Fashion weeks to witness a changing of the designer guard

If the past few years have seen the fashion industry engage in a prolonged game of creative director jigsaw, then this is the week when the pieces of the puzzle should - in theory - fall into place.

- Scarlett Conlon

In 2025 more than 10 of the world's most influential fashion brands including Dior, Versace, Chanel, and Gucci - have awaited the arrival of a new head designer, creating an unprecedented limbo period that has left both the industry and consumers holding their breath.

In Milan last week, several new visions were outlined. Former Bally designer Simone Bellotti laid out his highly crafted vision at Jil Sander. At Versace, Dario Vitale filled the shoes previously worn by Donatella Versace for the past 30 years, showcasing his first collection in a decadent private home turned museum. Former Balenciaga designer Demna revealed his vision for Gucci via a Spike Jonze-directed film. And at Bottega Veneta, British designer Louise Trotter took the reins from her predecessor Matthieu Blazy.