Simone Bellotti is an Italian fashion designer with an impressive career spanning over two decades in the industry. He has worked at some of the most prestigious fashion houses, including Gucci (where he spent 16 years), Bottega Veneta, Dolce & Gabbana, Gianfranco Ferré, and A.F. Vandervorst. Most recently, he was the Creative Director of Bally, where he brought a refined and artistic touch to the Swiss luxury brand.
Why He Might Be a Good Fit for Jil Sander:
- Expertise in Minimalism and Craftsmanship
Jil Sander is known for its understated luxury, precision tailoring, and modern minimalism. Bellotti’s deep understanding of craftsmanship and his obsession with detail align well with this ethos. - Strong Archival and Research Background
His approach to design involves interpreting archival references with a fresh perspective. Given Jil Sander’s rich legacy in modernist fashion, Bellotti’s ability to reinterpret classic codes in innovative ways could be a natural fit. - Experience with Luxury and Heritage Brands
His time at Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Gianfranco Ferré gave him a strong foundation in working with heritage brands and evolving their aesthetic while maintaining their DNA. Jil Sander, owned by OTB Group, could benefit from this balance of innovation and brand integrity. - A Global and Artistic Perspective
Having lived and worked in fashion capitals like Milan and Antwerp, he has been exposed to radical creativity and avant-garde movements. His passion for art, photography, and music also suggests he could bring an intellectual and cultural depth to Jil Sander’s collections.
Bellotti’s disciplined, refined, and deeply researched approach to fashion aligns with Jil Sander’s identity. His appointment could mean a return to the house’s core principles of precision, purity, and innovation, while adding a subtle, modern evolution to its aesthetic.
Bellotti steps into the creative director role at Jil Sander after serving as Creative Director at Bally, where his artistic influence and fresh perspective left a lasting impact. Born and raised in Milan, he later moved to Antwerp, immersing himself in a dynamic community of radical creatives. His career boasts an impressive trajectory, with pivotal roles at A.F. Vandervorst, Gianfranco Ferré, Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, and a remarkable 16-year tenure at Gucci. His work is defined by an obsession with detail, a deep respect for archival references, and an ability to reinterpret them with innovative direction. Bellotti’s passion for research fuels his creative vision, drawing inspiration from art, photography, and music.
