A revolution is underway at Fendi. After more than thirty years of creative leadership, Silvia Venturini Fendi is set to embark on a new chapter in her career within the historic Roman maison. From 1 October, she will assume the role of Honorary President, stepping down from the creative direction that has helped shape the brand’s contemporary identity. The transition comes at a symbolic moment, following the celebration of Fendi’s centenary during Milan Fashion Week. Venturini Fendi will continue to promote the brand globally, championing its cultural heritage, craftsmanship and creative universe. The house has announced that a new creative structure will be unveiled shortly, reigniting speculation over the possible appointment of Maria Grazia Chiuri.
A revolution at Fendi
A third-generation member of the founding family, Silvia Venturini Fendi has played a pivotal role in transforming the brand into a global luxury icon. From 1992 to 2019, she worked alongside Karl Lagerfeld, contributing to the artistic direction while overseeing accessories and the menswear line. In recent years, following Kim Jones’s departure, she also took on responsibility for womenswear. Her work has always sought to balance innovation with a deep respect for Fendi’s Roman artisanal roots, culminating in the Spring/Summer 2026 collection, inspired by childhood wardrobes and the search for a new aesthetic for the maison. “These have been thrilling years, which I have undertaken also in the name of my grandmother Adele, my mother Anna, and her sisters”, Venturini Fendi commented.
Maria Grazia Chiuri in pole position
In her new role, Silvia Venturini Fendi will act as ambassador of the maison’s DNA, supporting projects related to its history, design and craftsmanship. President and CEO Ramon Ros highlighted her essential contribution in guiding Fendi towards the future while keeping its roots alive. The appointment as Honorary President is not a farewell, but a transformation. Meanwhile, rumours around her successor are gaining traction. Sources close to the maison confirm that Maria Grazia Chiuri is the frontrunner to take over the entire creative direction, including haute couture, as previously anticipated at the end of January. For Chiuri, it would be a homecoming: she began her career at Fendi in 1989, in the accessories team alongside designer Pierpaolo Piccioli.
Photo: Fendi
