Now it’s official. Creative director Alessandro Gucci is leaving the Italian fashion house Gucci after more than 20 years.
“There are times when we part ways because each of us has a different perspective,” says Alessandro Michele in a statement from French Gucci parent company Kering. “Today I complete an extraordinary journey that has spanned more than twenty years, within a company to which I have relentlessly devoted all my love and creative passion.”
On Wednesday evening, Kering officially confirmed a report by the US trade magazine Women’s Wear Daily, which had previously reported on Michele’s possible resignation, citing anonymous sources.
Michele has been at the creative helm of Gucci since January 2015. With his creativity and vision, he has made a significant contribution to the economic success of the brand in recent years. With his eccentric design language, he also defined the trend towards maximalism in the fashion world for years.
What’s next for Gucci?
“His passion, imagination, ingenuity and culture have put Gucci front and center where it belongs,” said François-Henri Pinault, CEO of Kering, in the statement. “I wish him a great next chapter in his creative journey.”
So far, there’s no indication of what Alessandro Michele might be up to after his distinguished career at the Italian fashion house. Gucci also keeps it vague as to who or how many people might shape the creative side of Gucci in the future.
“Gucci’s design office will continue to direct the fortunes of the house until a new creative organization is announced,” Kering said on Wednesday evening.