Move at fashion house marks breakthrough in white, male-dominated industry

For the first time in its 109-year history, the fashion house Balenciaga is to be led by a woman, with British designer Martine Rose appointed as creative director of the brand.

Her appointment at Balenciaga marks a breakthrough in the white, male-dominated fashion industry. Rose is only the second Black woman to lead a major European house. Her appointment follows Grace Wales Bonner, who in 2025 was announced as the men’s creative director at Hermès.