Who Will Be Balenciaga’s Next Creative Director?

Demna’s exit has left a void at Balenciaga, and the fashion world is already placing bets on who might step in.

Balenciaga's London Flagship Store | Source: Balenciaga
Balenciaga’s London Flagship Store | Source: Balenciaga

Balenciaga is facing a creative void, and we’re all at the edge of our seats about who will take the helm. With Demna’s departure, speculation around who will define the next chapter of one of fashion’s most influential houses is intensifying. Four visionary designers have emerged as frontrunners, each capable of reshaping the brand’s narrative.

Pierpaolo Piccioli
Pierpaolo Piccioli | Source: Lisa Immordino Vreeland
Pierpaolo Piccioli | Source: Lisa Immordino Vreeland

Pierpaolo Piccioli’s recent exit from Valentino has positioned him as a tantalizing possibility. Known for his emotional, romantic aesthetic, Piccioli could bring fresh softness and depth to Balenciaga’s famously edgy identity.


John Galliano
John Galliano | Source: John Galliano
John Galliano | Source: John Galliano

John Galliano’s name evokes a legacy of theatricality and bold design. Known for his transformative tenures at Dior and Maison Margiela, Galliano’s unparalleled approach to storytelling through fashion positions him as an intriguing wildcard in Balenciaga’s succession narrative.


Pieter Mulier
Pieter Mulier | Photographed by Craig McDean
Pieter Mulier | Photographed by Craig McDean

Pieter Mulier, currently at the helm of Alaïa, brings compelling credentials to the conversation. His knack for seamlessly merging heritage craftsmanship with modern sensibilities makes him uniquely suited to fill the void left by Demna’s departure. Having closely collaborated with Raf Simons at Calvin Klein and Dior, Mulier is well-equipped to navigate the pressures of leading an iconic fashion house.

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Martine Rose
Martine Rose | Photographed by Andreas Larsson
Martine Rose | Photographed by Andreas Larsson

Martine Rose, known for her nuanced approach to menswear and previous collaborations with Balenciaga, emerges as a strong contender. Her ability to blend subcultural references with contemporary design could offer a seamless transition for the brand.

As the industry awaits an official announcement, the speculation underscores the significance of Balenciaga’s next chapter.

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Balenciaga John Galliano