Since the surprising departure of Alessandro Michele as the creative director of Gucci, the fashion world has been very keen to find what comes next for the brand. Following a period of “brand fatigue” and slow sales growth, Luxury group Kering has designated Sabato de Sarno as the creative director of Gucci to revive the brand. He will lead the House’s Design Studio and report to Marco Bizzarri, President and CEO of Gucci. He is assigned with the responsibility for defining and expressing the House’s creative vision across the women’s, men’s, leather goods, accessories and lifestyle collections.
Marco Bizzarri, President and CEO of Gucci, stated “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. 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.”
Mr. De Sarno has many years of experience having worked with various luxury fashion houses including Prada and Dolce & Gabbana and most recently as the fashion director at Valentino, where he oversaw both men’s and women’s collections. Mr. De Sarno’s work has been notable during his tenure in Valentino.
The designer will present his debut runway collection at Milan Women’s Fashion Week in September 2023. From Mr. Michele’s maximalist collections to the new minimal fall-winter collection, Gucci’s transition has been momentous. If Mr. de Sarno’s Instagram profile is any indication, it would be fascinating to witness his eclectic yet minimalist creative vision unfold at Gucci.
