Swiss luxury label Bally has announced the appointment of Rhude designer Rhuigi Villaseñor as its new creative director. Now based in Los Angeles, Villaseñor is the first designer of Filipino heritage to lead a European fashion house. Born in Manila, Villaseñor established Rhude in 2015. The brand boasts successful collaborations with Canada Goose, Vans, Puma and McClaren.
In press about the appointment Villaseñor stated, “I am proud to be appointed as the new creative cirector of Bally. As a brand that is very dear to my heart, Bally has been worn in my family from generation to generation, from my grandfather to myself. The brand’s pioneering legacy across social innovation and 171 years of luxury heritage is a true inspiration, and I am drawn to the company’s paramount commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship.
“I have always admired the Swiss approach to luxury, its discreet representation of excellence, and symbiotic openness and care for the environment. [Bally CEO] Nicolas Girotto and I connected on our shared vision, and it is with immense honor that I accept this challenge. I look forward to invigorating and modernizing the brand while respecting its longstanding tradition, sharing its story further with a wider community.”
Founded in Switzerland as a shoe company 170 years ago, Bally is best known for its quality shoes, bags and accessories. In 2018, Jining, China-based Shandong Ruyi began the process of acquiring a majority stake in the label. The deal fell apart, returning ownership of the company to JAB Holding Company.
Villaseñor’s first collection for Bally will begin with the label’s spring 2022 presentation.
Reflecting the growing importance of streetwear’s place in fashion, LVMH‘s investment arm today announced it took a minority stake in Aimé Leon Dore.
