Demna Exits Balenciaga and Joins Gucci
In a major shake-up at Kering, Demna is leaving Balenciaga to become the new artistic director of Gucci. Gucci’s CEO, Stefano Cantino, stated, “Demna will bring something exceptional to Gucci. His approach to defining fashion today is truly unique, and that is exactly what Gucci deserves and needs for the future. We are in full agreement that Demna is one of the best creative directors of his generation—without a doubt. He has proven his ability to reshape Balenciaga, redefining its identity and, of course, its fashion perspective.” Demna will conclude his tenure at Balenciaga with an haute couture show on July 9 before transitioning to Gucci, according to Kering’s deputy CEO, Francesca Bellettini. He replaces Sabato De Sarno, who exited Gucci in early February after just two years. De Sarno’s tenure saw Gucci’s revenue drop by 26%, with critics often giving mixed reviews of his minimalist collections and signature redesigns, which struggled to gain traction. Kering shares dropped 13% following the announcement, wiping out approximately $3 billion in market value today, according to Reuters. Given that Gucci accounted for 63% of Kering’s operating profit in 2024, the stakes for this transition are exceptionally high, with the industry watching closely to see how Demna reshapes the house. Meanwhile, speculation is already swirling about who will take over at Balenciaga. According to WWD, sources have pointed to Pieter Mulier of Alaïa and Daniel Roseberry of Schiaparelli as leading contenders. [WWD]
Donatella Versace Steps Into New Role as Dario Vitale Takes Over as Chief Creative Officer
After 28 years as Versace’s head of creative following her brother Gianni’s passing, Donatella Versace is transitioning into a new role as Chief of Brand Ambassador. Succeeding her as Chief Creative Officer is Dario Vitale, who will take on the position starting April 1st. Vitale, previously Miu Miu’s Ready-to-Wear Design Director, left the brand in January. In her new role, Donatella will focus on supporting Versace’s philanthropic and charitable initiatives. In 2018, Donatella sold her family company to Michael Kors Holdings for $2.1 billion. Now, Prada Group is reportedly in talks with Capri Holdings (formerly known as Michael Kors Holdings Limited) to acquire both Jimmy Choo and Versace, with a mid-March deadline to finalize the deal. According to Reuters, Prada’s CEO Andrea Guerra has traveled to New York alongside Lorenzo Bertelli—Chief Marketing Officer and son of Prada’s leading shareholders, Miuccia Prada and Patrizio Bertelli—to potentially finalize the acquisition, which is estimated to be worth nearly €1.5 billion ($1.64 billion). Speaking about Vitale’s appointment, Donatella said, “Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me. I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes. I want to thank my incredible design team and all the employees at Versace that I have had the privilege of working with for over three decades.” [WWD]
Pat McGrath Named Louis Vuitton’s First-Ever Creative Director of Cosmetics
Louis Vuitton is making its long-awaited debut in makeup with La Beauté Louis Vuitton, and at the forefront is none other than Pat McGrath, who has been appointed as the house’s first-ever creative director of cosmetics. McGrath’s influence on the beauty industry is legendary, having developed groundbreaking products for brands like Armani Beauty, Dolce & Gabbana Beauty, and Gucci Beauty. Now, she is set to shape Vuitton’s beauty identity, expanding the maison’s presence beyond fragrances. Reflecting on her long-standing collaboration with the brand, McGrath shared, “I have been creating makeup looks for Louis Vuitton for many years. We have a shared vision of beauty and collaborate in a way that feels entirely natural, but every season, there is a surprise and a twist! La Beauté Louis Vuitton is a perfect extension of the journey we’ve been on together.” The highly anticipated collection will include 55 lipsticks, 10 tinted lip balms, and eyeshadow palettes, accompanied by small leather goods designed to house the products—think lipstick cases and a miniature Vuitton trunk. Beauty lovers can expect the collection to arrive in Vuitton boutiques worldwide this fall, marking a new era for the luxury house. [Vogue]
LVMH’s Leadership Shake-Up
LVMH has announced a leadership reshuffle, appointing Damien Bertrand as deputy chief executive officer of Louis Vuitton and Pierre-Emmanuel Angeloglou as deputy CEO of Christian Dior Couture. Bertrand, currently CEO of Loro Piana, will transition to Vuitton on June 10 and join LVMH’s executive committee. Succeeding him at Loro Piana is Frédéric Arnault, CEO of LVMH Watches, which oversees Tag Heuer, Hublot, and Zenith. Arnault, the second youngest son of LVMH chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault, will join Loro Piana on March 26 for a transition period with Bertrand. These appointments mark another strategic realignment within the luxury conglomerate as it continues to position key executives for long-term growth across its portfolio. [WWD]
Nicola Kast on Why Specificity is Key in Casting
Nicola Kast’s journey into casting was anything but planned. After studying photography at SVA, she began her career as a Photo Editor at Style.com before transitioning to full-time casting in 2017. Now, as the casting director behind publications like Dust Magazine, she collaborates with brands like Dior, Fendi and Campillo. In the latest Behind The Image feature, she shares her scouting process, what’s currently inspiring her, and her best advice for emerging models here.
MDC Selects: These Rookies Are Design Talents and Finance Whizzes
Six new rookies from different parts of the world are here to share a little about themselves. Learn more on where these new faces are from, how they were discovered, and one surprising detail about them. Click the link here to see all their answers.
Don’t miss the final Paris Fashion Week coverage from F/W 25! From standout street style to behind-the-scenes moments at Sacai, a Runway Spotlight on Saint Laurent, and a special shoutout to Betsy Gaghan for walking the most shows this season. Stay tuned—our Top Newcomers F/W 25 round-up is coming soon.
