Fendi has announced the appointment of Maria Grazia Chiuri as its new Chief Creative Officer, marking a significant return for the designer to the Roman Maison where she began her career.
Maria Grazia Chiuri – credit Paola Mattioli
Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH Group, praised Chiuri’s appointment, saying: “Maria Grazia Chiuri is one of the greatest creative talents in fashion today, and I am delighted that she has chosen to return to Fendi to continue expressing her creativity within the LVMH group, after sharing her bold vision of fashion. Surrounded by the Fendi teams and in a city that is dear to her, I am convinced that Maria Grazia will contribute to the artistic renewal and future success of the Maison, while perpetuating its unique heritage.”
Ramon Ros, Fendi’s Chairman and CEO, echoed this sentiment and highlighted the modern evolution of the creative leadership role. “I’m thrilled to welcome Maria Grazia into the team. The role of a creative director is no longer to simply design beautiful clothes but to curate a culture and hold a mirror to the world we live in. Her talent and vision will be instrumental in fortifying Fendi’s heritage, shaping the future talent in the house and deepening our commitment to Italian craftsmanship,” he said.
Chiuri, who previously served as Creative Director at Dior, began her career at Fendi under the guidance of the brand’s founders — the five Fendi sisters. Reflecting on her return, she said: “I return to Fendi with honour and joy, having had the privilege of beginning my career under the guidance of the House’s founders, the five sisters. Fendi has always been a forge of talents and a starting point for many creatives in the industry, thanks to the extraordinary ability of these five women to foster and nurture generations of vision and skill.”
She continued: “I am grateful to Mr. Arnault for entrusting me with the task of helping to write a new chapter in the history of this extraordinary women-founded company.”
Chiuri will present her first collection for the house, Fendi Fall/Winter 2026–2027, during Milan Fashion Week next February. The announcement marks a new era for the historic Roman brand, uniting Chiuri’s vision of culture and craftsmanship with Fendi’s longstanding commitment to creativity and Italian excellence.
