Miguel Castro Freitas takes helm as Mugler’s new creative director

Mugler has officially appointed Miguel Castro Freitas as its new creative director, confirming earlier reports from WWD. The Portuguese designer will take over on 1 April, with his debut collection slated for Paris Fashion Week spring 2026.

Freitas brings experience from Sportmax, Dries Van Noten, and Christian Dior Couture. He replaces Casey Cadwallader, who concluded his seven-year run at Mugler with a futuristic fall 2025 lookbook.

A former dancer and Central Saint Martins graduate, Freitas draws inspiration from the house's late founder, Manfred Thierry Mugler. “It is an honor to join the spectacular house of Mugler,” Freitas said. “I’m thrilled to bring my own vision, story, and emotion to this monumental heritage.”

His appointment marks a new chapter for the Parisian brand as it looks to evolve while honoring its bold legacy.