Pierpaolo Piccioli Leaves Balenciaga

Pierpaolo Piccioli has left Balenciaga after 16 months as creative director, bringing his tenure at the French fashion house to an end. Kering, the brand’s parent company, confirmed his departure on Thursday, November 5.

In a statement, Balenciaga’s president and CEO, Gianfranco Gianangeli, thanked Piccioli for his contribution, highlighting his efforts to reconnect the house with its couture heritage through craftsmanship, construction and creativity.

Kering CEO Luca de Meo also praised the Italian designer, describing him as an exceptional couturier and creative talent. He reaffirmed the group’s ambition to preserve Balenciaga’s avant-garde identity while respecting its heritage. The company added that the house’s next creative direction would be announced shortly.

Photo: Umberto Fratini/ Gorunway.com

Piccioli joined Balenciaga after spending 25 years at Valentino, where he became recognised for his romantic designs, expressive use of colour and expertise in haute couture. He joined the Italian fashion house in 1999, initially working in accessories before becoming co-creative director alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri in 2008. He took sole charge in 2016.

His appointment at Balenciaga was announced in May 2025 and became effective on July 10, following Demna’s departure for Gucci. The change marked a new direction for the Parisian house after a decade under Demna, whose tenure was defined by oversized silhouettes, streetwear influences and unconventional runway presentations.

Piccioli’s first collection for Balenciaga was presented in October 2025. Drawing inspiration from the archives of founder Cristóbal Balenciaga, it introduced his approach to the house through fluid silhouettes, considered tailoring and traditional couture techniques.

In July 2026, he presented his first haute couture collection for the brand. The collection featured sculptural gowns, intricate embellishments and vivid colours, with references to the founder’s work, including the iconic Chou cape. Model Gigi Hadid also made a runway appearance.

His final ready-to-wear collection, Spring/Summer 2027, was presented during Paris Fashion Week on October 1. It featured colourful tailoring, flowing dresses, distressed denim, minimalist footwear and oversized handbags, offering a more relaxed interpretation of the house’s wardrobe.

Photo: Umberto Fratini/ Gorunway.com

His departure comes amid a challenging period for Balenciaga. Morgan Stanley estimates cited by Vogue put the brand’s 2025 sales at €1.47 billion, down from €1.65 billion in 2024. Kering has also identified ready-to-wear and footwear as areas requiring renewed attention.

Reports of Piccioli’s impending exit had circulated before the official announcement. In October, Puck reported that Balenciaga employees had been informed of his departure, citing concerns about the brand’s creative and commercial direction, particularly its menswear business. The publication also linked British designer Martine Rose to the creative director position, although Kering has not confirmed her appointment.

With Piccioli’s departure now confirmed and his successor yet to be announced, Balenciaga faces another change in creative leadership. The house is expected to reveal its next creative direction .