Christian Lacroix appointed Artistic Director of the italian Fashion House Emilio Pucci

LVMH, Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world leader in luxury, today announced the appointment of Christian Lacroix as Artistic Director of the iconic Italian fashion house, Emilio Pucci. Emilio Pucci, in which LVMH acquired a 67% stake in May 2000, sees this as a key step in accelerating its growth and developing its product lines. The opening of a Paris Pucci boutique in the prime location of avenue Montaigne, planned for 27th April, is a key part of this strategy. Christian Lacroix, who will continue to act as Artistic Director for his own fashion house said he was, «utterly thrilled and motivated at the prospect of something which is very close to his heart and which has always excited him : nurturing the instrinsic modernity of Emilio Pucci’s creations». Yves Carcelle, President of LVMH Fashion Group added that, «the appointment of Christian Lacroix and the opening of a number of boutiques in 2001 are part of the development strategy for the image of the exceptional Pucci brand». Bernard Arnault, Chairman of LVMH, said, » the arrival of a great, world-renowned designer will be a catalyst to the dynamic development of this prestigious brand».