Among the press and buyers, there is a lot of goodwill around Bellotti, after his short but impactful turn as creative director of Bally, for four seasons from 2023-2025. Prior to Bally, he worked at Gucci for 16 years, first under Frida Giannini and then under Alessandro Michele.
Here’s what other industry insiders had to say:
“I thought it was incredible, it felt very true to the brand but distinctly Simone in the gestures. I was most drawn to the details: the crisp lines, the layering, the odd seam to create volume. It’s been particularly hard to find great non-sneaker shoes, and we got shown so many options that felt desirable and practical. I think the footwear will resonate once it delivers to stores, immediately at the top of my wishlist for the season.”
Nick Tran, head of buying and merchandising at Dover Street Market
“I loved all the craftsmanship. I think it’s very beautiful work. You can tell he really worked on the collection. And we need artisanship like that. It was also very Jil!”
Carla Sozzani, founder, 10 Corso Como and Fondazione Sozzani
It’s nice to feel this energy of newness in Milan. We want to bring creativity, push creativity further. So I think this is a nice reboot, very much in the roots of Jil Sander. I think that for sure the Jil Sander community will love this. There was so much of the ’90s, there was so much of the feeling of the original Jil that I think would be very appreciated by the brand’s community and followers.
[Consumers] are looking for authenticity and true stories. I believe it’s a time of true stories, because there is so much confusion around. We need true stories in fashion.
Carlo Capasa, president of Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana
“This felt exactly like what Jil Sander should be — minimal without being dull, clean without feeling sterile, and refreshingly removed from the now-tired ‘quiet luxury’ trend. The collection felt confident, energetic and also fun. The cinched leather coats and cropped wool jumpers, especially, were a highlight for me.”
Ted Stansfield, editor-in-chief of Dazed
“It was absolutely beautiful. I love the designs. They’re very sexy and practical, but very fashion. I wish that I could wear this brand every day.”
Chloe Cherry, actor
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