Photo: Victor Boyko/Getty Images
Just over a week after Lucie and Luke Meier departed the Jil Sander brand (following a final runway show and eight years as co-creative directors), their singular successor has been named: Simone Bellotti.
Jil Sander and its parent OTB Group announced Bellotti’s appointment on Monday morning. In a press release, Renzo Rosso, Chairman of OTB Group, said, “Simone embarks on this journey with extensive experience and a distinct talent. Over the time spent together we shared the strategic vision and mission for Jil Sander, the values of innovation and sophistication that make it an iconic and unique brand.”
Bellotti brings with him a hefty fashion resumé, most recently leading creative direction at Bally after a 16-year design tenure at Gucci. He previously spent several years in senior leadership positions at Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta and Gianfranco Ferré. Prior to these roles, Bellotti graduated from Istituto Secoli, a historic, high-level fashion design school in the heart of Milan.
“I am incredibly honored to join Jil Sander, a storied house that created a new aesthetic with its unique approach and strong identity, and that has always had such a significant influence on the design community,” said Bellotti in a release. “I am grateful to Renzo for the trust, and I am keen to contribute to the house’s full potential.”
Rumors of Bellotti joining Jil Sander first started swirling in January, citing shakeups at Bally following the sale of the brand and the sudden departure of CEO Nicolas Girotto — the executive responsible for tapping Bellotti.
With his new role going into effect immediately, Bellotti’s first collection as creative director of Jil Sander will debut this September on the Spring 2026 runway.
Source: Fashionista.com