Fashion

All the Prominent Designers Shuffling Between Major Fashion Brands

It's fashion's neverending carousel.

beard face head person finger hand hat cap photography portrait

The constant evolution of talent has significantly shaped the luxury fashion industry's landscape. Renowned designers have made waves through their collections and are transitioning between top brands, creating a dynamic merry-go-round of creativity and influence. 

This ongoing movement underscores the interconnectedness of the fashion world. The shift of one designer can ripple through the entire industry, leading to innovative collaborations and reinvigorated brands. As we watch these changes unfold, it’s clear that the search for the next big vision is always underway.

Amidst this shuffle, other notable figures find themselves in a transitional period. Hedi Slimane, known for his striking impact at various luxury houses, is currently a name to watch as he navigates potential new opportunities after his recent departure from Celine. Similarly, former Prada designer Fabio Zambernardi made headlines when he departed from the brand and has yet to assume a new role, adding to the intrigue of the current designer landscape. Other brands that are currently looking for Creative Directors include Chanel, Dries Van Noten and Missoni. 

Below, L'OFFICIEL has rounded up all the designers bouncing between different luxury brands.

John Galliano 

John Galliano. Getty Images.

Galliano's rise to fame began in 1995 when he was appointed the head designer at Givenchy. In 1996, Galliano made a monumental move to Christian Dior, where he served as the creative director for 15 years.  However, Galliano's time at Dior ended in 2011 after he was caught making anti-Semitic remarks at a Paris café. Galliano's career had a revival in 2013 when he collaborated with Oscar de la Renta for a short-term stint, helping design the Fall/Winter 2013 collection. In 2014, Galliano was appointed the creative director of Maison Margiela. However, there are rumours of Galliano leaving Margiela within the next month. 

Alessandro Michele

Alessandro Michele. Getty Images.

Michele began working under Karl Lagerfeld and Silvia Venturini Fendi at Fendi at the beginning of his career. Tom Ford then hired him to design bags for Gucci in 2002, and he has been there ever since until last year, when he made the switch to creative director at Valentino

Hedi Slimane 

Hedi Slimane. Getty Images.

From 2000 to 2007, Slimane was the creative director for Dior Homme. Then, from 2012 to 2016, he was the creative director for Yves Saint Laurent. From February 2018 to October 2024, Slimane was Celine's creative, artistic, and image director. Slimane is currently a name to watch as he navigates potential new opportunities after his recent departure from Celine.

Michael Rider

Michael Rider. Photo courtesy of Celine.

Recently, the appointment of a new Celine creative director has shifted attention to designer Michael Rider. Formerly with Ralph Lauren, and previously at Celine under the direction of Phoebe Philo, this new appointment has stirred excitement and also has, in turn, brought about rumors of other designers coming and going in the fashion industry. This shift highlights how established names continue to explore new avenues, bringing fresh perspectives to iconic brands. 

Haider Ackermann 

Haider Ackermann with Kylie Jenner. Getty Images.

Ackermann’s early career took shape in 1998 when he began working at Dior as an intern. However, Ackermann’s breakthrough came with the launch of his eponymous label in 2003, which quickly gained critical acclaim for its elegant, draped silhouettes and expert use of leather and silk.

In 2016, Ackermann was appointed the creative director of Berluti, marking his first major leadership role at a luxury menswear brand. However, in 2018, after only three seasons, Ackermann parted ways with Berluti.

In recent years, Ackermann has embraced a new chapter of collaborations. He is now the creative director for Canada Goose and, most recently, Tom Ford. 

Tags

Recommended posts for you