In a move that many saw coming a mile away, Berluti has chosen Kris Van Assche to be its new artistic director.

Berluti surprised the fashion world last week when it announced they were parting ways with Haider Ackermann, one of the most popular designers of today, after only three seasons. It was immediately suspected that Assche would be chosen to take Ackermann’s place, mainly because of this quote from Assche’s departure announcement from Dior Homme, which he left last month: “Kris Van Assche will continue to express his talent and creativity within the LVMH Group. His next assignment will be announced at a later stage.”

Speaking to Business of Fashion, Van Assche remarked “I have always wanted to build bridges between the savoir-faire, the heritage of a house and my clear-cut contemporary vision.” With Ackermann out, and Van Assche in, there’s no doubt that the new appointment comes with an Arnault family blessing. “Antoine Arnault spoke to me of his ambitions for Berluti and it is with great pleasure that I accept this new challenge, which fits perfectly with my own will and vision. I would also like to thank Bernard Arnault for his renewed confidence.”

It’s anyone's guess as to whether or not this current round of musical chairs with fashion houses is over. Check back to Grailed for the latest news on where your favorite designers will be next.

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Tags: haider-ackermann, berluti, lvmh, dior-homme, kris-van-assche