Silvia Venturini Fendi Steps Down as Creative Director of Fendi
In a significant shift for the iconic Italian luxury brand, Silvia Venturini Fendi has announced her departure from the role of creative director at Fendi, a position she has held since 1994. The announcement was made by LVMH, the parent company of Fendi, on Monday. Venturini Fendi will transition to the role of honorary president, where she will continue to advocate for the brand on a global scale. The company has indicated that a new creative structure will be revealed in the near future.
A Legacy of Innovation and Style
Silvia Venturini Fendi is not just a designer; she is a descendant of the brand’s founders, which adds a layer of familial legacy to her tenure. Her career at Fendi has been marked by a close collaboration with the late Karl Lagerfeld, who served as the creative director for the women’s line for an impressive 54 years. Venturini Fendi’s journey in the fashion world has been deeply intertwined with Lagerfeld’s influence, and she has often credited him for shaping her creative vision.
Following Lagerfeld’s passing in 2019, Venturini Fendi took on the additional responsibility of overseeing the women’s collections for two seasons. She returned to this role again in 2025, coinciding with the brand’s centennial celebrations, after the departure of Kim Jones. This adaptability showcases her commitment to the brand and her ability to navigate the complexities of the fashion industry.
A Unique Vision of Roman Aesthetics
Throughout her career, Venturini Fendi has championed a distinctive vision of Roman style that blends historical influences with modern sensibilities. Her designs often feature clean, architectural lines that reflect the rich tapestry of Rome’s baroque, neoclassical, and modernist architecture. This aesthetic is complemented by a playful approach to materials, where luxurious furs, leathers, and silks are reimagined into innovative forms, from evening coats to casual track jackets.
Her work has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional luxury fashion, incorporating elements of androgyny and whimsy. This unique blend has not only defined her personal style but has also contributed to Fendi’s reputation as a forward-thinking luxury brand.
The Birth of Iconic Accessories
One of Venturini Fendi’s most notable contributions to the fashion world is the creation of the Baguette bag in 1997. This design is often credited with igniting the “it-bag” phenomenon, a trend that transformed the luxury accessory market. The Baguette’s runaway success caught the attention of major investors, leading to LVMH increasing its stake in Fendi to a majority holding by 2001.
In 2009, she introduced the Peekaboo bag, which has since become a cornerstone of Fendi’s product line. These innovations not only solidified her status as a leading designer but also played a crucial role in the brand’s commercial success.
A Farewell to a Fashion Icon
Venturini Fendi’s final show as creative director took place on September 24 during Milan Fashion Week. The collection was a striking blend of romanticism, futurism, and sporty elements, featuring sleek silhouettes adorned with whimsical embroideries. This show encapsulated her design philosophy, which emphasizes individuality and a rejection of conventional beauty standards.
In her own words, Venturini Fendi stated, “I never adhered to one single beauty standard, and narrowing it all to the cult of beauty is, quite frankly, pointless.” This perspective reflects her commitment to inclusivity and diversity in fashion, a message that resonates with many in today’s industry.
The Future of Fendi
As Venturini Fendi steps into her new role as honorary president, the future of Fendi remains a topic of great interest. The brand has a rich history and a strong foundation, but the challenge will be to maintain its innovative spirit while adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of luxury fashion.
The announcement of a new creative configuration is eagerly anticipated, as stakeholders and fashion enthusiasts alike wonder who will take the reins of this storied brand. The legacy of Venturini Fendi, marked by her unique vision and groundbreaking designs, will undoubtedly influence the direction of Fendi for years to come.
Conclusion
Silvia Venturini Fendi’s departure as creative director marks the end of an era for the luxury brand that bears her family name. Her contributions to the fashion world, particularly in redefining Roman aesthetics and creating iconic accessories, have left an indelible mark on the industry. As she transitions to her new role, the fashion community watches closely, eager to see how Fendi will evolve while honoring the legacy of its past.
