Alessandro Michele, the former Gucci designer, will become the new creative director of Valentino, taking over from Pierpaolo Piccioli.

Italian designer Alessandro Michele, best known for his work at Gucci, will take over as creative director of Valentino. Michele will take up the post on Tuesday, replacing Pierpaolo Piccioli. Piccioli's departure was announced abruptly last week after 25 years at Valentino. Alessandro Michele left Gucci after seven years, having been recognized for his transformations to the brand.