Gucci Names Alessandro Michele Creative Director

Gucci and parent company Kering (Paris) have named Alessandro Michele creative director of the Italian luxury brand, confirming speculation that that Michele was likely to take over Frida Giannini’s role.

Michele, 42, first worked with Giannini at Fendi as senior accessories designer. He joined Gucci’s design team in 2002 and was promoted associate to Giannini in May 2011. Last September, he was also named creative director of fine porcelain brand Richard Ginori, acquired by Gucci in June 2013. He also helped to create the brand’s new store concept in Florence that was unveiled in June, reports Women’s Wear Daily.

In December, Giannini resigned, along with her partner, and Gucci’s chief executive, Patrizio di Marco, then was abruptly dismissed last week, according to The New York Times.