Paris, 22 March 2024
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
In the perpetually evolving world of haute couture, every change of guard is a solemn moment that marks the end of an era and the beginning of another.
Today, the house of Valentino is preparing to turn a significant page in its grand fashion book with the announcement of Pierpaolo Piccioli’s departure, the creative director whose artistic vision has shaped the brand’s identity in recent years.
Piccioli, who took the reins solo in July 2016 after a successful collaboration with Maria Grazia Chiuri, leaves behind a legacy of innovation and renewal.
His appointment as sole creative director came at a pivotal moment, a decade after his arrival in Rome, where he began by overseeing the accessories for the label.
Under his leadership, Valentino has been transformed.
The brand has embraced a modernity that has not failed to respect the very essence of the legacy left by Valentino Garavani.
Piccioli has managed to combine the exquisite craftsmanship that is the signature of Valentino with a younger and more diverse approach, in line with the contemporary codes of fashion.
Jacopo Venturini, CEO of Valentino, and Rachid Mohamed Rachid, chairman of the company, have both expressed deep gratitude to Piccioli for his dedication and creative vision.
His creations have often been described as symphonies of fabrics, woven poems that speak the universal language of beauty and elegance.
Piccioli himself has reflected on his journey in almost philosophical terms, highlighting the relationships and human collaborations that have punctuated his time at Valentino.
He has emphasized the importance of the legacy of love, dreams, beauty, and humanity that he has woven with his team, a legacy that he intends to carry with him, “today and forever.”
In terms of creation, Pierpaolo Piccioli has distinguished himself by injecting a new spirit into the couture house.
Ambassadors such as Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton or BTS’s Suga have reflected this inclusive vision.
These choices have also reflected an openness to new values, those of a generation that strives to be diverse and dynamic.
Valentino has already announced that a new creative structure will be revealed shortly, fueling speculation about the identity of Piccioli’s successor.
The fashion market is holding its breath, anticipating the next chapter of this revered institution.
The latest rumors mention renowned designers, testifying to the importance and attractiveness of the position to be filled.
This departure coincides with a strategic moment for Valentino, as evidenced by last year’s financial results, indicating sustained sales and profit growth.
The parent company Mayhoola, which also sees change with the departure of Balmain’s CEO, is also part of its luxury portfolio.
Valentino’s future thus seems to be marked by continuity, but also by reinvention.
Eyes are now turning to the future, a future without Piccioli at the creative helm, but with his indelible imprint left on fabrics and in the hearts of fashion lovers.
The next step for Valentino will be crucial, as the brand prepares to welcome new talent, with the promise of perpetuating the excellence and innovation that have always been the guiding thread of its legendary history.
Photography Credits: Valentino
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News [ Le M&Magazine ]
