Mark Thomas Exits Carven After Final Pre-Fall 2026 Collection
In April, Carven revealed that artistic director Mark Thomas would be leaving, yet he made a return via video to unveil his final collection for Pre-Fall 2026. This collection emphasizes transitional attire, featuring jackets and coats that vary from rounded, enveloping styles to masculine double-breasted designs, alongside lighter pieces that blend organza and lace. Luxurious elements include leather skirts that fall below the knee and shearling accents, while fringed knits and coordinated outfits in cedarwood brown provide a sophisticated ease. Thomas portrayed the Carven woman as quintessentially Parisian, highlighting Look 4—a black outfit paired with an off-white foulard. Since Louise Trotter's introduction in 2023 and Thomas's appointment in 2025, the brand has pursued a unique vision. In April, ICCF, the parent company, formed a strategic alliance with Kering, casting doubt on Carven's creative direction. Thomas expressed his appreciation for Madame Shawna Tao and Mr. Shouzeng Ye, acknowledging the brand's revitalized appeal but recognizing a disconnect with its strategic path.
Key facts
- Mark Thomas departed Carven in April 2026.
- Thomas presented his final Pre-Fall 2026 collection via video walkthrough.
- The collection emphasizes transitional dressing with jackets, coats, organza, and lace.
- Key pieces include leather skirts, shearling, fringed knits, and cedarwood brown coordinated sets.
- Thomas described the Carven woman as fundamentally Parisian.
- Design details include denim folded at the waist inspired by an orchid and grey flannel trousers with elasticized ankles.
- Louise Trotter made her Carven debut in 2023; Thomas became artistic director in 2025.
- Parent company ICCF entered a strategic partnership with Kering in April 2026.
- Thomas thanked Madame Shawna Tao and Mr. Shouzeng Ye for the experience.
- Thomas acknowledged misalignment with the brand's future direction.
Entities
Artists
- Mark Thomas
- Louise Trotter
- Guillaume Henry
- Alexis Martial
- Adrien Caillaudaud
- Serge Ruffieux
- Carolyn Bessette Kennedy
Institutions
- Carven
- ICCF
- Icicle
- Kering
- ICCF Group
- Vogue
- Vogue Runway
- Bottega Veneta
- Joseph
- Lacoste
- Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers
Locations
- Paris
- France
- China
Sources
- Vogue Arts —
- Vogue Arts —