Pierpaolo Piccioli Named Creative Director of Balenciaga
Marking a New Era for the Parisian House
Kering has officially announced the appointment of Pierpaolo Piccioli as the new Creative Director of Balenciaga, effective July 10, 2025. A visionary of modern couture and revered for his poetic reinvention of fashion codes, Piccioli brings a deeply personal and emotive approach to design that signals a bold new chapter for the house.
Image by David Sims. Courtesy of Kering: Balenciaga
Following a transformative decade under Demna’s leadership, Piccioli steps into a legacy defined by innovation and artistic daring, while honoring the enduring spirit of Cristóbal Balenciaga. His arrival is set to usher in a dialogue between heritage and radical elegance.
Francesca Bellettini, Kering’s Deputy CEO in charge of Brand Development, shared her excitement: “Pierpaolo is one of the most gifted designers of our time. His sensitivity, mastery of haute couture, and commitment to craftsmanship made him the natural choice for Balenciaga. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Demna for his fearless vision, which powerfully shaped the house’s identity over the last ten years. With Pierpaolo and Gianfranco at the helm, I am confident this next chapter will be nothing short of extraordinary.”
Balenciaga CEO Gianfranco Gianangeli added, “I am thrilled to begin this new era with Pierpaolo. His creative intelligence and refined sensibility will resonate with the house’s core values. Together with our talented teams, I look forward to what we will build, fueled by the unique energy that has always driven Balenciaga forward.”
Reflecting on his appointment, Piccioli expressed gratitude and purpose. “Balenciaga has continuously evolved, yet never strayed from its aesthetic soul. What I inherit is a brand alive with potential. I deeply respect Demna and all he has accomplished. I could not imagine a more meaningful transition. This is an opportunity to write a new story, to shape a new vision of the maison. I am thankful to François-Henri, Francesca, and Gianfranco for their trust. From our first conversations, there was a shared sense of purpose. That, for me, is the most powerful way to begin.”
Pierpaolo Piccioli’s first collection for Balenciaga will debut in October 2025.