Walter Chiapponi leaves the creative direction of Tod's

After four years as the creative director of the historic Marche-based brand, Walter Chiapponi is leaving Tod's. The news, which had already been leaked in an article by WWD, was made official through a joint statement by Tod's Spa and the designer. Chiapponi's final collection, the last result of his creative genius, will be presented on September 22nd during Milan Fashion Week. Speculation about his successor has already begun, with the name set to be unveiled in the coming months, as stated by Diego Della Valle, president and CEO of the Tod's group.

«Dedication, love, and energy. That's how I want to thank and bid farewell to Tod's, starting with a truly special design team that has supported my vision for four years, contributing to this beautiful journey with delicacy, attention, passion, and trust» commented Chiapponi. «It has been an extraordinary, human, and creative experience, marked by courage and resilience, progress, and support, especially during the most delicate moments of my life. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Diego and Andrea Della Valle, who believed in me. Thank you for the courage, humanity, and freedom to express the best version of myself through Tod's during these intense years.»

Walter Chiapponi began his career in the world of art in Paris and later studied fashion at the Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan. In 2005, he was appointed design director at Givenchy's style office following the arrival of Riccardo Tisci. He then worked for Gucci, Valentino, and Miu Miu before joining Bottega Veneta, where he served as head of the style office under the direction of Tomas Maier and later Daniel Lee. In 2019, Chiapponi was appointed creative director of Tod's, bringing with him his extensive experience and creative flair. Diego Della Valle, the president and CEO of the Tod's group, expressed his gratitude to Chiapponi for their collaborative work and commitment. This separation marks the end of an important partnership that aimed to make the Tod's brand bolder and more contemporary by exploring new shapes, fabrics, and details. It now leaves open the question of the direction the brand will take in the future.