The game of fashion musical chairs goes on. After the departure of Hedi Slimane from Celine and the appointment on the very same day of Michael Rider to fill in his shoes, the news that Kim Jones will be leaving Fendi, it’s Alberti Feretti’s turn to make a major announcement. Lorenzo Serafini, who has been designing her second-line Philosophy, will now be in charge of Alberta Ferretti, which will merge with Philosophy.
The Italian designer, who has stints as women’s lead designer at Bluemarine, Dolce & Gabbana and Roberto Cavalli in his portfolio, has played a major role at the Aeffe Group (that also boasts Moschino and Pollini in its portfolio) for over a decade, serving as creative director of the Philosophy by Lorenzo Serafini brand from 2014, when Alberta Ferretti herself picked him for the design role. So it seems only natural, that after her official retirement in September this year, it was announced he would take the reins of her eponymous brand. After all, when the general economic climate is so unstable and even the biggest luxury groups report fall downs this year, such safe and stable choices can only do good for the company.
“I am thrilled to announce that Lorenzo will be my successor at the helm of the brand that bears my name. With the fashion world undergoing tremendous change, I strongly believe that Lorenzo has the creativity, strong aesthetic sense, professionalism and expertise required to meet this challenge,” Alberta Ferretti, who continues to serve as Vice President of the group, said in the official statement, released last week. “A decade ago, I entrusted Lorenzo with the Philosophy line which he successfully developed into a thriving brand now it is time for him to write a new chapter for the Alberta Ferretti brand, whose essence aligns beautifully with his vision. Lightness, femininity, and sensuality are words already within Lorenzo's vocabulary, and words he will be able to wonderfully define within the world of Alberta Ferretti.”
As for Lorenzo Serafini, he is happy to continue working with the group in a new role and shared his emotions in the official statement: "With enthusiasm and gratitude, I welcome this new professional opportunity offered to me by the Ferretti family. I am honoured that Alberta has chosen me as her successor. I am embracing a significant and prestigious legacy, which I will cherish as I write a new chapter for the Alberta Ferretti brand."
Serrafini’s debut collection for Alberta Ferretti will be presented during Milan Fashion Week in February. Stay in the know.
Text: Lidia Ageeva