Balenciaga concludes Piccioli's tenure after less than two years

Balenciaga has confirmed the departure of its creative director, Pierpaolo Piccioli, via a statement from Kering. The Italian designer steps down after less than two years in the role. This news arrives just weeks after Kering confirmed the exit of Anthony Vaccarello from Saint Laurent and Seán McGirr from McQueen. Consequently, the group led by Luca de Meo now faces three simultaneous creative successions across some of its most prominent houses.

In the statement, Gianfranco Gianangeli, president and chief executive officer of Balenciaga, thanked the designer for his contribution. He noted that Piccioli reaffirmed the couture origins of the house through his focus on craftsmanship, construction and creativity. Meanwhile, de Meo described him as an exceptional “couturier” and stated that the group's ambition is to build on Balenciaga's avant-garde spirit while honouring its heritage.

“The company will announce a new creative direction shortly,” the statement read. Industry rumours already point towards London-based designer Martine Rose, who designed Balenciaga's menswear line for several years.

16 months to return Balenciaga to haute couture

Piccioli was appointed creative director on May 19, 2025, effective July 10, 2025. He made his debut in October 2025 with the SS26 collection. He succeeded Demna, who moved to helm Gucci. Piccioli assumed responsibility for womenswear, menswear, accessories and haute couture collections, arriving with an impressive track record following his 25 years at Valentino.

The departure had been anticipated for weeks. In late September, trade publication Miss Tweed reported, citing industry sources, that Piccioli's couture style was not selling as well as de Meo had hoped. The publication also noted that revenue for the menswear line, which is key for the brand, had dropped sharply during his tenure. Almost two weeks ago, US media outlet Puck revealed that Balenciaga employees had been informed internally of his exit. It suggested the move aligns with the goal of positioning Balenciaga as the Gen Z entry point into the Kering universe.