Alexander Wang caused a stir in the fashion industry when he revealed he would be leaving Balenciaga, presenting his final collection for the brand at Paris Fashion Week last week. Now, the French fashion house have confirmed that Demna Gvasalia will be taking over Alexander's role as artistic director.
Alexander Wang's replacement at Balenciaga has been revealed
The relatively unknown designer has already worked for major brands including Louis Vuitton and Maison Martin Margiela, his most recent stint seeing him create collections for luxury label Vetements. He will unveil his first designs for Balenciaga at next season's Fashion Week in March 2016.
"We really wanted somebody that has a vision, and someone capable of reshuffling the cards," Balenciaga chief executive officer and president Isabelle Guichot explained to WWD. "I was really amazed by his ability to develop an approach to the brand that was really new and that was really his own…what should be the attitude, what should be the silhouette, what should be the volumes."
"I am extremely honored and excited to be given the opportunity to bring my creative vision to Balenciaga, a house with such an exceptional history of pushing the boundaries of modernity in fashion,” added Demna. "I am looking forward to further [expand] the DNA of the house and, together with the team, to write a new chapter in its history."
The designer will continue to focus on his eponymous label
Balenciaga confirmed Alexander Wang's departure was "a mutual decision" after weeks of speculation that the designer would not be renewing his contract.
"It's been an incredible experience to work with a couture house in Paris," said Alexander in a statement. "I am honoured to have had the opportunity to work for this historical maison. I would like to thank the brilliant team at Balenciaga for their collaboration and for what we have accomplished together, and I am looking forward to taking my own brand to its next level of growth."
