Kim Jones leaves Fendi, Pierpaolo Piccioli rumored as successor

British designer Kim Jones has left Fendi after four years as creative director of womenswear and haute couture, amid persistent rumors of his departure. The move comes as the fashion industry faces financial uncertainty, with major groups like LVMH, which owns Fendi, responding to losses with leadership changes. Jones continues his role at Dior Men and previously led menswear at Louis Vuitton, Dunhill, and his own label. He is credited with introducing streetwear to luxury fashion, notably through Dior collaborations with emerging brand ERL. Speculation points to Pierpaolo Piccioli as Jones's successor. Piccioli, who left Valentino in March 2024 after a long tenure as creative director, previously worked on Fendi accessories alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri, now creative director of Dior. Both Valentino and Fendi were founded in Rome, suggesting a possible homecoming for Piccioli.