Alessandro Michele appointed creative director of Gucci

After mass speculation proceeding Milan men’s fashion week and the abrupt departure of previous director Frida Giannini, head accessories designer Alessandro Michele has been confirmed as Gucci’s latest creative director. Amid rumours that Tom Ford was making a comeback, the appointment of the 42-year-old designer follows the excellently-received men’s autumn/winter 2015 collection that he designed last-minute after Giannini’s unforeseen and swift parting from the luxury Italian brand.

According to Gucci’s CEO, Marco Bizzarri: “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.”

The label, whom are currently owned by Kering, the world’s third-largest luxury group, hope that Michele will revitalise the brand, retrieving it from the current sales decline by injecting a youthful energy. Kering, who also own Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen and Yves Saint Laurent, have stated that Michele will have full creative control throughout all of Gucci’s collections, as well as its brand image. 

Whilst Gucci’s forte lies in extravagance, former chief executive Patrizio Di Marco recognised the consumer desire for more subtly in their clothing and accessories. This resulted in a push towards the higher-end of the luxury market, with accessories at the forefront. This suggests current CEO, Bizzarri, will continue with this strategy as Michele is a skillful accessories designer. Indeed, he commented that: “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.”

Michele’s first collection as Gucci’s creative director will be the women’s ready-to-wear autumn/winter 2015-2016 collection, due to be showcased on Wednesday 25^th February 2015 in Milan.

Emily Harris