Versace has appointed Pieter Mulier as its new creative director, effective July 1, 2026, the Italian fashion house announced on Thursday. The Belgian designer, known for revitalising Alaïa over the past five years, departs the Paris couture label to take over from Dario Vitale, who left Versace late last year after a short tenure.

Mulier was the first creative director at Alaïa since founder Azzedine Alaïa’s death in 2017, and under his leadership the brand regained cultural buzz and commercial momentum. With Mulier moving to Versace, Alaïa has yet to name a successor; Industry discussions have linked names like Olivier Rousteing, who recently left Balmain, to the vacant position, but nothing has been confirmed.

The appointment comes at a time of constant change within luxury fashion, with top designers moving between major houses as brands respond to evolving market tastes.