Beloved for his viral haute couture collections at Valentino, Pierpaolo Piccioli succeeds Demna as the creative director of Balenciaga
Today, it has been announced that Italian designer Pierpaolo Piccioli will become the new creative director at Balenciaga, a position previously held by Demna, who stepped down in March to become the creative director at Gucci.
In his previous role as creative director at Valentino, Piccioli merged the fantastical with the artisanal, crafting inclusive ready-to-wear and stratospheric, viral haute couture collections that exploded the mundane in vibrant hues, luxurious fabrications and goddess proportions.
Prior to that, he began his career in fashion at Fendi, collaborating with Maria Grazia Chiuri in the accessories department, before the duo joined Valentino in 1999, becoming co-creative directors in 2008. After Chiuri’s departure in 2016, Piccioli led Valentino solo, infusing the brand with a modern sensibility that balanced its rich heritage with contemporary appeal. Highlights included his iconic Pink PP hue, which graced the cover of our Autumn/Winter 2022 issue.
“Cristóbal Balenciaga’s legacy and archive is probably one of the most influential fashion statements of all time,” shared Piccioli in a statement. “He has done everything before everyone; he has literally invented the culture of creativity; he has infused the idea of couture in every aspect of his career, and he has shown, through his creations, the power of evolution and innovation.”
“An accomplished and respected designer, and master of haute couture, Pierpaolo Piccioli will bring his unique creative vision and extensive experience to Balenciaga, building on the strengths and success achieved by the brand over the past decade under Demna’s creative direction, and in continuity with the legacy of Cristóbal Balenciaga and of the historic Parisian house,” Kering added.
For now, the news brings to a close a sea of change across the industry. Picciolo will assume his role at the house on July 10, while the date for his already hotly anticipated debut collection is expected to be in October.
