On May 27, American fashion brand Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) announced the appointment of New York-based designer Henry Zankov as its new Artistic Director. The role marks the first time in the brand’s 54-year history that the position has been established.
Summary
- Diane von Furstenberg appoints Henry Zankov as the brand’s first-ever Artistic Director
- Zankov will oversee the brand’s full creative vision, from collections to overall visual identity
- Zankov previously served as Design Director of Knitwear at DVF
- The success of the “DVF x Henry Zankov” capsule collection in Fall 2025 helped lead to the appointment
- Zankov’s first full collection for DVF is set to debut at New York Fashion Week in September 2026
The announcement was made by CEO Graziano de Boni. In his new role, Zankov will oversee not only the collections, but also the brand’s overall visual identity and creative direction.
Zankov, who won the CFDA American Emerging Designer of the Year award in 2024, will continue to lead his own label, Zankov. Prior to launching his namesake brand, he spent approximately four years at DVF as Design Director of Knitwear.
The “DVF x Henry Zankov” capsule collection released in Fall 2025 received strong acclaim after launching at Bergdorf Goodman and DVF boutiques. The collaboration is now seen as a key precursor to this new chapter for the brand.
Commenting on his appointment, Zankov stated: “I have always been surrounded and inspired by strong women, and Diane is the ultimate embodiment of that. The DVF woman is a rebel — confident, curious, and independent. It is an honor to build on Diane’s extraordinary legacy and carry the brand into the future.”
In recent years, DVF has been actively restructuring the business. In 2025, the company brought operations back in-house from its Chinese licensee, aiming to reclaim the brand’s identity and redefine its creative direction. The brand has also been working to rebuild its global presence and expand its department store distribution network.
Speaking about the appointment, de Boni explained: “Bringing the business back in-house in 2025 was a deliberate move to reclaim the identity and value of the brand.”
He added: “Henry brings fresh energy, a distinct point of view, and cultural relevance for a new generation to discover DVF.”
Founder and owner Diane von Furstenberg also voiced her support for the new direction.
“I applaud Graziano’s vision. I am excited to watch Henry’s designs, sense of color, and effortless sensibility seduce a new generation.”
DVF, which rose to global prominence in the 1970s with its iconic wrap dress, continues to be recognized as a symbol of female empowerment and independence. Zankov’s appointment signals a pivotal moment for the house as it seeks to preserve its heritage while reconnecting with a new generation of consumers.
Zankov’s first full collection for DVF is scheduled to debut during New York Fashion Week in September 2026.
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