Well, that didn't last long...
Balenciaga is preparing for another change at the top, with Pierpaolo Piccioli stepping down as creative director. Parent company Kering confirmed the news on Thursday 5 November, adding that details of the house’s next creative direction will be shared shortly.
The news comes just over a year after Piccioli took over from Demna in May 2025. The Italian designer arrived at the Parisian maison following a 25-year career at Valentino, where he made a name for himself through romantic collections, striking colour palettes and a carefully crafted approach to dressmaking.
Piccioli’s debut ready-to-wear collection for SS26 received a measured response, while his first couture show in July 2026 was more positively received, offering a clearer look at his POV for the house. However, creating his own direction while balancing Balenciaga’s couture history with the streetwear-led style created by Demna proved difficult.
Kering CEO Luca de Meo praised Piccioli as “an exceptional couturier and creative talent”, adding that the group had the “greatest respect” for him.
Who do you think will next fill the role?
PHOTO CREDIT: @pppiccioli
