Kering and Balenciaga have officially announced the appointment of Pierpaolo Piccioli as the new Creative Director of the storied Parisian house, effective July 10, 2025. The designer, known for his poetic sensibilities and emotional depth, steps into the role following the decade-defining tenure of Demna, ushering in a new chapter rooted in both reinvention and reverence.

A master of modern couture, Piccioli’s arrival marks a pivotal moment for Balenciaga—one of the most influential maisons of the 21st century. His tenure at Valentino redefined romanticism for a new generation, and now, the Roman designer is poised to channel his vision into a house once helmed by the legendary Cristóbal Balenciaga, whose architectural precision and radical innovation shaped modern fashion as we know it.

Francesca Bellettini, Deputy CEO of Kering and the force behind the Group’s brand development, heralded the appointment with confident enthusiasm. “Pierpaolo is one of the most celebrated designers of our time,” she declared. “His command of couture, his distinct creative voice, and his deep commitment to craftsmanship made him the natural choice for Balenciaga. I also extend heartfelt thanks to Demna, whose bold and fearless direction brought Balenciaga to the frontlines of contemporary culture.”

Gianfranco Gianangeli, CEO of Balenciaga, echoed the sentiment: “This is the beginning of an exciting new era. Pierpaolo brings not only vision, but a profound understanding of the House’s heritage. With his leadership, I am confident that Balenciaga will continue to evolve—honoring the past while forging new creative ground.”

For his part, Piccioli offered a deeply personal reflection on his new creative journey. “Balenciaga has always remained true to its aesthetic codes, even as it has evolved through time,” he said. “It’s a brand brimming with possibilities—its history, its boldness, its beauty. I am especially grateful to Demna; his work has inspired me, and this transition feels like a graceful passing of the torch. I look forward to shaping a new chapter, one that speaks to today’s world while rooted in the Maison’s extraordinary legacy.”

The fashion calendar is already anticipating October 2025, when Piccioli’s debut collection for Balenciaga will be unveiled—one that promises to intertwine the house’s sculptural past with the lyricism and soulfulness that has become his signature.

In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury, Balenciaga stands once again at the edge of transformation. With Piccioli at the helm, the future is not only bright—it is beautifully bold.