The Italian luxury house Versace has named Eloise Hautcoeur as its new global communications director, marking the first major executive move since the brand came under the Prada Group earlier this year.
The appointment signals a new chapter for the iconic fashion label as it balances fresh ownership, a new creative direction, and a fast-changing industry.
Hautcoeur, who brings more than 15 years of experience in fashion and communications, joined Versace in Milan at the end of August. She announced the news on her LinkedIn profile, taking over from Mathieu Baboulène, who left earlier this summer to join Marine Serre. In her new role, she will work closely with Caroline Deroche Pasquier, Versace’s vice president of global communications, who came on board in early 2024.
The move comes at a pivotal time for Versace. The brand is undergoing a period of transformation, not only with new ownership but also with the arrival of creative director Dario Vitale. During the Venice Film Festival, Vitale made headlines by dressing Julia Roberts and Amanda Seyfried in coordinated looks – striped shirts, jeans, and navy blazers, that quickly went viral on social media. The buzz marked a successful early preview of his vision for the brand.
Hautcoeur’s career journey has prepared her well for this challenge. She began in fashion press offices in 2008 before joining global communications agency KCD in 2015, where she led the London PR division.
From there, she moved in-house to Saint Laurent at Kering as UK communications director. Most recently, she was head of communications for Northern Europe at Bottega Veneta, another Kering-owned brand. Her work has spanned public relations, talent management, media, partnerships, and events, skills that will be crucial as Versace looks to strengthen its global image.
Her appointment also reflects Versace’s ambition to sharpen its communication strategy during a period of heightened visibility. Under the Prada Group, the label is expected to push harder on global positioning, balancing its bold heritage with Vitale’s modern vision. Hautcoeur will be key to ensuring the brand’s voice remains consistent and impactful across all markets.
Versace’s recent Venice appearances suggest that storytelling and cultural presence will be central to its new phase. Julia Roberts appeared at her film premiere in a custom Versace gown featuring intricate embroidery, while Seyfried echoed the same daytime look, creating a coordinated fashion moment that sparked widespread coverage. These types of moves highlight how communications and creative design will work hand-in-hand to build excitement around the brand.
Looking ahead, Vitale’s first official collection for Versace is expected to be unveiled during Milan Fashion Week later this month. Unlike a traditional runway show, the brand is planning a more intimate presentation with a digital component. For Hautcoeur, this moment will be an early opportunity to shape the narrative around Versace’s future.
With her international experience and proven track record, Eloise Hautcoeur steps into the role at a critical point in Versace’s story. Her leadership in communications is set to play a central part in how the world sees and experiences the brand in the years to come.
