Japan's Fast Retailing names Francesco Risso creative director of GU

As part of its corporate direction to strengthen the global brand presence of the GU group, Fast Retailing is pleased to announce the appointment of Francesco Risso as creative director of GU. In this role, Risso will shape the creative direction of the brand as it enters its next phase of growth. Her debut collection for GU is planned for fall/winter 2026.

In addition to his appointment at GU, Risso, who led the UNIQLO and Marni collection in 2022, will develop a new collaborative line with UNIQLO, scheduled to launch in 2026.

More details on both initiatives will be announced later.

Fast Retailing has appointed Francesco Risso as creative director of GU to strengthen the brand's global presence. Risso will lead GU's creative direction, with his debut collection scheduled for autumn/winter 2026. He will also develop a new collaborative line with Uniqlo launching in 2026, following his previous project with Uniqlo and Marni.

Italian designer Francesco Risso studied fashion in Florence, New York and London. He spent a decade at Prada, developing a rigorous approach to storytelling and craftsmanship while gaining extensive design experience. From 2016 to 2025 he served as creative director of Marni, shaping a boldly original vision for the house inspired by music, art and cultural exploration. A passionate educator, Risso has held visiting positions at the world's top art and design schools.

Note: The headline, ideas and image of this press release may have been refined by Fibre2Fashion staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged.

Fiber2Fashion News Desk (RM)