Simone Bellotti Named Creative Director of Jil Sander

The game of fashion’s musical chair of creative directors never disappoints. Jil Sander and its parent company OTB Group have announced earlier today that Simone Bellotti has been appointed as the new creative director of the brand, effective immediately.

Back in January, WWD had reported that changes are expected to occur after Luke and Lucie Meier were set to exit the brand after eight years. Their departure from the brand was confirmed earlier this year at the duo’s final Fall/Winter 2025 show for the brand in Milan. As for Bellotti, prior to his Jil Sander appointment, he was the creative director of Bally, having been named in May 2023 succeeding Rhuigi Villaseñor.

Renzo Rosso, chairman of the OTB Group said of Bellotti’s new role at Jil Sander, “Simone embarks on this journey with extensive experience and a distinct talent. Over the time spent together we shared the strategic vision and mission for Jil Sander, the values of innovation and sophistication that make it an iconic and unique brand.” Bellotti joins amidst many changes at Jil Sander. Just last month Serge Brunschwig, previously chairman and CEO of Fendi was named chief strategy officer of OTB after leaving the Rome-based luxury company last May. Bellotti has a strong resumé. Prior to quietly joining Bally in October 2022 after a 16-year tenure at Gucci, he had also held senior design positions at Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta and Gianfranco Ferré.

Bellotti’s statement upon joining Jil Sander reads, “I am incredibly honored to join Jil Sander, a storied house that created a new aesthetic with its unique approach and strong identity, and that has always had such a significant influence on the design community. I am grateful to Renzo for the trust, and I am keen to contribute to the house’s full potential.”