Chiuri to present her first Fendi collection for Fall 2026 in Milan
Maria Grazia Chiuri is returning to her roots. After departing Dior in May, the Italian designer has been appointed chief creative officer of Fendi — confirming widespread speculation that she would join the Rome-based maison, which, like Dior, belongs to LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. The move marks a homecoming: Chiuri began her career at Fendi in 1989, contributing to the house’s accessories boom and working alongside the Fendi sisters.
“Maria Grazia Chiuri is one of the greatest creative talents in fashion today, and I am delighted that she has chosen to return to Fendi,” said Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of LVMH. “Surrounded by the Fendi teams and in a city that is dear to her, I am convinced that Maria Grazia will contribute to the artistic renewal and future success of the maison, while perpetuating its unique heritage.”
Chiuri’s first womenswear collection will debut during Milan Fashion Week in February 2026 for Fall 2026, followed by menswear in June and couture in July. Fendi CEO Ramon Ros said the unified creative direction marks “a new era of consistency and long-term solidity for the brand’s narrative.”
“I return to Fendi with honor and joy,” Chiuri said.
Fendi has always been a forge of talent, led by five extraordinary women who nurtured generations of creativity and skill. I am grateful to Mr. Arnault for entrusting me with the task of helping to write a new chapter in this women-founded company.”
Silvia Venturini Fendi, recently named honorary president, remains a central figure and will continue to collaborate closely with Chiuri. Her daughter, Delfina Delettrez Fendi, stays on to lead jewelry design. The house’s artistic structure follows the departure of Kim Jones last year, marking a significant transition for Fendi during its centenary celebrations.
Ros described Chiuri as “a designer with empathy, intelligence, and a rare understanding of the modern customer.” He emphasized her alignment with Fendi’s artisanal values and her ability to merge craftsmanship with contemporary storytelling. “This role is not only about designing beautiful clothes,” he said. “It’s about curating a culture and holding a mirror to the world we live in.”
Chiuri’s tenure at Dior cemented her as a powerful voice in luxury fashion. As the first woman to lead the French house’s women’s collections, she grew Dior’s sales from €2.2 billion in 2017 to €8.7 billion in 2024, according to HSBC estimates. Her designs — from the Bar jacket to pleated tulle skirts and the Book Tote bag — became global hits, while her feminist-themed shows helped define Dior’s cultural impact.
Now, her return to Fendi brings her career full circle. With Venturini Fendi’s support and Ros’s leadership, Chiuri will help shape the next century of the Roman brand’s evolution — blending heritage, craftsmanship, and an artist’s perspective on modern femininity.