Pierpaolo Piccioli Steps Down as Creative Director of Balenciaga
The Italian couturier exits the Parisian house after less than two years amid a broader creative shakeup at parent group Kering.
Summary
Pierpaolo Piccioli will step down as creative director of Balenciaga after serving less than two years in the role
Kering chief executive Luca de Meo announced the departure as part of an ongoing restructuring across the luxury group's portfolio
London-based designer Martine Rose has reportedly been tapped to take over the helm at the Parisian fashion house
French luxury conglomerate Kering has announced that Pierpaolo Piccioli will step down as creative director of Balenciaga after less than two years in the role. The departure comes amid an extensive creative restructuring spearheaded by Kering chief executive Luca de Meo across the group’s flagship houses.
Piccioli took over the Parisian brand following Demna’s transition to Gucci in March 2025, attempting to reconcile couture craftsmanship with Balenciaga’s streetwear credibility. However, reconciling the Roman couturier’s romantic aesthetic with the house’s subversive codes proved challenging amidst fluctuating sales. Addressing the transition, Kering noted that “Balenciaga faced a more challenging quarter as the House continued to work through its creative transition and to restore balance across its business.”
“Pierpaolo is an exceptional couturier and creative talent for whom we have the greatest respect,” De Meo said in a statement. “Our ambition is to build on Balenciaga’s avant garde spirit, honour its remarkable heritage and continue to push creative boundaries, further establishing the house as a powerful and relevant voice.” The departure follows recent high-profile exits across Kering, including Anthony Vaccarello at Saint Laurent and Sean McGirr at McQueen, with rumors that Martine Rose has been tapped to succeed Piccioli. Kering nor Balenciaga has confirmed Piccioli’s successor.
