ALESSANDRO DELL’ACQUA.
It would almost be unusual to end the fashion season without having the industry playing another round of musical chairs: parting ways with reputed designers and announcing new appointments in leading positions. For this Spring 2014 season, Rochas, Schiaparelli, and Loewe are making headlines with new announcements.
After five successful years as the Creative Director of French fashion house, Rochas, Marco Zanini and the brand have come to the mutual decision to part ways. We reported on Zanini’s final Spring 2014 collection for Rochas as a collection “where über femininity meets iridescent futurism,” with Zanini having “an innate understanding of what goes on in a woman’s head.”
“As an iconic French Maison, Rochas has been an endless source of inspiration for me. I learned a lot over the past five years and I feel fortunate to have been part of such a wonderful adventure,” explained the Italian designer, who has also just been confirmed to take the helm at Schiaparelli, and announced his debut collection will be presented during Paris Haute Couture, in January 2014.
Following the announcement of Zanini’s departure, Rochas immediately appointed Alessandro Dell’Acqua as the new Creative Director. Dell’Acqua has already made a name for himself with his eponymous brand, and his newest label No.21, founded in 2010. His debut for Rochas will be the upcoming Fall 2014 womenswear collection, next February in Paris.
“I’m excited about this collaboration,” stated Dell’Acqua. “Rochas is synonymous with French sophistication and a couture spirit, and as a designer, I could not ask for anything more inspiring. Working for a Maison with such a historical heritage is a rare opportunity, and I feel grateful it was given to me.”
On his side, Irish designer, Jonathan Anderson, killed two birds with one stone. Not only did LVMH announce an agreement with the designer for the development of his London-based J.W. Anderson brand, but Anderson was also just appointed Creative Director of Loewe.
“For me, the process that led to this exciting partnership has been a natural one. LVMH has the resources and expertise in sharp, modern luxury, and I believe we can work together to create something new,” declared Anderson. “I am equally thrilled to join the house of Loewe, one of the oldest leather-goods houses in the world, where I have found an exceptional craftsmanship, combined with purity and lightness.”
