Jil Sander throws curveball naming Simone Bellotti Creative Director

Jil Sander has announced the appointment of Bally's Simone Bellotti to the role of Creative Director, effective immediately. This comes after months of speculation that Daniel Lee would take the coveted top spot.

Simone Bellotti joins Jil Sander, which is owned by the OTB Group, following a tenure as Creative Director at Bally, where he refreshed the storied brand. He is known for his obsession with detail and archival references, delving into research to inform his designs.

Bellotti succeeds design duo Lucie and Luke Meier, who stepped down from their roles last month after showing their final collection at Milan Fashion Week.

Renzo Rosso, Chairman of OTB Group, said: "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."

During his career, Bellotti has worked at A.F. Vandervorst, Gianfranco Ferré, Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, and even spent 16-years at Gucci.

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."