Antonioli acquired Ann Demeulemeester

Ann Demeulemeester has always been a designer very attached to her own indipendence. And although her retirement took place back in 2013, the heir she chose as creative director, Sébastien Meunier, has kept the brand's DNA until now. Many were concerned when, a few weeks ago, Meunier left his role and rumours had circulated that the New Guards Group wanted to acquire the brand. A pitch according to fans of the brand – who did not see how the fragile and poetic aesthetic of Ann Demeulemeester could survive alongside names such as Off-White™, Marcel Burlon, Ambush and Palm Angels. Things went differently: it was not the New Guards Group that acquired the brand, but Claudio Antonioli himself – a move that places the brand in a cross position, external to the group but aligned with it.

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

Ann Demeulemeester FW20

The guarantee of the brand's independence came from Ann Demeulemeester herself who stated:

«Mr. Antonioli has been a ‘compagnon de route’ ever since the early days of the brand. I am delighted and supportive of this new beginning. The house will be filled with new energy and I look to the future with confidence».

However, the announcement raised more questions than answered. At the moment the brand does not have a CEO or a creative director. Antonioli stressed to WWD, however, his intention to "preserve and protect" the brand. Work within the brand, however, is still going on and Antonioli said Ann Demeulemeester's next fashion show will be held in March during Paris Fashion Week.