Simone Bellotti: From Behind the Scenes to the Spotlight at Bally
Simone Bellotti, the creative director of Bally, has spent most of his 23-year career working behind the scenes in the fashion industry. However, when he was thrust into the spotlight after the departure of Rhuigi Villaseñor, the founder of Rhude, Bellotti found himself facing a new challenge.
Born in Giussano, a town known for producing furniture in Italy, Bellotti’s childhood was marked by the sudden loss of his father when he was just 13 years old. Despite the challenges he faced, Bellotti pursued his passion for fashion design and patternmaking, drawing inspiration from independent designers like Martin Margiela and Veronique Branquinho.
After working for prestigious fashion houses in Milan and Florence, Bellotti returned to Bally in Milan for a new chapter in his career. His debut collection for Bally in spring 2024 paid homage to the brand’s heritage as a leather goods house, featuring an array of leather garments with a distinct alpine flair.
Bellotti’s unique blend of precision, utilitarianism, and sportiness in his designs reflects his belief that Switzerland, where Bally is based, can be more than just known for chocolate and banks. As he continues to lead Bally into the future, Bellotti’s journey from a small town in Italy to the forefront of the fashion world serves as an inspiration to aspiring designers everywhere.
