We can't say we're surprised, but we're certainly happy to learn that Matthieu Blazy will take on the creative director role at Bottega Veneta, following Daniel Lee's surprise departure last week.

Announced on Instagram by Kering as well as by Blazy himself, he'll present his first collection in February 2022.

“Matthieu Blazy is an extraordinarily talented individual, whom I am proud and excited to entrust with the creative helm of our luxury House. Bottega Veneta has always been equated with signature craftsmanship and distinctive creativity. Matthieu’s appointment will further enhance the modern relevance of our brand and accelerate our growth, while preserving the values that are at the core of Bottega Veneta,” said Bottega Veneta CEO Leo Rongone.

François-Henri Pinault, CEO of Kering, wrote: "I am confident that Matthieu Blazy’s wealth of experience and broad cultural background will allow him to bring his creative impetus to the task of carrying on the legacy of Bottega Veneta."

Matthieu Blazy was previously the label's design director, and a favorite when it came to speculations surrounding who would succeed Daniel Lee. Before his appointment at Bottega in 2020, he's worked at labels including Raf Simons, Maison Martin Margiela, Céline, and Raf Simons' Calvin Klein.