The Kering-owned brand with French roots has been without a creative director since it was revealed designer Demna Gvasalia, who goes by the name Demna professionally, would be moving over to take up the top design role at Gucci. The designer, who also founded the label Vetements, has been at Balenciaga since 2015.
Now, it has been revealed former Valentino designer Pierpaolo Piccioli is to join Balenciaga as its new creative director. In announcement the label said Piccioli would begin in the role from July 10, with his first collection being unveiled this October.
Pierpaolo Piccioli was the creative director of Valentino from 2008 to 2024, jointly with Maria Grazia Chiuri from 2008 to 2016. With extensive luxury experience, The Italian designer is well placed to draw on the legacy of founder Cristóbal Balenciaga, as well as extend the edgy-cool the brand has been known for in recent years. The Italian designer has forged professional relationships with many celebrities, his gowns regularly appearing on red carpets at big Hollywood and fashion events.
“Balenciaga is what it is today thanks to all the people who have paved the way,” Piccioli said in a statement as part of the role announcement.
“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.”
The designer thanked predecessor Demna, saying he had 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.”
Piccioli described Cristóbal Balenciaga’s legacy and archive as ‘one of the most influential fashion statements of all time’. “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.”
Balenciaga was founded by Spanish-born Balenciaga in 1917 and established in Paris in 1937. Its current collections include men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, accessories, and objets d’art.
