Christian Dior Welcomes Michela Kalb Back as Director of Haute Couture and Ready-to-Wear
Published: September 11, 2025
In a significant move that underscores its commitment to luxury and innovation, Christian Dior, the iconic French fashion house under the LVMH Group, has announced the return of Michela Kalb. This appointment comes as the brand seeks to bolster its creative leadership under the guidance of Creative Director Jonathan Anderson. Kalb, who previously made her mark at Dior during a decade-long tenure, will now oversee haute couture, women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, women’s shoes, and baby collections.
A Return to Roots
Michela Kalb’s journey in the fashion industry is both impressive and inspiring. Born in Sardinia, Italy, she began her career in 1993 at La Rinascente, a prominent Italian department store, where she managed women’s ready-to-wear purchasing. Her early experiences laid a solid foundation for her future roles in the luxury sector. In 1999, she joined Prada, where she quickly ascended from assistant merchandiser to merchandising manager for both Prada and Miu Miu.
Kalb’s move to Paris marked a pivotal moment in her career. She joined the LVMH Group in 2006, taking on the role of director of women’s ready-to-wear at Christian Dior. Her tenure at Dior lasted until 2017, after which she transitioned to Louis Vuitton, where she continued to excel in the same capacity. Her extensive experience in both brands has equipped her with a unique understanding of the luxury market, making her a valuable asset to Dior once again.
Strategic Timing
Kalb’s new role is set to commence on October 1, coinciding with the unveiling of Jonathan Anderson’s debut women’s ready-to-wear collection at Paris Fashion Week. This timing is strategic, as it allows Kalb to immediately influence the direction of the collections and ensure a seamless integration of her vision with Anderson’s creative direction. As the de facto right-hand woman to Anderson, she will coordinate all aspects of the house’s collections, from conception to retail.
Delphine Arnault, CEO of Christian Dior, expressed her enthusiasm about Kalb’s return, stating, “I’m delighted that Michela and Dior’s paths are crossing again. I am convinced that she will draw on her vision and knowledge of the house, as well as her extensive product expertise, to develop ever more desirable collections in close collaboration with the creative direction.” This sentiment reflects the high expectations placed on Kalb as she steps into her new role.
The Evolution of Dior
Christian Dior has a storied history that dates back to its founding in 1946. The brand revolutionized women’s fashion with the introduction of the “New Look” in 1947, characterized by its cinched waists and voluminous skirts. This innovative approach not only redefined femininity in fashion but also established Dior as a leader in haute couture.
Over the decades, Dior has continued to evolve, adapting to changing consumer preferences while maintaining its commitment to craftsmanship and luxury. The appointment of Jonathan Anderson as Creative Director in 2021 marked a new chapter for the brand, as he brought a fresh perspective and a modern sensibility to the house. Anderson’s vision aligns with the current trends in fashion, emphasizing sustainability and inclusivity, which are increasingly important to today’s consumers.
The Role of Women in Fashion Leadership
Michela Kalb’s return to Dior also highlights the growing influence of women in leadership roles within the fashion industry. Historically, the fashion world has been dominated by male designers, but recent years have seen a shift towards greater gender diversity in creative positions. Women like Kalb are breaking barriers and proving that they can lead with vision and expertise.
This trend is not only beneficial for the brands but also for the industry as a whole. Diverse leadership teams are known to foster innovation and creativity, which are essential for staying relevant in a rapidly changing market. Kalb’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the luxury sector position her well to contribute to Dior’s ongoing success.
Looking Ahead
As Kalb prepares to take on her new responsibilities, the fashion world is watching closely. The upcoming Paris Fashion Week will serve as a critical moment for both her and Anderson, as they unveil their collaborative vision for the future of Dior. The anticipation surrounding this collection is palpable, as it represents not only a new direction for the brand but also a celebration of its rich heritage.
In a landscape where consumer preferences are shifting towards sustainability and ethical practices, Dior’s leadership is tasked with navigating these challenges while remaining true to the brand’s legacy. Kalb’s expertise in ready-to-wear and her understanding of the luxury market will be instrumental in achieving this balance.
Conclusion
Michela Kalb’s return to Christian Dior as the director of haute couture and ready-to-wear marks a significant moment in the brand’s history. With her extensive background and deep-rooted connection to the house, she is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Dior. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, the collaboration between Kalb and Jonathan Anderson promises to bring fresh perspectives and innovative designs to one of the most prestigious names in luxury fashion. The upcoming Paris Fashion Week will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment, setting the stage for what lies ahead for Christian Dior.
