Photo: Startraks 

In breaking fashion news, footwear designer Stuart Weitzman is officially set to step down from his duties as creative director of his eponymous brand. According to Fashionista.com, the legendary 74-year-old design talent will leave his role, which will be taken over by Giovanni Morelli.

Morelli comes to Stuart Weitzman from Spanish fashion house Loewe, where he was formerly the brand’s leather goods design director. His new appointment as creative director begins on May 5, 2017. Meanwhile, company founder Weitzman will take on his new gig as his label’s chairman at that point.

In a statement, Weitzman described the company’s decision to select Morelli.

“Giovanni is respected for his attention to detail, respect of quality and craftsmanship and for his modern sensibility that is always pushing new design boundaries.”

As a young man, Weitzman started designed shoes for his father Seymour Weitzman in the 1960s. He later managed the family business, in collaboration with his brother Warren. Although Stuart Weitzman was purchased by Coach in 2015, the footwear legend remained his label’s head designer.

Stuart Weitzman is best known for his intricate designs, which are sported by celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Ciara and Kate Bosworth. From the classic Nudist strappy heel to his iconic black suede Highland boots, it’s clear that his creations have made a splash in Hollywood. With Weitzman now slated to step into a chairman role, changes are certainly coming to the cult favourite brand.