British designer Mark Thomas is departing his role as design director at Carven at the end of April, the French heritage house announced. The brand, owned by China's ICCF Group, praised his vision for revitalizing its identity. Thomas expressed gratitude to the team and leadership.
Carven stated that Mark Thomas will leave to pursue other opportunities. “His vision and designs have helped to establish the brand’s identity and style, and have positioned Carven firmly back on the fashion stage,” the company said. Thomas replied, “I would like to sincerely thank every person I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the past few years... I am deeply grateful to Madame Shawna Tao and Mr. Ye for the opportunity they gave me. As I look ahead to new adventures, I wish the brand continued success. ” He also paid respect to founder Madame Carven, who established the maison in 1945. Thomas joined Carven in 2023 alongside Louise Trotter, with whom he had collaborated at Joseph and Lacoste. Trotter departed in December 2024 for Bottega Veneta after three seasons, prompting Thomas's promotion to design director in March 2025. His debut Spring/Summer 2026 show at the maison’s headquarters continued their sophisticated style. Before it, Thomas told Vogue, “There’s no need to break what’s starting to work. We just need to build on top of that.” His second show at Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers drew praise from Vogue Runway’s Amy Verner as “excellent” and more assured, highlighting tank dresses and utilitarian coats reminiscent of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s style. Carven has faced challenges, including bankruptcy in early 2018 and acquisition by what is now ICCF Group. Previous directors include Guillaume Henry until 2014 and Serge Ruffieux, who left in 2018. The house said next steps and its SS27 show will be announced later this year.
