The news leaked on Tuesday evening, when WWD reported that sources close to Milan had confirmed a shock departure – Alessandro Michele, creative director of Gucci since 2015, was stepping down.
The official announcement took place last night (November 23), and the designer known for his glamorous geeky style, loved by Harry Styles, Florence Welch and Jared Leto, to name a few, went on his personal Instagram to confirm his departure and pay thanks to his creative team.
“During this long period, Gucci has been my home, my adoptive family,” he wrote. “To this extended family, to all the people who cared for and supported her, I send my deepest thanks, my biggest and most sincere hug.”
The stars he inspired expressed their gratitude, congratulations and commiseration in response.
Model Naomi Campbell led the tributes. “Thank you @alessandro_michele for your creations and sharing your dreams with us, and thank you for embracing young creatives from Africa and emerging markets. I wish you tons of blessings for your next chapter,” he said. she commented on Instagram.
Stylist Harry Lambert, who helped build the almost monogamous relationship between Styles and Gucci, also said, “You are an icon! Thank you for creating so many iconic â¤ï¸ â¤ï¸” looks for us – no doubt referencing the Watermelon High singer.
Billie Eilish’s recent major red carpet moment, two weeks ago at the LACMA Art + Film Gala, was thanks to Michele. She joined her boyfriend Jesse Rutherford wrapped in a Gucci monogrammed blanket, complete with matching pajamas. She also wore a designer-customized Gucci dress to attend the 2022 Met Gala. In her leaving Instagram post, she sent three simple black heart emojis to show her thanks.
Lindsay Lohan, who returned to the limelight with her new Netflix movie Fallout for Christmas, joined her in the emoji appreciation, commented on three red hearts and three praying hands to show her affection.
Many of the world’s most famous models also reached out to show their support. American model Amber Valetta said, “Thank you for the wonderful, memorable designs. More to come, I hope,” while British model Erin O’Connor called him “a beautiful poet. Thank you for your clairvoyance. A real gentleman. »
Karen Elson, the fiery-haired English model, said: “Your endless creativity is a rare and beautiful thing, we look forward to what lies ahead”, while American model Kristen McMenamy wrote: “Alessandro. We are Blessed by your presence in our lives. Wherever you go. You are an eternal genius. Go follow your next dream!!!! CONGRATULATIONS BABY!!!”
Fashion insiders who have long worked with Michele also left notes of gratitude. British Vogue editor Edward Enninful posted a heartwarming photo of the pair and wrote: “@alessandro_michele I will miss you. Looking forward to what you will do next. While stylist Katie Grand said: ‘So much love and admiration for you. You came, you conquered.
Business of Fashion founder Imran Amed also posted a touching paragraph that reads: “Bravissimo Alessandro! It was a pleasure to witness your talent at a Gucci bloom, right from the start, and to know that you have remained the same throughout your phenomenal success. You are a true class act, to the very end, stepping back with grace, dignity and humanity. I wish you the best for your next adventure!”
Other fashion designers also noted that they were sad to see him go. Silvia Fendi, creative director of accessories, menswear and children’s fashion at Fendi, sent her “love and admiration dear Alessandro”, and Susie Cave, of The Vampire’s Wife, expressed her sorrow, writing: “Alessandro you are the greatest and most beautiful soul. I have no other words than I LOVE YOU. I can’t write, I cry and I’m too sad.
Even Instagram themselves had a little something to say. The official account commented on Michele’s outgoing post, saying, “You magically paved the way for other creatives and will forever remain iconic to the masses.” He will without a doubt.