In November, Alessandro Michele made headlines following his shocking exit from his Creative Director post at Gucci. The departure came after seven years at the helm and throughout his tenure, Michele delivered some of the most epic collections and staged even more memorable fashion shows across the globe. Undoubtedly responsible for making Gucci one of the hottest brands today, Michele’s shoes are big ones to fill for sure.
Whilst everyone was wondering who’d be taking over, Gucci and Kering announced who will be taking over the creative reigns at the fashion house over the weekend.
Sabato De Sarno will officially assume the role of Creative Director for the house with his debut runway collection set to be revealed at Milan Women’s Fashion Week in September 2023. In his new role, De Sarno will lead the House’s Design Studio reporting to Marco Bizzarri, President and CEO of Gucci, with the responsibility for defining and expressing the House’s creative vision across the women’s, men’s, leather goods, accessories and lifestyle collections.
“I am delighted that Sabato will join Gucci as the House’s new Creative Director, one of the most influential roles in the luxury industry,” commented Marco Bizzarri, President and CEO of Gucci. “Having worked with a number of Italy’s most renowned luxury fashion houses, he brings with him a vast and relevant experience. I am certain that through Sabato’s deep understanding and appreciation for Gucci’s unique legacy, he will lead our creative teams with a distinctive vision that will help write this exciting next chapter, reinforcing the House’s fashion authority while capitalizing on its rich heritage.”
Whilst his name may not ring a bell, De Sarno was born in Naples, Italy, and comes to Gucci with an impressive roster of experience. His career first began at Prada in 2005, followed by a move to Dolce & Gabbana, and finally, joining Valentino in 2009, where he held positions of increasing responsibility, finally being appointed Fashion Director overseeing both men’s and women’s collections.
Michele initiated a strong design shift at Gucci, and we can’t wait to see how De Sarno will further elevate the brand towards a true luxury positioning.
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