Pierpaolo Piccioli Joins Balenciaga: A New Era Begins

The world of haute couture is defined by its rare ability to surprise, and once again, the industry is abuzz: Pierpaolo Piccioli, the poetic maestro who breathed new life into Valentino, has been named the new Creative Director of Balenciaga. This appointment, effective July 10, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for both the storied Parisian house and the wider landscape of luxury fashion. 

A Passing of the Torch: From Demna to Piccioli 

Balenciaga’s last decade, under Demna’s radical vision, was a study in disruption. Demna’s era was marked by theatrical runway spectacles, meme-worthy products, and a bold reimagining of Cristóbal Balenciaga’s sculptural legacy for a new generation. His unapologetic approach made Balenciaga a focal point for both trends and cultural debate, propelling the brand back to the center of the fashion conversation. Now, as Demna departs for Gucci, Balenciaga turns to Piccioli; a designer whose creative language is rooted less in provocation and more in romance, humanity, and the power of beauty.

Photo: Vogue.com

The Piccioli Signature: Humanist Couture and Modern Elegance 

Piccioli’s legacy at Valentino is one of modernizing couture for the contemporary moment. He championed inclusivity, redefined the house’s codes, and brought a sense of optimism to every collection. His work is distinguished by exquisite tailoring, vibrant color stories (think the iconic “PP Pink”), and a deep respect for the artisans behind each creation. At Valentino, he often brought his entire atelier on stage, recognizing the collective spirit behind luxury’s most breathtaking moments. 

Photo: Itsliquid.com

What’s Next for Balenciaga? 

Piccioli’s arrival signals a new era. While Demna’s Balenciaga was defined by irony and streetwise edge, Piccioli’s vision promises a return to the house’s roots in sculptural elegance, interpreted through a lens of modern romanticism. In his own words, Piccioli sees Balenciaga as “a brand full of possibilities that is incredibly fascinating,” and he is “grateful for the trust” placed in him to “shape a new version of the Maison, adding another chapter with a new story”. 

Balenciaga’s CEO, Gianfranco Gianangeli, expressed confidence that Piccioli will “perfectly interpret the legacy of Cristóbal Balenciaga, building on the House’s bold creativity, rich heritage and strong culture”. Industry observers are eager to see how Piccioli’s mastery of haute couture and his passion for “savoir-faire” will translate to Balenciaga’s unique DNA.


Photo: Molinsdesign.com

A New Vision for Luxury 

This transition comes at a crucial time for Kering, Balenciaga’s parent company, which is navigating shifting consumer tastes and creative changes across its portfolio. With Piccioli at the helm, Balenciaga is poised to embrace a vision that is both forward-thinking and deeply respectful of its heritage. 

Piccioli’s debut collection for Balenciaga will be unveiled in October 2025 during Paris Fashion Week—a moment certain to be watched by the entire industry. As he steps into this new role, the luxury world awaits a fresh narrative: one where craftsmanship, inclusivity, and emotion take center stage, and where the spirit of Balenciaga is reimagined for a new era. The stage is set for a new chapter—one that promises to blend the audacious with the sublime, and to reaffirm Balenciaga’s place at the pinnacle of luxury fashion. 

Lots of love,
Lieke

Sources:
Businessoffashion.com
Fashionunited.uk
Vogue.nl