Marni Appoints Francesco Risso As Creative Director

Fresh from the news this morning that Marni founder Consuelo Castiglioni is stepping down as creative director of the label, her replacement has been named. Francesco Risso, has been appointed by Marni owners OTB with immediate effect.

Risso, a Central Saint Martins alumni, has worked under a number of high-profile fashion designers, including Anna Molinari, Alessandro Dell'Acqua and most recently Miuccia Prada, the latter of whom he worked for on her womenswear collections. His first collection for Marni will be shown at Milan Fashion Week in February for the autumn/winter 2017 season.

“The world pays tribute to the original vision of Consuelo, and to a unique brand which we are proud to have in our group. I wish her the very best,” said OTB president Renzo Rosso. “I am happy to welcome Francesco, whose talent will contribute to writing a new chapter in the history of this house which is Italian at heart and global in spirit. I am confident that the creative team and the management of Marni, which have contributed to this success, will continue to make this brand reach exciting new goals.”

Castiglioni said in a statement this morning: “These were hectic and exciting years which absorbed all of my energies to create a project I am proud of. Thanks also to the constant support of my family who allowed me to stay true to my idea, I built a brand with a precise and recognisable identity." She concluded that she will now dedicate herself to her private life.