An era has come to an end with Alessandro Michele stepping down as creative director of Gucci.
The Italian fashion designer made the announcement on Instagram yesterday and wrote that that departure was due to "different perspectives" but noted that while "an extraordinary journey ends for me, lasting more than twenty years, within a company to which I have tirelessly dedicated all my love and creative passion", that he was grateful for working with a brand that "has been my home, my adopted family."
After joining Gucci in 2002, on the invitation of then creative director Tom Ford, he eventually took on the role in 2015. During his 7 year tenure, he oversaw the direction of Gucci's brand continuing the upward trend started by Ford. He also worked for luxury house Fendi, along with Karl Lagerfield, in the 90s.
Michele has designed for many celebrities including Harry Styles, Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, Beyonce and Jaden Smith.
Harry Styles for Gucci, Instagram: @alessandro_michele
In 2022 he attended the Met Gala with actor Jared Leto twinning in matching Gucci suits.
Katy Perry, Alessandro Michele, Jared Leto and Billie Eilish at the 2022 Met Gala Instagram: @alessandro_michele
Michele has been a foothold in the company for the past 20 years, an integral part in reinventing and propelling the brand as a major fashion house today.
The news came as a sort of surprise to the public as there was no forewarning. Gucci (through patent company Kerig) also issued a statement:
"Alessandro Michele has been at the creative helm of the House since January 21st, 2015, and has played a fundamental part in making the brand what it is today through his groundbreaking creativity, while staying true to the renowned codes of the House."
It is unknown who will be taking the reigns or what plans Michele has for the future.
Cover Image: Instagram, @alessandro_michele