Fashion industry insiders are abuzz as 40-year-old designer Jonathan Anderson exits Loewe after an 11-year tenure. During his time at the Spanish handbag house, Anderson transformed it into a hot ticket in Paris fashion week. This exit comes on the heels of last week’s surprise appointment of Demna at Gucci, marking a radical shift in Gucci’s aesthetic.
The global economic climate and public discourse are reflecting this upheaval, as luxury slowdowns loom over boardrooms. Mavericks like Demna are taking center stage, leaving established designers behind. Anderson is widely rumored to be poised for promotion within LVMH, the owner of Loewe, potentially to Dior.
Demna’s appointment at Gucci signals a bold departure from Sabato de Sarno’s “quiet luxury” approach. Demna’s designs often challenge consumers and push boundaries, as seen in his Balenciaga shows featuring yellow duct tape, apocalyptic themes, and references to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The role will test whether Demna can appeal to a mass audience at Gucci, which is four times larger than Balenciaga.
Kering’s confidence in Demna after a two-year hiatus following controversy over his advertising campaign is a notable vote of faith. As the fashion industry navigates its unpredictable landscape, it remains to be seen how this new direction will unfold.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2025/mar/17/jonathan-anderson-to-leave-loewe-as-fashion-houses-creative-upheaval-continues