Demna Departs, Pierpaolo Takes Over—A New Chapter for Balenciaga Begins Now
The ongoing rearrangement of creative directors in the fashion industry continues with a notable development: Pierpaolo Piccioli has stepped into the role of creative director at Balenciaga, following Demna's unexpected exit to lead Gucci. Piccioli, recognized for breathing new life into couture at Valentino through his lyrical silhouettes and profound respect for craftsmanship, signifies a distinct departure from Demna's bold, dystopian style. While Balenciaga has established itself in recent years with oversized streetwear and avant-garde designs, Piccioli brings a sense of subtle beauty and intentional sophistication. Expect architectural tailoring, softer silhouettes, and a shift away from logo-centric fashion towards creations that convey luxury through craftsmanship rather than brand names. Although his aesthetic differs significantly from Balenciaga's past identity, Piccioli's grasp of form and silhouette echoes the character of the house during Cristóbal's era.
Francesca Bellettini, Kering's Deputy CEO in charge of brand development, shed light on her choice to elevate Piccioli as the creative leader, stating, "He is one of the most talented and celebrated designers of today. His mastery of Haute Couture, his creative voice, and his passion for savoir-faire made him the ideal choice for the House."
Regarding his views, Piccioli remarked, "Balenciaga is what it is today thanks to all the people who have paved the way. In all its phases, while constantly evolving and changing, it has never lost track of the House’s aesthetic values. What I am inheriting is a brand full of possibilities that is incredibly captivating. I must first and foremost thank Demna; I have always admired his talent and vision. I couldn’t ask for a better passing of the torch."
It’s evident that Piccioli's Balenciaga will not attempt to replicate Demna's style. Instead, it will pursue a more reflective and sophisticated vision—an evolution that will reshape the notion of "cool" by 2025. The debut collection for Balenciaga under Pierpaolo Piccioli's creative direction is set to be revealed in October 2025.
The Highlights of Pierpaolo Piccioli's Valentino:
Valentino F/W 24 Ready-to-Wear
Valentino F/W 23 Haute Couture
Valentino F/W 22 Ready-to-Wear
Valentino S/S 22 Haute Couture
Valentino S/S 21 Haute Couture
Valentino S/S 19 Menswear
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Demna Departs, Pierpaolo Takes Over—A New Chapter for Balenciaga Begins Now
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