Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Unexpected Exit: Valentino’s Creative Director Departs After 25 Years

Pierpaolo Piccoli is parting ways with Valentino after serving as the Roman couture house’s sole creative director for almost eight years. The company described the departure as a “joint decision” and mentioned that a new creative setup will be announced soon.

Piccoli’s association with Valentino spans back to 1999 when he joined to oversee accessories alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri. Following founder Valentino Garavani’s retirement in 2007, Piccoli and Chiuri were chosen to lead the brand’s creative direction. In 2016, Piccoli took on the role of sole creative director after Chiuri moved to Dior.

In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, Piccioli looked back on his 25-year journey with the brand, expressing gratitude to co-founders Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti, as well as the team that played a vital role in the brand’s achievements during his tenure. Renowned for bringing modern romance and daring creativity to Valentino, the designer will depart as the brand readies itself for a “fresh creative structure.”

WHO IS PIERPAOLO PICCOLI?

Piccioli became a part of the company 25 years ago and assumed the role of creative director for the luxury fashion house in 2016. Piccioli was raised in Nettuno, Italy, and pursued a degree in literature at Rome University. He gained experience through internships at Brunello Cucinelli and later joined Fendi alongside Chiuri after graduating. In a 2011 interview with Luke Leitch, Piccioli discussed his and Chiuri’s approach to directing design at Valentino, stating, “We maintain the essence but alter the perspective.” This approach was reflected in their early collections at Valentino, which revitalized traditional elements like ruffles, bows, and the iconic red color, while introducing new elements such as the Rockstud motif. His debut collection in October 2016, following Chiuri’s departure, showcased Piccioli’s distinctive vision of unrestrained romanticism and fantasy.

The Autumn/Winter 2024 show was described as a “manifesto in black on black,” exploring progress in 63 different ways. In his spring/summer 2023 collection, which commenced with a pristine white theme, Pierpaolo Piccioli conveyed his creative response to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s controversial statement regarding women needing conservative attire to prevent assault. His subsequent black-themed collection offered various options for women to express themselves freely, ranging from hip-slashed skirts to the possibility of full-frontal red carpet exposure in transparent Valentino lace.Throughout his time, he styled celebrities such as Florence Pugh and Rihanna for the Met Gala, as well as Zendaya, Emily Blunt, and Carey Mulligan for the Academy Awards. He gained recognition for his vibrant color choice called PP Pink, which gained popularity and became a trend in the Barbiecore colour palette.

Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Top Valentino  Moments

Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Valentino Delivered Stunning Red Carpet Moments. Who Could Forget Rihanna’s Memorable Appearance at the 2023 Met Gala in a White Drop-Waisted Dress with a Dramatic Train? Carey Mulligan Also Stunned in a Bold Gold Two-Piece Ensemble at the 2021 Oscars. Additionally, Piccioli’s Iconic ‘PP Pink’ Collection Garnered Attention, with Celebrities Eager to Showcase the Vibrant Shade on the Red Carpet.

The announcement may disappoint fashion enthusiasts who have closely followed Piccioli’s journey, and his numerous celebrity fans will also feel a sense of loss. Celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Naomi Campbell, Florence Pugh, and Zendaya have been captivated by the designer’s artistic designs. The vibrant pink shade will always be associated with his lasting impact and legacy.

Piccioli’s departure from the fashion scene will be felt deeply, with celebrities such as Campbell, Gigi Hadid, Kate Hudson, and Emily Ratajkowski, along with fellow designers, expressing their support in response to his Instagram announcement. Valentino has yet to reveal Piccioli’s  successor but a new creative director will be disclosed shortly. For more details you can refer to this vogue article.