Anthony Vaccarello Steps Down as Creative Director of Saint Laurent After a Decade

Belgian designer Anthony Vaccarello is stepping down from his post as creative director of French luxury fashion house Saint Laurent, concluding a decade-long tenure leading the storied brand. Parent company Kering confirmed the designer's exit on Friday in an official statement, announcing that Saint Laurent plans to reveal its new creative leadership in the near future, according to reporting by Complex.\n\nVaccarello originally assumed creative control of Saint Laurent in April 2016, taking over the role from outgoing designer Hedi Slimane.

Over his ten years at the helm of the Parisian label, he guided both the design evolution and commercial expansion of the house. According to details reported by Complex, Vaccarello oversaw a major financial surge during his leadership, successfully pushing Saint Laurent's annual sales past the 3 billion euro milestone.\n\nIn more recent financial reporting periods, however, overall sales performance at the luxury house experienced a drop. Complex reported that Saint Laurent revenues fell by 9 percent in 2024, followed by an additional decline of 6 percent in 2025, which brought annual revenues down to 2.64 billion euros.

Despite these recent financial headwinds, Vaccarello maintained a prominent standing in fashion through his signature runway presentations and distinct aesthetic style.\n\nThe designer's final runway show for Saint Laurent featured an all-gold spring 2027 collection staged as a major visual spectacle in Paris. According to reporting by Complex, the presentation took place beneath three monumental chandeliers set up in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. High-profile figures and celebrity guests turned up in droves to show their support as Vaccarello commemorated a decade at the helm of the house.\n\nExecutive leadership across parent conglomerate Kering and Saint Laurent acknowledged Vaccarello's legacy upon the announcement of his departure.

Kering Chief Executive Officer Luca de Meo expressed sincere gratitude to Vaccarello in a press release, stating that his creative vision and exacting standards contributed to strengthening the enduring influence of one of France's greatest couture houses as it begins a new chapter.\n\nSaint Laurent President and Chief Executive Officer Cedric Charbit also offered high praise for the departing creative director. Charbit stated in an official release that Vaccarello took Saint Laurent on a remarkable trajectory over his ten years of dedication, elevating the brand to the forefront of desirability and image while accomplishing exceptional creative work and cultural impact, as reported by Complex.\n\nAs Saint Laurent prepares for its upcoming transition, the luxury industry awaits official word regarding who will succeed Vaccarello and steer design operations moving forward.

Complex reported that Saint Laurent plans to announce its new creative leadership soon, though specific executive timing and candidate details have not yet been disclosed by the company.