Silvia Venturini Fendi Transitions to Honorary President, Marks New Chapter for Iconic Fashion House
MILAN (AP) — A pivotal chapter at the iconic Italian luxury fashion house Fendi is drawing to a close as Silvia Venturini Fendi, the scion who shaped much of its modern identity, steps down from her demanding creative director role to assume the honorary presidency. The move, announced in a company statement on Monday, marks a significant transition following her stewardship of both men’s and women’s collections during the brand’s centennial year.
A Period of Dual Leadership and Centennial Preparations
Venturini Fendi, 64, a third-generation member of the founding family, recently took the reins of Fendi’s entire creative output after the departure of Kim Jones in October 2024. Her interim period saw her overseeing both menswear and womenswear, alongside her long-standing responsibility for accessories, a position she held since 1994. This challenging dual role was particularly significant as Fendi prepares to celebrate its 100-year anniversary in 2025, a century after Adele and Edoardo Fendi first established the Roman fur and leather goods shop in 1925.
A Legacy of Innovation: From Iconic Bags to Enduring Partnerships
Her legacy at Fendi is immense, marked by iconic contributions that resonate throughout the fashion world. Venturini Fendi is famously credited with the creation of two of the brand’s most recognizable and commercially successful handbags: the “Baguette” in 1997 and the “Peekaboo” in 2008. Beyond these global sensations, she maintained a close creative partnership with the late Karl Lagerfeld, who served as the house’s women’s wear and fur creative director from 1965 until his death in 2019—a remarkable 54-year tenure. “What a wonderful journey it has been, not only creatively but also from a human perspective: first through my bond with Karl Lagerfeld, then with Kim Jones and last but not least with my fantastic team, which over the years has become part of my family,” Venturini Fendi shared in her statement, reflecting on her journey.
A Final Collection and A New Focus
Her final collection in her full creative capacity, a co-ed Spring-Summer 2026 line, debuted during a recent Milan Fashion Week, showcasing the brand’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship and imaginative design. In her new capacity as honorary president, Venturini Fendi will dedicate her focus to supporting and safeguarding the brand’s rich heritage and artisanal excellence.
Fendi’s Evolution Under Valued Leadership
Ramon Ros, chairman and CEO of Fendi, lauded her contributions: “Her vision has guided Fendi from its Roman artisanal roots into the future, culminating in the celebration of the house’s 100-year anniversary.” Fendi, which has expanded into a global luxury powerhouse, has been largely owned by the French luxury conglomerate LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton since its acquisition of a majority stake in 2001. This strategic shift underscores the brand’s evolution while honoring the invaluable legacy of its founding family.
