Three weeks prior to the next runway show, Gucci revealed that Sabato De Sarno, its creative director of less than two years, has resigned. The design team will be responsible for creating the new collection. De Sarno’s sudden departure was announced just before Gucci’s combined menswear and womenswear collection which will launch Milan Fashion Week on February 25, is scheduled to be unveiled.
Stefano Cantino, the new CEO of Gucci thanked De Sarno for his emphasis on Gucci’s craftsmanship and heritage while Francesca Belletini, the deputy CEO of Kering, said he had “further strengthened Gucci’s fundamentals.” De Sarno, 42, was appointed creative director of the iconic Italian fashion house two years ago following the unexpected departure of Alessandro Michele, who drove the brand sales and owner Kering’s earnings with gender-fluid, electric, and romantic collections that rewrote Gucci’s codes.
The announcement coincides with a number of innovative changes at high-profile fashion businesses, such as Kim Jone’s recent resignation as the creative director of Dior’s male designs. It is essential to note that Gucci has previously made a significant late-season creative change.
According to industry experts, Gucci may be facing more serious issues as a result of this leadership change, such as pressure to continue innovating and maintaining sales momentum in a business that is extremely competitive. Investors and fashion fans alike are left wondering who will lead the next collection, even though an interim team is anticipated to oversee it.
All eyes will be on Gucci’s runway as Milan Fashion Week draws near, not only for its designs but also for any indications of the renowned brand’s future.
