Pierpaolo Piccioli named creative director of Balenciaga

The former Valentino visionary takes the reins after Demna’s exit, promising to write a new chapter for the iconic maison

Italian fashion designer Pierpaolo Piccioli smiles in a white suit and sunglasses as he poses on the red carpet at The Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris on 25 July 2024, ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Italian fashion designer Pierpaolo Piccioli poses on the red carpet as he arrives for 'The Prelude to the Olympics' at The Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris on 25 July 2024, ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP

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20 May 2025, 01:07

Paris, France — Celebrated Italian designer Pierpaolo Piccioli has been named the new creative director of Balenciaga, luxury group Kering announced on Monday, ushering in a fresh era at the famed French fashion house.

Piccioli’s appointment, effective 10 July, follows the departure of Demna, who led Balenciaga through a decade of both acclaim and controversy. Demna is set to show his final collection for the brand during couture week in July before officially transitioning to Gucci, also owned by Kering.

Known for his romantic, refined vision at Valentino, where he served for 25 years — 16 of those as co-creative and then sole creative director — Piccioli is widely respected for his mastery of haute couture and artistic storytelling. His first collection for Balenciaga is set to debut in October 2025.

"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," Piccioli said in a statement. "This gives me the chance to shape a new version of the maison, adding another chapter with a new story."

Kering Deputy CEO Francesca Bellettini called Piccioli “one of the most talented and celebrated designers of today,” praising his “creative voice and passion for savoir-faire.” She also thanked Demna for shaping Balenciaga’s bold identity over the past decade.

Pierpaolo Piccioli, newly named creative director of Balenciaga, in a portrait by David Sims. The image was shared on Instagram by both Piccioli and Balenciaga following the announcement. Photo by David Sims

Gianfranco Gianangeli, CEO of Balenciaga, echoed the optimism, saying: "His creative vision will thrive... building on the House’s bold creativity, rich heritage and strong culture."

Demna’s tenure was marked by striking runway moments and celebrity collaborations, including Cardi B and Kim Kardashian, as well as controversies — most notably the 2022 ad campaign featuring children with teddy bear bags clad in bondage-style gear. Though Demna later apologized, the backlash drew global criticism and raised questions about the brand’s direction.

Piccioli’s entry signals a new creative chapter for Balenciaga — one that bridges its storied heritage with a more nuanced, couture-forward future.

(Sources: BoF, Agence France-Presse, Balenciaga, Pierpaolo Piccioli on IG)

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