Milan – mystery solved. On Saturday morning, Kering and Gucci announced Sabato de Sarno as the Italian brand’s new creative director, replacing Alessandro Michele, who left last November.
His first show will bow during Milan Fashion Week in September.
De Sarno, who will report to President and CEO Marco Bizzarri, grew up in Naples and started his career at Prada in 2005 before moving on to Dolce & Gabbana, holding positions of responsibility before joining Valentino in 2009, where he was eventually promoted to fashion. Director in charge of men’s and women’s collections.
“I am delighted that Sabato is joining Gucci as the house’s new creative director, one of the most influential roles in the luxury industry,” said Bizzarri. “Having worked with many of Italy’s leading luxury fashion houses, he brings with him extensive and relevant experience. With his deep understanding and appreciation of Gucci’s unique heritage, I am confident that he will lead our creative teams with a unique vision that will help us write this exciting next chapter, leveraging its rich heritage and strengthening the House’s fashion authority.
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, said: “One hundred and two years after Guccio Gucci opened its first store in Florence, Gucci is one of the most famous, renowned and influential luxury houses in the world. With Sabato de Sarno at the creative helm, we are confident that the house will influence fashion and culture with highly sought-after products and collections, bringing a singular and modern vision to modern luxury.
“I am honored to take on the role of creative director of Gucci. I am proud to join a house with such an extraordinary history and heritage that has allowed me to embrace and nurture the values I believe in for years. I am excited and excited to contribute my creative vision to the brand,” said De Sarno.
