BIG boots to fill, Riccardo Tisci – the previous CEO of Givenchy – has been named as Burberry’s new chief creative officer, replacing Christopher Bailey after his 17-year reign. Following the announcement of his departure in October, Bailey is leaving on a high after the overwhelming success of his final collection at Burberry and will officially bid farewell to the fashion house at the end of the month.
Burberry’s soon to be chief creative officer Riccardo Tisci
Riccardo Tisci is set to showcase his first collection as Burberry’s chief creative officer in September and given his track record, we have great expectations. Tisci made waves in the fashion industry after being appointed CEO of Givenchy by Marco Gobetti in 2005 and for being the driving force behind the brand’s resurgence. Tisci reformed Givenchy, incorporating his signature design style resulting in profitable success, restoring the brand to its former glory.
It seems fitting that Marco Gobetti – Burberry’s current chief executive – and Tisci will reunite at Burberry, following their previous triumphs at Givenchy. Gobetti said, “Riccardo is one of the most talented designers of our time. His designs have an elegance that is contemporary and his skill in blending streetwear with high fashion is highly relevant to today’s luxury consumer. Riccardo’s creative vision will reinforce the ambitions we have for Burberry and position the brand firmly in luxury”.
A bittersweet moment for the industry, although we are saddened by the departure of Christopher Bailey, we are confident that Riccardo Tisci will succeed as Burberry’s new chief creative officer and we are excited to watch the brands future unfold.
by Todd Burns