Italian designer Alessandro Vigilante has been appointed as the new Creative director of Rochas ready-to-wear.
Known for his work with prestigious labels such as The Attico, Dolce & Gabbana, Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini and Gucci under Alessandro Michele, Vigilante will bring a fresh perspective to Rochas. But his journey with the brand began subtly in May last year, when he contributed to the Spring/Summer 2024 collection, which was initially set in motion by the Rochas studio team.
Philippe Bénacin, Chairman and CEO of Interparfums, Rochas’ parent company, praised Vigilante’s deep understanding of the brand’s essence. He noted that Vigilante’s designs for Rochas resonate deeply with the brand’s Parisian identity of elegance, daring, femininity and sophistication.
Vigilante’s first collection under his own name will be shown during the upcoming Paris Fashion Week in February for the Fall/Winter 2024 season. Benacin said the collection would be presented in a presentation form, with a return to the runway planned for September 2024.
The new Creative director’s approach is expected to blend Rochas’ long-standing codes with his innovative ideas, striking a balance between traditional elegance and contemporary flair. His commitment to creating clothes that embody both luxury and practicality has already earned him accolades from Bénacin.
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The appointment follows the departure of Charles de Vilmorin, whose two-year tenure saw a mix of highs and lows. Vigilante steps into those shoes with a vision to enrich Rochas’ legacy while continuing to develop his eponymous collection, which will debut at Milan Fashion Week in 2021.
A native of Puglia and a distinguished graduate of Milan’s IED Moda Lab, Vigilante is described by Rochas as a passionate lover of art, film, photography and dance. His diverse inspirations are expected to infuse his work at Rochas with a rich, eclectic aesthetic.
In a heartfelt statement, Vigilante expressed his honor and excitement at joining Rochas. ”I am honored and grateful to be joining the maison Rochas and for the opportunity to build on the rich and profound heritage of the house. Rochas represents a dedication to French sophistication and a celebration of womanhood that I find incredibly inspiring. I am looking forward to conveying my vision.”
Founded in 1925 by Marcel Rochas, Rochas has had several notable designers at the helm, including Marco Zanini and Olivier Theyskens. The brand, which was temporarily shuttered in 2006, has been revived under the creative direction of several talented designers.
Since Interparfums acquired Rochas from Procter & Gamble Co. in 2015, the brand has experienced a resurgence, blending its rich heritage with contemporary influences. The production of Rochas women’s ready-to-wear is managed by HIM Co SpA, while Maison Rochas oversees the brand’s marketing, communications and licensing activities.
Read more: Charles de Vilmorin departs Rochas following a two-year tenure
