Heir Looms

After recovering from the shock of Gianfranco Ferré’s death in June, fashion insiders commenced chattering about the subject of a successor. Where would the IT Holding SpA–owned label ever find someone worthy of filling Ferré’s shoes? The answer, it turns out, was in the land of ABBA and smorgasbord. In September the company named Swedish designer Lars Nilsson creative director. Nilsson previously held the same post at Bill Blass and Nina Ricci, from which he resigned in 2006 amid rumors that he was pushed out.

Speaking to Women’s Wear Daily, W’s sister publication, the designer was cagey about his plans for Ferré, saying only: “I’m pleased to join the house of Ferré and take this amazing creative statement in fashion forward.” His vision will become evident in January, when he unveils his first collection during Milan’s men’s Fashion Week.**

Photo: Donato Sardella