After a decade at Balenciaga, creative director Demna departs the house to take the helm at Gucci, succeeding Sabato De Sarno
Last month, French luxury conglomerate Kering parted ways with Gucci’s creative director, polarising the fashion world—while some moaned Sarno’s departure, others eagerly anticipated the maison’s next move and the announcement of his successor. The wait was short-lived.
Yesterday, Kering and Gucci announced Demna’s appointment, marking the latest move in fashion’s game of creative director musical chairs. The Balenciaga creative director since 2015 will assume the role of artistic director this July.
“Demna’s contribution to the industry, to Balenciaga, and to the Group’s success has been tremendous. His creative power is exactly what Gucci needs,” professes François-Henri Pinault, chairman & CEO of Kering. “As I thank him for everything he has accomplished over the past 10 years, I look forward to seeing him shape Gucci’s new artistic direction.”
The Georgian fashion designer echoes the excitement, professing, “I am truly excited to join the Gucci family. It is an honour to contribute to a House that I deeply respect and have long admired. I look forward to writing together with Stefano (CEO of Gucci) and the whole team a new chapter of Gucci’s amazing story.”
While Demna’s final couture collection for Balenciaga is set for July, the name of his successor is still up in the air.
