While Maria Grazia Chiuri may be best known as the co-creative director of Valentino, it looks like a breakthrough new appointment might be in store for the Italian fashion designer. Chiuri, who currently heads the Italian fashion house in partnership with Pierpaolo Piccioli, is said to be heading to Dior.

According to Women’s Wear Daily, a Paris source has reported that Christian Dior has created a contract for Chiuri. She will be the seventh couturier at the French luxury label, and is reported to start her duties after Valentino’s upcoming couture show in July.

WWD reports that Chiuri was chosen as one out of three finalists for the position on May 31. She will succeed Raf Simons, the previous Dior creative director who left his role in October.

Known for crafting ethereal, feminine pieces, Chiuri’s design aesthetic leans toward the ladylike and intricate. With the breakthrough news of her latest appointment, it will be intriguing to see the design talent’s creations on the Dior runway. In the meantime, fashionistas will have to stay tuned for further details.

Photos: Startraks