Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s departure as creative director of Ann Demeulemeester has sparked further discussion about the ongoing trend of high-profile creative directors leaving prominent European fashion houses. The reasons behind his departure have not been disclosed, leaving fans and industry insiders curious about the circumstances surrounding his exit. Moreover, no successor has been named yet, leaving an air of uncertainty hanging over the prestigious brand.
Sernin, born in Brussels and raised in Paris, gained acclaim in the fashion world for his sensual and highly distinctive designs. He launched his own label in 2017, which quickly gained recognition for its individualistic aesthetic. Ann Demeulemeester praised Sernin’s unique vision and personal connection with the contemporary audience when he was hired. However, his tenure as creative director was short-lived, as he presented only one collection during Paris Fashion Week in March before leaving the brand.
Ann Demeulemeester herself is no longer actively involved in the operations of the fashion house she founded. After selling the brand to entrepreneur Anne Chapelle in 2013, it became part of the Dreamers Factory fashion hub. Dreamers Factory was developed by Italian entrepreneur Claudio Antonioli, who also owns multi-brand boutiques in prominent fashion destinations such as Milan, Ibiza, Turin, and Lugano. Within the hub, Ann Demeulemeester merged with the luxury streetwear brand 44 Label Group, and the brand’s headquarters now reside in Milan’s Via Savona, a focal point of the fashion scene.
Despite the departure of Ludovic de Saint Sernin, Ann Demeulemeester is determined to continue its relaunch efforts. The brand aims to blend the original style of its Antwerp-born designer with a more contemporary context, positioning itself at a medium-range price point. With a team of over 50 employees, including 12 designers, the fashion house is committed to revitalizing its image and attracting a new generation of consumers.
The changing of creative leadership in the fashion industry is not limited to Ann Demeulemeester. Other renowned fashion houses have also experienced departures and separations in their top positions. Rhuigi Villasenor has left Bally, Bruno Sialelli has separated from Lanvin, Charles de Vilmorin has departed from Rochas, and Serhat Işık and Benjamin A. Huseby have resigned from Trussardi. These transitions suggest a larger trend of instability and reshuffling within the industry, with creative directors being sought after and replaced in quick succession.
As Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s departure leaves a void at Ann Demeulemeester, the fashion world eagerly awaits news of who will take on the role of creative director and how the brand will evolve under new leadership. Only time will tell what exciting changes and developments are in store for this esteemed fashion house.
Useful links:
1. Ann Demeulemeester Official Website
2. Ann Demeulemeester Fall 2021 Menswear Collection
