Bye Bye Balenciaga. On 13 March, Kering and Gucci broke the news that Demna would be taking over as artistic director of Gucci following Sabato de Sarno's departure. De Sarno parted ways with the House in February following a tumultuous two years at the helm; his collections were deemed too classic by some and were reportedly not generating revenue.
Demna had served as Balenciaga's artistic director since 2015 and has transformed the Italian House through his affinity for designing collections with virality in mind. Fitting, then, that he should go to Gucci, where whimsy and audaciousness are woven into its codes.
"Demna's contribution to the industry, to Balenciaga, and to the Group's success has been tremendous. His creative power is exactly what Gucci needs," shared François-Henri Pinault, Chairman & CEO of Kering. "As I thank him for everything he has accomplished over the past 10 years, I look forward to seeing him shape Gucci’s new artistic direction." Echoing the sentiment, Demna enthused, "I am truly excited to join the Gucci family. It is an honour to contribute to a House that I deeply respect and have long admired."
Demna will begin his role in July 2025.
