Last week, news broke out that made the global fashion industry gasp collectively: Pierpaolo Piccioli is leaving Valentino. After an illustrious 25-year journey with the Italian Maison–eight of those as the Creative Director–Piccioli’s triumphant tenure has come to an end. While the news generated debates about who should take up the coveted position next, it also took a nostalgic turn as the fashion crowd looked back at Piccioli’s unforgettable impact on the house and the broader fashion landscape.
As Piccioli departs, we take a look back at his legacy at Maison Valentino. Scroll down to discover 8 pivotal moments from Piccioli’s career at Valentino.Â
1999: PIERPAOLO PICCIOLI JOINED VALENTINO
In 1999, Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri–who worked together at Fendi– were personally appointed by Mr. Valentino to design an accessory line that echoed the spirit of the Maison’s couture. Piccioli and Chiuri successfully revamped the Valentino handbag and eyewear lines.Â
2003: HANDED LEADERSHIP OF RED VALENTINO
In 2003, the duo handed over the leadership of the Red Valentino diffusion line.Â
2008: APPOINTED AS CO-CREATIVE DIRECTOR
In 2008, the duo assumed the roles of Co-Creative directors for Valentino, replacing Alessandra Facchinetti, who had taken up the role after founder Valentino Garavani retired. Beginning a new era for the Valentino woman, Piccioli and Chiuri won over both fans and critics from the get-go as they released collection after collection that fully understood the Valentino woman. Spearheading the legendary Maison, Piccioli and Chiuri introduced a number of now-cult items, including the emblematic ‘Rockstud’ line. The duo also won the CFDA International Award in 2015.
2016: APPOINTED AS SOLO CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Together, Piccioli and Chiuri earned the brand a hefty revenue of $1 billion in 2015. In 2016, however, Chiuri left Valentino to join Dior, leaving Piccioli as the sole Creative Director of the Maison.
2018: WON DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
At the 2018 Fashion Awards, Piccioli took home the biggest and the most coveted award as he clutched the ‘Designer of the Year’ trophy.Â
2022: INTRODUCED THE ‘VALENTINO PINK PP’ SHADE
For his Fall/Winter 2023 collection, Piccioli wrapped the runway and his models in what is now a historic shade of pink: ‘Valentino Pink PP.’ Recognized by Pantone, the unique hue evolved into a symbol of the brand for seasons to come.Â
2022: WON DESIGNER OF THE YEAR, AGAIN
In 2022, the Fashion Awards crowned Piccioli as ‘Designer of the Year’ again.
2024: DESIGNED AN ALL-BLACK COLLECTION
Last month, Piccioli presented what might be his final collection for the Maison: the Valentino ‘Le Noir’ collection. While the all-black collection came across as a surprising shift from Piccioli’s vibrant approach at its release, in hindsight, it seems like the perfect farewell collection for the designer who has left the entire industry mourning with the news of his departure.Â
