curious and independent. It is an honor and privilege for me to build on Diane’s legacy and to carry the brand into the future.”
The designer’s relationship with DVF was reignited through the launch of the DVF x Henry Zankov capsule collection last September, which debuted at Bergdorf Goodman, DVF boutiques, and online. The collection reportedly performed exceptionally well, featuring sequined mesh dresses, fringe knitwear, merino wool and cashmere pieces, and bold prints including paisley, polka dots, and batik-inspired motifs. Elevated materials such as silk, chiffon, metallic Japanese Lurex, satin, and embellished cashmere highlighted the collection’s luxurious direction.
Long, fluid silhouettes and subtle wrap-inspired tailoring referenced DVF’s iconic heritage while introducing Zankov’s modern approach.
According to DVF global chief executive officer Graziano de Boni, Zankov will lead the design team while also shaping the brand’s broader image and storytelling. The executive noted that the company has recently rebuilt its wholesale distribution strategy after years away from department stores, returning to retailers including Bergdorf Goodman, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, KaDeWe, Breuninger, and El Corte Inglés.
De Boni emphasized that the Diane von Furstenberg name will remain central to the brand moving forward.
“It will always be such,” he said. “You don’t want to mess up with a greatness that has been built there.”
He also explained that the company’s long-term strategy is focused on preserving Diane von Furstenberg’s legacy while strengthening the business for the future. Unlike many fashion houses, DVF remains fully owned by Diane von Furstenberg and her family, operating without outside investors.
In a separate interview, Diane von Furstenberg credited de Boni for championing Zankov’s appointment, noting the positive reception to his capsule collection and the fresh creative energy he brought to the brand.
Photos Caredit: Hunter Abrams via DVF
