Martine Rose is taking her independent fashion vision to one of the world’s most recognizable luxury brands.
The British-Jamaican designer has been named creative director of Balenciaga, making her the first woman to lead the brand creatively in its 109-year history and only the second Black woman to head a major European luxury fashion house, following Grace Wales Bonner’s appointment at Hermès.
Kering, Balenciaga’s parent company, announced the appointment on Nov. 6, with Rose scheduled to begin her Paris-based role Nov. 16. She succeeds Pierpaolo Piccioli, whose departure was announced after approximately 16 months leading the French luxury house.
“It is a true privilege to be appointed Creative Director of Balenciaga, a House with an extraordinary heritage and a fearless creative spirit,” Rose said in a statement. “Balenciaga has been shaped by remarkable creative talents before me. I am committed to honoring this legacy and look forward to creating the next chapter in this rich and beautiful story.”
The appointment represents a significant milestone for Rose, who launched her independent fashion label in London in 2007. Over nearly two decades, she has built an internationally...