In a stunning move, Maria Grazia Chiuri is making her grand return to the fashion world, taking on the role of Chief Creative Officer at Fendi. But this isn't just any comeback; it's a homecoming.
The Fashion Industry's Buzzing with Excitement
After her departure from Dior in May, the industry was abuzz with speculation about Chiuri's next move. And now, the news is out: she's heading back to Fendi, the iconic Italian fashion house, which, like Dior, is under the LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton umbrella. This marks a significant shift in Chiuri's career, as she first started at Fendi in 1989, playing a pivotal role in elevating the brand's accessories game.
Bernard Arnault, the chairman and CEO of LVMH, expressed his enthusiasm: "Maria Grazia Chiuri is a creative powerhouse, and her decision to rejoin Fendi is a testament to her passion and vision. With her at the helm, I'm confident that Fendi will not only preserve its rich heritage but also embark on a journey of artistic innovation."
A New Era for Fendi's Womenswear
Chiuri's impact will be immediate, with her first womenswear collection for Fall 2026 set to debut in Milan in February, as revealed by Fendi's chairman and CEO, Ramon Ros. This will be followed by menswear in June and couture in July, marking a significant shift in the brand's strategy. Ros emphasized that having a single creative leader will bring consistency and long-term vision to Fendi's narrative.
But here's where it gets controversial: Ros believes this moment of uncertainty in the industry can be an opportunity, but only if creativity is the driving force. He asserts that Chiuri's determination, mastery of her craft, and strong vision will cut through the noise and create a lasting creative legacy.
A Visionary's Return to Her Roots
Chiuri's statement reflects her deep connection to Fendi: "Returning to Fendi is an honor and a joy. I began my journey under the mentorship of the house's founders, the five sisters, and Fendi has always been a breeding ground for exceptional talent. I'm grateful to Mr. Arnault for the opportunity to contribute to the legacy of this remarkable women-founded company."
The appointment of Silvia Venturini Fendi as honorary president further fuels the anticipation. After Kim Jones' departure as artistic director, these changes signal a new era for the brand.
Ros highlights the alignment between Fendi and Chiuri's values, emphasizing Italian artisanal craftsmanship and the creation of unique, long-lasting products. He believes Chiuri's previous experience at Fendi will help showcase the brand's history and future potential, bringing more attention to its rich archive.
A Dynamic Duo Reunites
Ros first met Chiuri during the summer while finalizing candidates for the role. He admires her leadership, consistency, and deep understanding of the fashion industry. Chiuri's ability to connect with customers and interpret global trends is exceptional, according to Ros, who believes designers should also be sociologists.
Delfina Delettrez Fendi, Silvia's daughter, will continue to lead the brand's jewelry collections. Fendi has been a launching pad for numerous designers, including Pierpaolo Piccioli, Alessandro Michele, and Frida Giannini, who have gone on to lead major fashion houses.
Silvia Venturini Fendi, representing the third generation of the Fendi family, has been a pivotal figure in the brand's artistic direction. Her recent spring 2026 collection, showcased in Milan, was a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship and creativity.
Chiuri and Venturini Fendi share a friendly rapport, with Venturini Fendi attending Chiuri's final Dior show in May. The leadership changes at Fendi also include the appointment of Ramon Ros as CEO, bringing his experience from Louis Vuitton.
A Legacy at Dior and Beyond
Chiuri's tenure at Dior was groundbreaking. As the first woman to lead the creation of women's collections, she left an indelible mark on the brand's history. Her collections, featuring iconic Dior signatures, contributed to the company's remarkable revenue growth. Chiuri's global shows in cities like Tokyo, Athens, and Seoul celebrated local artists and artisans, leaving a lasting impact.
Her journey began at Valentino in 1999, where she collaborated with Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti. Chiuri's talent was evident in the success of the Baguette bag at Fendi and the Rockstud pump at Valentino. After 17 years at Valentino, she and Piccioli moved to Fendi, where they revitalized the accessories category. Their creative partnership has been a driving force in the industry.
As Chiuri takes on this new role, the fashion world eagerly awaits the creative magic she will bring to Fendi. Will her unique vision and leadership propel Fendi to new heights? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the exciting future of this iconic fashion house.
