The designer Martine Rose will take over as Balenciaga's new creative director, the brand's parent company Kering has announced.

Rose is a well-established designer, having founded own label in 2007 known for its visual language tied to music, identity and the social codes of dress as determined by subcultures, per Kering’s announcement.

She previously worked at Balenciaga between 2015 to 2018under its then creative director Demna on the brand’s angular, oversized collections.

Rose replaces Pierpaolo Piccioli, who is departing from the company after just 16 months. Prior to his time at Balenciaga, Piccioli was creative director at Valentino from 2008 to 2024.

Gianfranco Gianangeli, president and chief executive of Balenciaga, said: “Martine Rose is an extraordinary creative talent with a bold and highly distinctive vision. Her ability to challenge conventions, reinvent silhouettes and bring an unexpected perspective to fashion resonates deeply with the spirit of innovation that defines Balenciaga.

“We are delighted to welcome her as Creative Director and look forward to this exciting new chapter for the House.”

Rose’s appointment was explicitly linked to her connection with a new generation of the fashion industry.

Critics have accused Piccioli of derivative work at Balenciaga, replicating the haute couture gowns which he had made his trademark at Valentino. In July, reviewing Piccioli’s debut for Balenciaga, the Cut’s fashion critic-at-large described the collection as “pomp and pomposity, and no purpose”.

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