After a little more than a year helming Balenciaga, Pierpaolo Piccioli is exiting his role as the luxury house’s creative director, Kering announced on Thursday. Piccioli’s successor has not yet been named, but Kering said “the new creative direction of Balenciaga will be announced shortly.”

“We are deeply grateful for Pierpaolo’s contribution to Balenciaga,” the house’s President and CEO Gianfranco Gianangeli said in a statement. “Through his vision, he reaffirmed the couture origins of the House, bringing his considered approach to craftsmanship, construction and creativity. I would like to sincerely thank him for his dedication, generosity and collaboration.”

Piccioli officially assumed the top position in July 2025 , succeeding Demna (who is currently Gucci’s artistic director). Rumors have been swirling about Piccioli’s potential exit for weeks, as Puck News first reported that the designer was on his way out on Oct. 23.…