Rhude Founder Rhuigi Villaseñor Departs Bally Creative Director Role

News on this release was first published on January 20, 2022.

Update May 17, 2023: After just over a year as creative director of Bally, it was announced that Rhuigi Villaseñor will be departing the role in a move that’s said to be mutual. Originally reported by WWD, CEO Nicolas Girotto praised Villaseñor’s ‘creative contributions’ and stated that his ‘passion, energy, and creativity helped catapult Bally back into the spotlight, further rejuvenating the brand’s 170-year legacy through a modern, glamorous lens. I wish him all the best in the next chapter of his creative journey.’

Rhuigi Villaseñor has announced his new position as the creative director of Bally.

The founder and CEO of eponymous high-end streetwear label Rhude took to Instagram to break the news: ‘It’s my honor to announce that I will now be the new Creative Director of Bally Switzerland. It’s the mark of a new era and vision for one of the oldest luxury fashion houses. I’m excited to tell my story and bring you all through this journey along with my team, family and loved ones. THIS IS FOR THE KIDS AND DREAMERS.’

The 29-year-old Villaseñor continued, ‘I am proud to have been appointed as the new Creative Director of Bally. As a brand that is very close to my heart, Bally has been worn in my family from generation to generation, from my grandfather to me. The brand's pioneering legacy, through social innovation and 171 years of legacy in the world of luxury.’

Bally have not had a creative director since 2017; the last person in this role was Pablo Coppola, who is now at Balenciaga.

Villaseñor’s first collection for Bally will be shown in Spring 2023.

The lines continue being blurred between luxury and streetwear, with the recent news that LVMH have bought a minority stake in Aimé Leon Dore. And late last year, BAPE founder Nigo joined Kenzo as their new Artistic Director.