Moschino Appoints Loris Messina and Simone Rizzo as New Creative Directors
Moschino has officially named Loris Messina and Simone Rizzo as its new creative directors, effective immediately. The appointment comes just days after the Italian fashion house announced the departure of Adrian Appiolaza, who exited the brand by mutual agreement after two years at the helm.
The design duo, best known as the founders of contemporary fashion label Sunnei, will present their first collection for Moschino during Milan Fashion Week this September.
Announcing the appointment, Massimo Ferretti, executive chairman of Moschino parent company Aeffe SpA, emphasized the importance of balancing heritage with innovation. He praised Messina and Rizzo for their contemporary creative vision, strong cultural awareness, and ability to develop distinctive creative narratives, expressing confidence that they will help strengthen the brand’s identity and future growth.
Messina and Rizzo founded Sunnei in 2014 and quickly gained recognition for their unconventional approach to fashion, blending sharp design with playful commentary on the industry. Their collections often featured bold proportions, retro-sportswear influences, vibrant prints, and innovative runway presentations that challenged traditional fashion show formats.
In a joint statement, the designers expressed admiration for founder Franco Moschino’s legacy, highlighting his ability to challenge conventions while maintaining a clear and authentic creative voice. They described Moschino as a cultural force driven by a bold and recognizable point of view, noting that their new role presents an opportunity to honor that heritage while reinterpreting it for a contemporary audience.
The appointment arrives at a pivotal moment for Aeffe, which continues to navigate a broader corporate restructuring. The Italian fashion group, which also owns Alberta Ferretti and Pollini, recently received a proposal from investment firm Oxy Capital that could support a financial turnaround as the company explores its next chapter.
With Messina and Rizzo now leading the creative direction, all eyes will be on Moschino’s September runway debut as the brand begins a new era under the influential design partnership.
Photo Credit: Dario Catellani
