Fashion musical chairs: Who sits at Chanel, Dior, and Proenza?
Once upon a time, long, long ago, it wasn't so difficult to know who the head designer was of Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and Dries van Noten. They were the namesakes themselves. But the fashion world today is in a constant state of flux, with an almost continuous game of musical chairs among creative directors moving from one house to another. Because staying for decades at a ‘house,’ like Karl Lagerfeld did at Chanel, is unfortunately a thing of the past. That's why we present this fashion cheat sheet, so you can be completely up-to-date again. At least for the next few months.
Demna to Gucci
Demna, formerly the creative mind behind Balenciaga and the founder of Vetements, has been appointed the new artistic director of Gucci. He succeeds Sabato De Sarno, who was at the helm for only a short time. His minimalist collections had a totally different vibe than those of Alessandro Michele, which start somewhere at over the top and then go full throttle. That proved to be unsuccessful. Demna is known for his designs that explore the boundaries of fashion. His move to Gucci is seen as a strategic move to breathe new life into the brand and boost sales – and that will surely succeed.
Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez at Loewe
Design duo Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, known for their own label Proenza Schouler (pronounced as Pro-en-za Skoeler), have the task of defining the new creative direction of Loewe. They succeed Jonathan Anderson (who is tipped as the designer for Dior), who brought the brand to new heights with his unique vision. Under Anderson, Loewe has experienced tremendous growth in fashion, perfumes, bags, and homewear.
Matthieu Blazy to Chanel
After the passing of Karl Lagerfeld, who was the creative genius of Chanel for many years, his vision was quietly continued by Virginie Viard. But she still lacked a bit of the cool and the bite to make Chanel truly distinctive. Succeeding Lagerfeld is a case of large shoes to fill, but the management of the house has every confidence in Matthieu Blazy, who previously worked at Bottega Veneta.
Glenn Martens to Maison Margiela
Belgian designer Glenn Martens, known for his work at Y\/Project and Diesel, has been appointed the new creative director of Maison Margiela. He succeeds John Galliano (you know, the man who was the big name at Dior for years until he was fired for anti-Semitic remarks on a crowded terrace in Paris). Martens now brings his avant-garde style to the Parisian fashion house.
Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta
This is a bold choice. Louise Trotter was creative director at Lacoste and is now set to steer the ship that is Bottega Veneta. Lacoste is of course a fantastic brand, but it operates on a different level than Bottega. But she won't have been hired just like that and will surely have a good idea of how to give the classic designs of Bottega a minimalist twist that gives the allure that Blazy gave the label.
Michael Rider to Celine
Celine, one of my favorites, will now be led by Michael Rider. Interestingly, he will oversee both the men's and women's collections and will also be head of accessories.
Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander
Simone Bellotti, formerly working at Bally, has been appointed the new creative director of Jil Sander. He succeeds Lucie and Luke Meier and brings his extensive experience in luxury fashion to the minimalist German brand.
Jonathan Anderson to Dior?
There are rumors that Jonathan Anderson, after his departure from Loewe, will become the new creative director of Dior. Although there is no official confirmation yet, this step would make sense given Anderson's success at Loewe and his ability to transform a brand. Fans and critics are eagerly awaiting further announcements.
Sarah Burton at Givenchy
Sarah Burton, formerly the creative mind behind Alexander McQueen, has been appointed the new creative director of Givenchy.
Haider Ackermann to Tom Ford
Haider Ackermann has been appointed the new creative director of Tom Ford. He will be responsible for all fashion expressions of the brand, including women's and men's clothing, accessories, and eyewear. Ackermann's signature style and attention to detail are expected to give a new direction to Tom Ford.
Peter Copping at Lanvin
Peter Copping has been appointed artistic director of Lanvin, where he will oversee both women's and men's collections, as well as leather goods and accessories. His appointment follows a period of uncertainty for the French fashion house, and Copping's experience is seen as a valuable addition.
Alessandro Michele to Valentino
Alessandro Michele, the man who brought Gucci to great heights, is now the new creative director of Valentino. His first collection for the Roman fashion house is eagerly anticipated, as Michele is known for his eclectic and romantic designs.
We will all see it, girlfriends.
Sources: Business of Fashion
