After 25 years at Valentino—eight of which were spent at its helm—creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli is stepping down from his post to make way for “a new creative organisation.”
The Maison and Piccioli announced the parting of ways in joint statement released to the world on March 23. In his time at the top, the latter significantly shaped and deftly modernised the house’s trajectory with a technical skill evidenced in his spectacular couture collections (never forget Chantilly) and ready-to-wear.
“I’ve been in this company for 25 years, and for 25 years I’ve existed and I’ve lived with the people who have woven the weaves of this beautiful story that is mine and ours,” Piccioli began. “Everything existed and exists thanks to the people I met, with whom I worked, with whom I shared dreams and created beauty, with whom I built something that belongs to all, and that remains immutable and tangible. This heritage of love, dreams, beauty and humanity, I carry it with me, today and forever.
“This is the beauty that we have created: life, hope, opportunity and gratitude, and my people, my heart, and the love that gives you all the possibilities of the world, especially those that you could not imagine alone,” he continued. “Thanks to Mr. Valentino and Giancarlo Giammetti who have blessed me with their trust, thanks to every single person who made this possible in one way or another, it was a privilege and an honour to share my journey, and my dreams, with you.”
Jacopo Venturini, Valentino’s CEO also released a statement.
“I am grateful to Pierpaolo for his role as Creative Director and for his vision, commitment and creativity that have brought the Maison Valentino to what it stands for today,” he said.
Rachid Mohamed Rachid, Chairman of the Maison extended his thanks to Piccioli.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Pierpaolo for writing an important chapter in the history of the Maison Valentino. His contribution over the past 25 years will leave an indelible mark.”
The news follows Dries Van Noten’s retirement announcement this week. Maison Valentino promises the configuration of the new creative organisation will be announced soon.
More to come.
This story first appeared on GRAZIA International.