In a surprise move, the French luxury group Kering has appointed Sabato de Sarno as the new creative director of GUCCI. The position had been vacant since Alessandro Michele left on November 23, 2022.
Alessandro Michele’s departure from GUCCI caused strong reactions in the fashion industry, as he had been a loyal employee of the company since 2002 and had climbed the ranks to become the top title in January 2015. His unique vision of fashion, which blended baroque elements with poetic quirks, had earned him a special place in the industry and many considered him irreplaceable. However, the slowdown in growth at GUCCI, one of Kering’s most powerful brands, put him in a difficult position. The group asked him to change his stylistic approach, but he refused, leading to his departure.
Sabato De Sarno, who was raised in Naples and began his career at PRADA in 2005, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He has held positions of increasing responsibility at Dolce&Gabbana and Valentino, where he currently serves as the fashion director overseeing both men’s and women’s collections.
You maybe interest to read:
GUCCI – Fall/Winter 2023 – Milan Fashion Week
GUCCI celebrates the Lunar New Year 2023 with a joyful and colorful capsule
GUCCI opens its first stand-alone luggage store in Paris
“I am delighted that Sabato will join Gucci as the House’s new creative director, one of the most influential roles in the luxury industry,” said Marco Bizzarri, president and CEO of GUCCI. “Having worked with a number of Italy’s most renowned luxury fashion houses, he brings with him a vast and relevant experience. I am certain that through Sabato’s deep understanding and appreciation for GUCCI’s unique legacy, he will lead our creative teams with a distinctive vision that will help write this exciting next chapter, reinforcing the House’s fashion authority while capitalizing on its rich heritage.”
François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering, echoed these sentiments, stating, “With Sabato De Sarno at the creative helm, we are confident that the House will continue both to influence fashion and culture through highly desirable products and collections, and to bring a singular and contemporary perspective to modern luxury.”
De Sarno himself expressed his excitement for the role, saying, “I am deeply honored to take on the role as creative director of GUCCI. I am proud to join a House with such an extraordinary history and heritage, that over the years has been able to welcome and cherish values I believe in. I am touched and excited to contribute my creative vision for the brand.”
It remains to be seen how de Sarno will put his own spin on the iconic luxury brand, but there is no doubt that he brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the industry to the table. The fashion world will be watching closely to see how GUCCI evolves under his leadership.
Click on this link to read this article in French version.
