Benoit Meleard

Benoit Meleard is a Professor of Accessory Design at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) since 2024. Previously, he held leadership roles including Creative Director at Herbert Levine (2020-22), Designer at Les Eaux PR/Mord/Ales (2021-24), and Founder/Owner of GDB (2020-24). His career spans over 30 years in fashion design, with notable positions at Alexander McQueen, Swatch, Diesel, and Robert Clergerie.

• Recipient of prestigious awards: ANDAM French Fashion Award (1998), City Hall of Paris Best Designer (2002)
• Active in curating avant-garde exhibitions globally, including major shows at the Victoria & Albert Museum (2014), Bata Shoe Museum (2021-23), and Louvre-affiliated institutions

Research interests focus on pushing boundaries of accessory design through interdisciplinary art-fashion collaborations, with emphasis on sustainable materials and LGBTQIA+ representation. Has contributed to over 30 international exhibitions since 2000, emphasizing footwear innovation and conceptualwear.

Professional milestones include co-founding Studio Benoit Meleard (2012-16), creating iconic designs for high-profile brands, and serving on prestigious jury panels for ESMOD Paris and Atelier Chardon-Savary.