Pieter Mulier steps down from Alaïa amid speculation he will join Versace

In a move that was widely anticipated within the fashion industry, Pieter Mulier has stepped down from Alaïa. The Belgian designer, celebrated for his technical precision and modern reinterpretation of Azzedine Alaïa’s house codes, is rumoured to join Versace following the maison’s acquisition by Prada Group.

Mulier, who was appointed Creative Director at Alaïa in 2021, leaves after stabilising the house and reaffirming its signature focus on the female form. During his tenure, knitwear gained structure, leather flowed with renewed fluidity, and body-conscious silhouettes were reasserted with contemporary restraint.

"We sincerely thank Pieter for his vision and commitment, writing an important chapter in the ongoing evolution of the maison," said Myriam Serrano, Chief Executive Officer of Alaïa. "Over the past five years, Pieter and the exceptional team he led have shaped Alaïa's creative renewal, honouring its heritage and strengthening the maison's relevance, confidence, and global recognition."

At Alaïa, Mulier’s influence was felt commercially and culturally. He restored relevance to the house in Paris without diluting its atelier-led ethos.

Before arriving at Alaïa, Mulier trained at Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp and went on to work with Maison Margiela, Hermès and Prada.

Ever since Prada Group acquired Versace in December, industry rumours have been swirling that Pieter Mulier will join the Italian house. Mulier has maintained a close creative rapport with Raf Simons from his time at Prada, and insiders view the move to Versace as a natural next step following the acquisition.

The speculation comes amid the exit of Versace’s Creative Director Dario Vitale, formerly of Prada Group, just days after the takeover. Vitale’s March 2025 move to Versace had already been interpreted by some as a break in loyalty, adding another layer of intrigue to the reshuffle.

Alaïa has yet to name a successor.