Bally’s Former Creative Head Takes The Helm At Jil Sander
The OTB Group and its subsidiary, Jil Sander, have announced Simone Bellotti’s appointment as the brand’s new creative director. Effective immediately, Bellotti, previously the creative director of Bally, succeeds his predecessors, Luke and Lucie Meier.
Rumors of Bellotti being a potential successor to the Meiers were reported in January. Soon after, the Meiers’ departure from Jil Sander was confirmed following their fall 2025 fashion show in Milan.
Simone Bellotti became the creative director at Bally in May 2023, following Rhuigi Villaseñor’s exit. His expertise and unique talent were lauded as he took on this new role.
Renzo Rosso, chairman of OTB Group, said, “Simone embarks on this journey with extensive experience and a distinct talent. Over the time spent together we shared the strategic vision and mission for Jil Sander, the values of innovation and sophistication that make it an iconic and unique brand.”
Bellotti’s appointment comes amid major changes at Jil Sander. Last month, Serge Brunschwig, former chairman and CEO of Fendi, was named the chief strategy officer of OTB.
Prior to joining Bally in October 2022, Bellotti had a long-standing tenure of 16 years at Gucci, along with senior design roles at Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, and Gianfranco Ferré. His rich experience also includes ready-to-wear tailoring and accessories—Bally’s core business.
Bellotti said, “I am incredibly honored to join Jil Sander, a storied house that created a new aesthetic with its unique approach and strong identity and that has always had such a significant influence on the design community. I am grateful to Renzo for the trust, and I am keen to contribute to the house’s full potential.”
Known for his understated chicness and rigorous designs, Bellotti’s first collection for Bally was showcased during Milan Fashion Week in September 2023. Since then, he has received praise for his collections, which beautifully balance Bally’s 174-year history with his modern vision.
Bellotti’s design inspiration often comes from art. A notable example is his 2025 Spring collection, which was inspired by German poet Hugo Ball, founder of the Dada artistic movement and Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich.
In August 2023, Bally International A.G. was acquired by Regent, owner of Club Monaco and Escada from JAB. General manager Ennio Fontana now leads the company after CEO Nicolas Girotto left Bally in October.