Cédric Charbit takes the helm at Yves Saint Laurent.
This change comes as Charbit steps away from his successful tenure at Balenciaga, where he served as President and CEO since 2016. His appointment is part of a broader strategy by Kering, the luxury group that owns both brands, to revitalize its portfolio amid challenging market conditions.
Charbit’s career in fashion began at Printemps in 2001, where he held various roles before moving on to significant positions at Pucci and YSL itself. In 2012, he joined Yves Saint Laurent as Product Strategy Director, eventually becoming Executive Vice President. His deep understanding of the brand’s heritage and market dynamics positioned him well for his subsequent role at Balenciaga, where he was instrumental in driving growth and innovation.
During his time at Balenciaga, Charbit oversaw a remarkable transformation that included the relaunch of Haute Couture and significant expansions in brand presence. Under his leadership, Balenciaga achieved record sales and redefined its image within the fashion landscape. This success was not without challenges; the brand faced a major scandal related to an ad campaign that sparked public outrage. Despite this setback, Charbit maintained his position and continued to steer the brand toward recovery and growth.
Now at Yves Saint Laurent, Charbit will collaborate closely with Anthony Vaccarello, the brand’s creative director known for his modern interpretations of YSL’s classic feminine aesthetic. Together, they aim to enhance YSL’s reputation for innovative design while staying true to its storied legacy. Vaccarello’s recent work has included reimagining collections like the Sahara line, which pays homage to the brand’s founder while appealing to contemporary tastes.
The leadership change comes as Francesca Bellettini, who has successfully guided YSL through challenging times, transitions to a more strategic role within Kering as Deputy CEO in charge of brand development. This shift allows her to focus on broader corporate strategies while ensuring continuity in YSL’s creative direction under Charbit’s stewardship.
Charbit’s appointment is seen as a strategic move by Kering to leverage his extensive experience and proven track record in luxury fashion. The company has faced declining sales across several brands this year, prompting a reevaluation of its leadership structures. By placing Charbit at the helm of YSL, Kering hopes to rejuvenate the brand and drive it towards new heights in an increasingly competitive market.
As Charbit takes on this new challenge, all eyes will be on how he navigates the complexities of leading one of fashion’s most prestigious houses while maintaining its core identity and pushing for innovation. His past experiences suggest a balanced approach that combines respect for heritage with a forward-thinking vision—qualities that will be essential as he embarks on this new chapter at Yves Saint Laurent.
