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In a significant transition for Fendi, Silvia Venturini Fendi has announced her resignation as creative director of the esteemed Roman fashion house, a role that has spanned generations in her family. She will now assume the position of honorary president, marking a new chapter in her illustrious career.
Having joined Fendi in 1994, Venturini Fendi was instrumental in designing men’s and accessory lines before taking the helm of women’s collections after the exit of Kim Jones last October. Under her leadership, the brand marked its centennial with innovative designs across two collections. Prior to Jones, she served as the right-hand woman to Karl Lagerfeld, the iconic creative director who led Fendi’s womenswear and couture from 1992 until his passing in 2019. After overseeing the creative direction for two seasons, she is set to pass the torch to a new visionary.
In a heartfelt statement, Venturini Fendi expressed her gratitude, stating, “These have been truly exciting years, a journey I have walked also in the name of my grandmother Adele, my mother Anna, and her sisters. My heart turns to Karl, an extraordinary master who granted me the honour of working by his side. He taught me the art of sharing, a quality that defines my family’s history of women, whilst guiding me to nurture and protect my creative vision.”
As she embarks on her new role, her focus will shift toward celebrating Fendi’s heritage, aiming to champion the brand internationally while promoting its rich craftsmanship and the Fendi Casa lifestyle.
In July, Fendi appointed Ramon Ros as CEO, possibly to navigate the brand through this creative shift. Although LVMH does not disclose individual brand sales, estimates from HSBC predict Fendi’s revenues reached €2.33 billion in 2024.
CEO Ramon Ros remarked, “Since 1992, Silvia has immensely contributed to shaping Fendi’s creative vision, and her influence has been critical for the brand’s international success. Her perspective has guided Fendi through its artisanal roots towards a dynamic future, particularly as we celebrate the house’s 100-year anniversary. I eagerly look forward to the forthcoming projects that Silvia will undertake in her new role, reinforcing not only Fendi’s legacy but also the broader world of design and craftsmanship.”
The fashion world is abuzz with speculation regarding Venturini Fendi’s successor, especially following Jones’s departure. Fendi has indicated that a new creative organization will be announced “in due course,” emphasizing the significance and stakes involved in this leadership transition.
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