Daniel Lee is reportedly in talks to replace Riccardo Tisci at Burberry, a move that would bring with it a brand new look for the British label.
According to WWD, an "industry source" (whatever that means) says that Lee and Burberry are in "advanced discussions," suggesting that a deal could be signed soon. Burberry declined to comment on speculation.
Tisci, whose contract ends in early 2023, joined Burberry in early 2018. During his tenure, he helped bring hype to the house via streetwear-informed silhouettes, NFT collections, star-studded campaigns, and influencer-approved handbags (e.g. the Lola, promoted by Lourdes Leon, Dixie D'Amelio, and Devon Lee Carlson).
While Tisci was reshaping Burberry, Lee was busy breathing new life into Bottega Veneta, where he served as creative director from 2018 to 2021.
The designer's accessories and footwear were a boon for the house, which had been struggling to attract younger customers. With hits including the Pouch clutch, the Cassette bag, and the Lido sandal — the quilted, square-toed heel that was Lyst's most sought-after women's product in 2019 — Lee transformed Bottega into one of fashion's most relevant brands.
So it was a shock when Lee departed the house in late 2021, a turn of events that Bottega characterized as a "joint decision." In the wake of Lee's abrupt exit, rumors swirled that the creative director clashed with staff, pushing employees to leave the company.
Interestingly, a new Vogue profile on Lee's successor, Matthieu Blazy, seems to emphasize the new creative director's easy-going personality.
"He’s not an egomaniac or hyper-narcissist or mega-diva or anything like that," artist Anne Collier said of Blazy. Raf Simons, who hired Blazy out of school, described the designer as "one of the loveliest people I’ve ever met in my life." (High praise in an industry notorious for pretension and big personalities.)
But back to Burberry — is Lee poised to write the brand's next chapter? Or are the rumors unsubstantiated? We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, Blazy seems to be blazing a new trail at Bottega, where he hit the ground running with an exquisite debut collection.
