Gaultier Officially Out At Hermes

Another fashion world shake-up. WWD has reported that French designer Jean-Paul Gaultier will be leaving his job as the creative director of Hermes' women's ready-to-wear division. Gaultier, who had the job for seven years, was brought in by Jean-Louis Dumas, former president and chief executive officer of Hermes who died earlier this month.

Replacing Gaultier will be Christophe Lemaire, the man lauded for reinvigorating the Lacoste brand. He has served as that company's artistic director since 2001,Businessweek reveals that the spring-summer 2011 collection in October will be the last one created by Gaultier for Hermes. Hermes will retain its 45 percent share in Gaultier's eponymous brand.