British designer Martine Rose to lead Balenciaga

French luxury group Kering said Friday that British designer Martine Rose would take over at Balenciaga, following Pierpaolo Piccioli’s departure after just 18 months.
“Her appointment reflects our ambition to keep Balenciaga at the forefront of innovation, creativity and culture,” Kering chief executive Luca de Meo said.
Rose, 45, founded her namesake menswear label in London in 2007, drawing inspiration from rave, hip-hop, punk and football culture.
Born to a British-Jamaican family in Croydon, south London, she has staged shows in unconventional venues, including alleys and climbing gyms.
She previously consulted for Balenciaga’s menswear line from 2015 to 2018 under Georgian designer Demna, who is now at Gucci. Her first show is scheduled for February during Paris Fashion Week.
Rose’s celebrity admirers include Rihanna and Timothee Chalamet, while Kendrick Lamar wore a custom-made jacket for his Super Bowl halftime performance last year.
“Martine keeps a low profile, yes, but she’s the best menswear designer in the world,” French designer and fashion consultant Dryce Lahssan said.
Rose said Balenciaga “has been shaped by remarkable creative talents before me”.
“I am committed to honouring this legacy and look forward to creating the next chapter in this rich and beautiful story,” she said.
Her appointment comes amid management changes at Kering as de Meo seeks to revive sales against weaker Chinese demand and global spending concerns.
Kering recently parted ways with Alexander McQueen designer Sean McGirr and Saint Laurent’s Anthony Vaccarello. No reason was given for Piccioli’s departure, announced a day earlier. — AFP