Schiaparelli has announced the departure of artistic director Marco Zanini

On Friday, Schiaparelli announced the departure of its creative director, Italian Marco Zanini, who had given new life to the fashion house that was founded in 1930 by Coco Chanel’s arch-rival, Elsa Schiaparelli.

"Schiaparelli is announcing the end of its collaboration with Marco Zanini. The House is looking towards the future while transcending the aesthetic codes created by Elsa Schiaparelli. It follows a dynamic where a contemporary spirit meets its founder's daring personality," said the house in a statement, adding that a new creative director will be announced "soon".

Zanini, who is from Milan, was appointed creative director on September 30, 2013 in order to revive the legendary ready-to-wear and haute couture label. The House, which had not organized a fashion show since 1954, returned to the Parisian couture catwalk in January.

Zanini worked at Dolce & Gabbana and Versace for nine years before joining the American brand Halston. In 2009, he took over as artistic director of Rochas.

Stagnant since its founder’s death in 1973, the Italian businessman Diego Della Valle (Tod's Group) bought the brand in 2007.

“Schiap’”, as everyone called her, was known for her eccentric hats, her famous "shocking" pink, and her lobster and skeleton dresses. An associate of artists including Dali and Cocteau, influenced by the Surrealists, the rival of Coco Chanel, the famous Italian seamstress was a very important part of the fashion revival of the early 1930s.