MILAN – Mystery solved. On Saturday morning, Kering and Gucci announced that Sabato De Sarno is the Italian brand’s latest creative director, succeeding Alessandro Michele who exited last November.

His first show will bow in September during Milan Fashion Week.

De Sarno, who will report back to president and CEO Marco Bizzarri, was raised in Naples, began his profession at Prada in 2005, moving to Dolce & Gabbana, before joining Valentino in 2009, where he held positions of accelerating responsibility, finally being appointed fashion director overseeing each men’s and ladies’s collections.

“I’m delighted that Sabato will join Gucci because the House’s latest creative director, one of the crucial influential roles in the luxurious industry,” said Bizzarri. “Having worked with a lot of Italy’s most famous luxury fashion houses, he brings with him an enormous and relevant experience. I’m certain that through Sabato’s deep understanding and appreciation for Gucci’s unique legacy, he’ll lead our creative teams with a particular vision that may help write this exciting next chapter, reinforcing the House’s fashion authority while capitalizing on its wealthy heritage.”

François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering, said: “100 and two years after Guccio Gucci opened his first store in Florence, Gucci stays one of the crucial iconic, outstanding and influential luxury houses on this planet. With Sabato De Sarno on the creative helm, we’re confident that the House will proceed each to influence fashion and culture through highly desirable products and collections, and to bring a singular and contemporary perspective to modern luxury.”

“I’m deeply honored to tackle the role as Creative Director of Gucci. I’m proud to affix a House with such a unprecedented history and heritage, that over time has been in a position to welcome and cherish values I think in. I’m touched and excited to contribute my creative vision for the brand,” said De Sarno.