Balenciaga just dropped the name of its new creative director, and it’s Pierpaolo Piccioli. Kering announced today that the former Valentino designer will be succeeding Demna from July 10.
“In all its phases, while constantly evolving and changing, Balenciaga has never lost track of the House’s aesthetic values,” Piccioli said. “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 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.”
The fashion industry has been on the edge of its seat, waiting on who’s going to fill Demna’s chair, after his appointment as CD at Gucci back in March 2025. Piccioli’s new role at Balenci comes over a year after the designer stepped down from Valentino. The skilled designer (both in ready-to-wear and couture) will be taking over right after Demna’s last couture show at Balenciaga.
Pierpaolo’s first collection will be shown in October for SS26. His aesthetic is very different from Demna’s, so we’re interested to see what his take on Balenciaga will look like.
Featured image Balenciaga©
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