MARNI Appoints Francesco Risso as a New Creative Director

It is confirmed this morning that Marni has appointed Francesco Risso as it’s new creative director, this follows the step down of Consuelo Castiglioni after more than two decades. Riso has been appointed by Marni owners, fashion group OTB (owned by Diesel denim founder Renzo Rosso) with immediate effect.

Castiglioni founded the label with her husband Gianni in 1994, and earned a worldwide recognition and admiration from influential industry insiders.  She stated that she will now dedicate herself to her private life.

These were hectic and exciting years which absorbed all of my energies to create a project I am proud of. Thanks also to the constant support of my family who allowed me to stay true to my idea, I built a brand with a precise and recognisable identity. The time has now come to dedicate myself to my private life. I thank all the people who believed in this project and who, with loyal dedication, have helped me along this fantastic journey. – Consuelo Castiglioni

Risso studied at Florence Polimoda, at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology, and at Central Saint Martin’s in London and has worked for Anna Molinari, Alessandro Dell’Acqua, and Malo, before joining Prada in 2008. His first collection for Marni will be shown at Milan Fashion Week in February for the Fall Winter 2017 season.

Marte Mei Van Haaster for Marni Fall Winter 2015

I am happy to welcome Francesco, whose talent will contribute to writing a new chapter in the history of this house which is Italian at heart and global in spirit. I am confident that the creative team and the management of Marni, which have contributed to this success, will continue to make this brand reach exciting new goals. – Renzo Rosso

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