Italian multinational holding company OTB, founded by Renzo Rosso, is making several changes in terms of creative directors, since at the end of January it was announced the appointment of Glenn Martens as creative director of Maison Margiela and therefore successor to John Galliano, and earlier this week we found out the name of Simone Bellotti, who succeeds Lucie and Luke Meier at Jil Sander.

The news came as a surprise to some, as Bellotti’s was not on the list of names being considered for the position, but that’s how the fashion industry is, it suddenly surprises you, and sometimes positively.

For those who don’t know much about Simone, he is a designer raised in Milan (Italy) and academically trained in Antwerp (Belgium). After that, he worked in different renowned fashion houses such as Gianfranco Ferré, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, or Bottega Veneta, until he became Creative Director of Bally, where he brought a new perspective and artistic influence and was known for his great obsession for detail and how well he interpreted archival references.

Both parties are more than happy to welcome the appointment, and Renzo Rosso – President of OTB Group – commented: “Simone embarks on this journey with extensive experience and a distinct talent. Over the time spent together we shared the strategic vision and mission for Jil Sander, the values of innovation and sophistication that make it an iconic and unique brand”.

While Simone Bellotti added: “I am incredibly honored to join Jil Sander, a storied house that created a new aesthetic with its unique approach and strong identity, and that has always had such a significant influence on the design community. I am grateful to Renzo for the trust, and I am keen to contribute to the house’s full potential”.

Congratulations to Simone on becoming the new Creative Director of Jil Sander. Needless to say, how excited we are to see the direction he takes the brand in.