Following the departure of Nicola Brognano last month, Blumarine has announced the appointment of Walter Chiapponi as the Italian brand’s next creative director. Since making his debut in the industry with Alessandro Dell’Acqua in the late 90s, the Milanese designer has collaborated with global fashion houses including Givenchy, Valentino, Gucci, Miu Miu and Bottega Veneta. Most recently, Chiapponi was creative director at Tod’s since 2019.

Since Brognano’s first collection in 2019 went viral on TikTok, Blumarine has had a resurgence among social media trends and loyal followers alike. As Chiapponi takes to the helm, the house’s design codes – synonymous with evolving femininity – will continue to grow under his expressive artistry and expert craftsmanship, presenting his debut collection for the house at Milan Fashion Week next season.

Speaking on the appointment, Chiapponi said “I am delighted to have been appointed Creative Director of an iconic Italian brand that has outlined over time an idea of femininity that is defined by lightness and creativity. The possibility of contributing to establishing a new phase for Blumarine is for me an opportunity to embrace new thrilling and important horizons, to expand my vision and to restore sense to artistic expression.”