Saint Laurent ends decade-long tenure of designer Vaccarello as part of wider Kering revamp

Belgian fashion designer Anthony Vaccarello is stepping down as the creative director of Saint Laurent, the brand's owner Kering announced on Friday. Vaccarello, who took over the role in 2016, succeeded Hedi Slimane and is set to be replaced soon. During his decade-long tenure, Vaccarello transformed Saint Laurent into a global powerhouse, capitalizing on strong Chinese demand that drove the brand's annual sales to exceed €3 billion in 2023.

However, the brand has faced a slowdown in recent years, with gross revenues falling by 9% and 6% in 2024 and 2025, before stabilizing this year.

Vaccarello's departure coincides with Kering CEO Luca de Meo's efforts to revamp the group after years of decline. The luxury industry slowdown has prompted designer changes at other Kering brands, including Gucci, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta. Industry experts speculate that Chemena Kamali, currently the creative director at Chloe and a former womenswear design director at Saint Laurent, might be the next creative director at Saint Laurent.