Yesterday, MAC Cosmetics has announced the appointment of Nicola Formichetti as its new Global Creative Director, effective May 19. A well-known figure in the fashion and beauty industries, Formichetti brings a wealth of experience and a globally attuned perspective to the role. He will report directly to Aïda Moudachirou-Rébois, MAC’s Senior Vice President and General Manager.
Formichetti is no stranger to the brand, having previously collaborated on the MAC Viva Glam campaign and his Nicopanda collection. “MAC is an iconic brand that has always championed the people and communities that move culture forward,” he said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to return and bring my vision to this next chapter. The world is craving creativity, beauty, and connection — and I can’t wait to help bring that to life in a magical way.”
With a career spanning influential roles at V Magazine, Diesel, Mugler, and Uniqlo, and memorable creative milestones like Lady Gaga’s iconic meat dress, Formichetti has consistently pushed the boundaries of fashion and cultural expression.
In his new role, Formichetti will oversee the strategy, conceptualization, and execution of MAC’s creative vision across all brand touchpoints — from campaigns and product packaging to social media and immersive retail experiences. “Nicola will play a central role in reimagining what artistry means and how creative expression connects us with the next generation of consumers,” said Moudachirou-Rébois in an internal memo.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for MAC, as the brand works to regain momentum following a decline in makeup net sales and a drop in youth appeal, as seen in recent surveys. However, recent product launches such as the Nudes collection and MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick hint at a renewed drive for trend-forward innovation.
Jane Hertzmark Hudis, Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer at Estée Lauder Cos., called the appointment “a bold step forward” for both MAC and the company. Estée Lauder CEO Stéphane de La Faverie echoed that sentiment, noting that Formichetti’s hire is aligned with the company’s “Beauty Reimagined” vision, which aims to become the most consumer-centric prestige beauty company in the world.
