Balenciaga, and parent company Kering, have announced that Pierpaolo Piccioli will officially join Balenciaga as Creative Director, effective July 10, 2025. This appointment marks a new chapter for the Paris-based fashion house, known for its innovative designs and strong heritage.
Mr. Piccioli is a highly respected designer and a master of haute couture, with his last appointment being at Valentino, where he served as the creative director for eight years. He will now bring his creative vision and extensive experience to Balenciaga to honor the legacy of Cristóbal Balenciaga, the founder of the iconic brand.
Francesca Bellettini, Kering Deputy CEO in charge of Brand Development, said, “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. I am convinced that Pierpaolo and Gianfranco will lead Balenciaga perfectly through this important new chapter of its remarkable history.”
Gianfranco Gianangeli, CEO of Balenciaga, said, “I’m excited to begin this new era at Balenciaga with 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. 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.”
Balenciaga was last being steered by Demna Gvasalia, who was recently appointed as creative director of Gucci. Demna’s reign of Balenciaga was exciting where he made the brand popular and a staple in general consciousness. Mr. Piccioli’s designs for Valentino have seen huge acclaim, often hailed for their innovation in fabric manipulation.
Mr. Piccioli said, “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.”
The first collection under Mr. Piccioli’s direction is scheduled to be presented in October 2025, setting the stage for the next phase in Balenciaga’s evolving story.
