Alessandro Michele Confirmed At Gucci

IT is the news that we have been waiting for - even if we might have already guessed: Gucci has confirmed that its head accessories designer, Alessandro Michele, is its new creative director.

Alessandro Michele

"After a considered and thorough selection process, Alessandro Michele has been chosen to assume the role as Gucci creative director, based upon the contemporary vision he has articulated for the brand that he will now bring to life," Marco Bizzarri, president and CEO of Gucci, said. "Alessandro and I are fully aligned on this new contemporary vision needed by the brand and we will be continuously inspired by that new identity in our respective roles and duties. 

Alessandro's talent and his knowledge of the company and the design teams in place will for sure allow him to move quickly and seamlessly in implementing his new creative direction for the collections and the brand. The Gucci men´s autumn/winter 2015 collection presented on January 19th which was realised thanks to a remarkable collaboration between the men's design and production teams, is a clear indication that the brand is ready to take a new direction."

Gucci

Following the announcement that former helmer Frida Giannini was stepping down, names of prospective replacements abounded around the industry (with even Tom Ford being brought into the mix.) But after her abrupt departure one month early; the news this week that the autumn/winter 2015 menswear collection had been completely redesigned under Michele's leadership; and the very poignant fact that it was he who took a bow at the end of Monday´s show. Gucci's new direction appeared to be a done deal.

"Gucci is one of the leading contemporary fashion brands and whatever they do is both interesting and influential in both ready to wear and accessories," said Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman. "I am excited to see what Alessandro brings to the company in his new role."

Michele has been at the label since 2002 and worked closely with Giannini during her tenure. His first womenswear offering for the brand - which, presumably, will also mirror his change in direction - will be unveiled during Milan Fashion Week next month, with all eyes on the new graduate from the Gucci ranks.

"Throughout its history, Gucci has always created attention and excitement through its innovative and distinctive products and collections as it has become Italy's most renowned fashion house and one of the most iconic and prominent luxury brands in the world," François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering, added. "Alessandro Michele has both the qualities and the vision necessary to bring a new contemporary perspective to Gucci and lead the brand into an exciting new creative chapter of its history."