Introduction

After ten years at the helm of one of fashion's most iconic houses, Anthony Vaccarello is stepping down as creative director of Saint Laurent. The announcement comes just days after the brand presented its spring 2027 runway show in Paris, marking the end of a transformative era for the Kering-owned label.

What Happened

Vaccarello was appointed creative director in 2016, entering the role without a background in men's wear and facing the weight of Hedi Slimane's legacy. He spent his early seasons finding his footing, culminating in a breakthrough 2018 men's show inspired by 1970s New York, featuring shirtless models draped in glittering silver paint. The momentum built over the years, especially after a 2022 desert runway in Morocco's Agafay Desert, near the late Yves Saint Laurent's resting place, where the collection embraced raw, elemental drama. Under Vaccarello, Saint Laurent became a staple on red carpets worldwide. Celebrities including Austin Butler, Hailey Bieber, Zoe Kravitz, and Rami Malek regularly wore the house's designs, and the brand expanded its reach through viral campaigns and high-profile ambassadors.

Why This Matters

The departure signals a pivotal moment for Saint Laurent as it searches for a new creative direction under Kering's ownership. Vaccarello's tenure redefined the brand's modern identity, blending Parisian heritage with bold, sensual silhouettes that resonated across Hollywood and global pop culture. His interpretation of the suit, often softened with intricate detailing and unconventional materials, reshaped red-carpet expectations. With the house now preparing to name a successor, the fashion world will be watching how the brand preserves its evolving aesthetic while charting a new course.

Key Takeaways

  • Anthony Vaccarello served as creative director of Saint Laurent for a full decade, overseeing a complete reinvention of the house's modern identity.
  • His 2022 desert runway, staged near Yves Saint Laurent's burial site in Marrakech, remains one of the most memorable moments of his tenure.
  • Celebrity ambassadors such as Austin Butler, Hailey Bieber, and Rami Malek helped cement the brand's red-carpet dominance.
  • The designer's signature suit aesthetic, softer, moodier, and distinctly sensual, became a hallmark of contemporary luxury menswear.
  • Saint Laurent will soon announce a new creative director, beginning a fresh chapter for the storied fashion house.

Conclusion

Anthony Vaccarello's exit marks the close of a significant chapter in Saint Laurent's history. As the house prepares to introduce its next creative leader, the impact of Vaccarello's vision, particularly his power to make the suit feel both intimate and electric, will likely influence the brand's direction for years to come. Fashion followers should stay tuned as Kering moves quickly to fill the role.