Who is Sabato De Sarno? Get to Know the New Gucci Creative Director
A new era at Gucci has begun.
Gucci recently announced Sabato De Sarno will be appointed creative director, ending months of speculation as to who would replace Alessandro Michele, whose shocking departure from Gucci after seven years left an impact on the brand. A favorite of Harry Styles, Jared Leto, and many more of the so-called "Gucci Gang," Michele’s work during his time at the house saw collaborations with Adidas and Balenciaga, as well as eccentric and gender-fluid designs that made the luxury house one of the most worn brands today.
De Sarno, 39, was born in Naples, Italy. His work spans roles at Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, and Valentino, where, for the last 13 years, he's led both men’s and women’s ready-to-wear and was known as Pierpaolo Piccioli's "right-hand man." Sources say De Sarno has been also influential in bringing a more commercially contemporary aesthetic to Piccioli's work at Valentino.
De Sarno already holds an impressive resume, “having worked with a number of Italy’s most renowned luxury fashion houses, he brings with him a vast and relevant experience,” Marco Bizzarri, Gucci's president and CEO, stated. “I am certain that through Sabato’s deep understanding and appreciation for Gucci's unique legacy, he will lead our creative teams with a distinctive vision that will help write this exciting next chapter, reinforcing the House’s fashion authority while capitalizing on its rich heritage."
As the newly appointed creative director, De Sarno will head Gucci’s women’s and men’s, accessories, leather goods, and lifestyle. “I am proud to join a House with such an extraordinary history and heritage, that over the years has been able to welcome and cherish values I believe in,” he stated.
While Gucci is scheduled to present its Fall/Winter 2023 collection later this month, the Naples-born designer continues to fulfill his duties at Valentino. He will make his debut for the brand during Milan Fashion Week in September 2023 for the Spring/Summer 2024 season.
