Anthony Vaccarello exits Saint Laurent after a decade

Kering, the parent company of luxury fashion label Saint Laurent, has announced that creative director Anthony Vaccarello has left the prestigious brand after a decade. The fashion giant's president and chief executive, Cedric Charbit, lauded Vaccarello for his devotion to the company, praising his instrumental role in transforming Saint Laurent's identity and impact within fashion and culture. Under his leadership, the house saw a considerable trajectory, elevating it to the forefront of desirability and image.

Kering's CEO, Luca de Meo, added that Vaccarello's creative vision and high standards contributed to reinforcing the enduring influence of one of France's finest couture houses as they embark on a new chapter in their history. The Belgian designer was known for his flair for the dramatic, conceptualizing shows under the Eiffel Tower that featured razor-sharp tailoring, sheer mini dresses, and striking eveningwear.

His final collection for Saint Laurent, presented on September 29, was filled with gilded pieces that gradually faded into the night, often considered as a farewell to the house.

Vaccarello was appointed in 2016, succeeding Hedi Slimane. He infused the house's monochromatic codes with greater colors, volume, and sensuality. His tenure saw a threefold increase in the house's revenue to €3.3 billion, before it dipped to €2.6 billion in 2025 due to a broader slowdown in luxury spending. Vaccarello's influence extended beyond fashion; in 2023, Saint Laurent launched its own film-production arm.

His departure comes amid broader changes at Kering, with CEO De Meo overseeing an 18-month revamp aimed at reviving the group's brands, including plans to expand Saint Laurent's menswear and jewellery collections.

The challenge for the designer chosen to succeed Vaccarello will be to navigate Saint Laurent into a new direction while maintaining the distinctive glamour that characterized the house during Vaccarello's decade-long tenure. Kering has not yet announced a successor, but Chemena Kamali, who currently directs Chloe, is being speculated as a potential replacement.