Pierpaolo Piccioli Is The New Creative Director Of Balenciaga
The Italian designer will take the helm of the maison this summer.
Pierpaolo Piccioli, the Italian designer responsible for Valentino's creative language for the past 25 years, has been announced as the new creative director of Balenciaga.
In news shared this morning, the French couture house has appointed Piccioli, who will take the helm of Balenciaga this July, following Demna's departure for Gucci. As a master couturier, Piccioli's experience will be well suited to the house, albeit a far departure from Demna's signature subversive silhouettes, which the Georgian designer is now taking to Gucci. Under Piccioli's direction, we can expect an emphasis on couture, and likely a return to Cristóbal Balenciaga's codes.
In a statement, Piccioli shared: “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 receiving is a brand full of possibilities that is incredibly fascinating. I must first and foremost thank Demna; I’ve always admired his talent and vision. I couldn’t ask for a better passing of the torch. This gives me the chance to shape a new version of the Maison, adding another chapter with a new story. I am grateful for the trust that François-Henri, Francesca and Gianfranco are giving me. We were effortlessly on the same page from the start, and that is the best way to begin something new.”
Francesca Bellettini, Kering's Deputy CEO in charge of brand development, thanked Demna for his contribution to the house and shared this statement with the press: “I couldn’t be happier to welcome Pierpaolo to the Group. 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."
Gianfranco Gianangeli, Balenciaga's CEO, also echoed her sentiments about Pierpaolo. “His creative vision will thrive, and he will perfectly interpret the legacy of Cristóbal Balenciaga, building on the House’s bold creativity, rich heritage and strong culture," he says. "With the expertise of our teams and the dynamic creative energy that has historically driven Balenciaga, I look forward to what we will build together."
The shift comes amid plenty of speculation around who would be equipped to fill Demna's role at the house, and Piccioli's appointment is one that makes plenty of sense, given his skill and experience with couture. As the designer musical chairs continues, it feels as though things are beginning to settle down as the puzzle pieces begin to fall into place.
But what will Piccioli's appointment mean for the loyal Balenciaga customer? Will they stay for his vision or follow Demna to Gucci? After all, if Michele's Gucci customer has followed him to Valentino, it would only make sense that Piccioli's Valentino loyalists may transfer over to Balenciaga, too, wrapping it all in a neat, symbiotic bow. As far as design goes, we can expect an emphasis on feminine silhouettes, and likely a more thorough work-in of Cristóbal's original silhouettes within the brand's ready-to-wear offering, as well as couture.
Piccioli will debut his first collection for Balenciaga in October 2025 during Paris Fashion Week.
