Gucci appointed Sabato De Sarno, a senior fashion designer at Valentino, as the Italian brand’s new creative director. De Sarno will succeed Alessandro Michele, who left Gucci in November after seven years as creative director.
“I am deeply honored to take on the role as Creative Director of Gucci,” De Sarno said in an official statement. “I am proud to join a House with such an extraordinary history and heritage, that over the years has been able to welcome and cherish values I believe in. I am touched and excited to contribute my creative vision for the brand.”
Prior to joining the Valentino back in 2009, De Sarno spent time at Prada and Dolce & Gabbana.
“I am delighted that Sabato will join Gucci as the House’s new Creative Director, one of the most influential roles in the luxury industry,” Gucci CEO Marco Bizzarri added. “Having worked with a number of Italy’s most renowned luxury fashion houses, he brings with him a vast and relevant experience. I am certain that through Sabato’s deep understanding and appreciation for Gucci’s unique legacy, he will lead our creative teams with a distinctive vision that will help write this exciting next chapter, reinforcing the House’s fashion authority while capitalizing on its rich heritage.”
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman & CEO of Kering, the French luxury goods group which owns Gucci said: “One hundred and two years after Guccio Gucci opened his first store in Florence, Gucci remains one of the most iconic, prominent and influential luxury houses in the world. With Sabato De Sarno at the creative helm, we are confident that the House will continue both to influence fashion and culture through highly desirable products and collections, and to bring a singular and contemporary perspective to modern luxury.”
De Sarno will make his runway debut at Milan Fashion Week in September.
