Summary
- Pierpaolo Piccioli has been named Balenciaga’s new creative director.
- The former Valentino designer will begin his new role on July 10.
- Piccioli’s first collection for the brand will be revealed in October.
After several weeks of buzz and conjecture, it has now been confirmed that Pierpaolo Piccioli is taking over as Balenciaga’s creative director. Previously working at Valentino, Piccioli will start his new position on July 10th, with his debut collection for the Kering-owned company being unveiled in October.
Piccioli commented, “Balenciaga is where it is today because of everyone who’s come before. Throughout all its transitions, it’s remained true to its core design principles while continually reinventing itself. The brand I’m inheriting is an exciting canvas with endless potential.
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Last year in March, Piccioli parted ways with Valentino, a position he held at the renowned Italian fashion house for 25 years. This separation was a mutual understanding between him and the brand that had occurred prior to the announcement. Therefore, the Fall 2024 collection, which was displayed during Paris Fashion Week in February of the same year, served as Piccioli’s last work for Valentino.
Demna is set to pass the leadership of Balenciaga to someone else this July, after presenting his last couture collection for the brand. Regardless of personal opinions, Demna significantly elevated Balenciaga to one of the most sought-after brands in today’s market. He is renowned for his extraordinary fashion week presentations – from simulated snowstorms and mud baths to dystopian stock exchanges – as well as the innovative clothing lines, star-studded front rows, and buzzworthy shows that were frequently the highlight of any fashion week.
Piccioli is renowned for his groundbreaking couture, his unique color choices like Valentino Pink, which was extremely popular, and his talent at blending classic designs with contemporary styles. His work carries a distinct romantic atmosphere reminiscent of Cristóbal Balenciaga’s. However, Piccioli’s interpretation of the Balenciaga brand will be significantly different from Demna Gvasalia’s.
Initially, I’d like to express my deep gratitude to Demna. His talent and creativity have always impressed me. I couldn’t hope for a more suitable handover. This opportunity allows me to redefine the House, contributing a fresh chapter with a new narrative.
Balenciaga CEO Gianfranco Gianangeli expressed his enthusiasm about a fresh chapter in the brand’s history. He believes that Pierpaolo’s creative flair will flourish, enabling him to skillfully embody the legacy of Cristóbal Balenciaga. This will be achieved by reinforcing the House’s daring creativity, deep roots, and strong identity.
As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but echo the sentiments of Kering Deputy CEO, Francesca Bellettini. She affirmed that I, Pierpaolo, am among today’s most gifted and acclaimed designers. My extraordinary skills in Haute Couture, my unique creative expression, and my unwavering dedication to craftsmanship make me the perfect fit for this esteemed House.
With exceptional design skills that have caused a cultural shift, numerous prominent supporters, and a devoted fanbase, Piccioli stands ready to excel in his new role as the head of the House. Exactly what Piccioli’s Balenciaga will look like is yet to be determined, but keep an eye out for his debut, scheduled for October.
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2025-05-19 19:56