Bulgari names Mary Katrantzou as its first creative director for accessories

Bulgari has appointed Greek designer Mary Katrantzou as creative director of its accessories line, a new milestone for the historic jewellery brand founded 140 years ago by Sotirio Bulgari, himself of Greek origin. 

“Bulgari’s rich cultural heritage and twin Greek and Roman roots have played a key role in my personal development as designer,” said Katrantzou. “I have always drawn inspiration from Bulgari’s aesthetic codes, from its syncretism, mastery in the use of colours, and intense story-telling. I am honoured to have been appointed the first creative director of Bulgari’s accessories. A new chapter in which I am hoping to elevate everyday life to an art form,” she added.

“Mary’s arrival as creative director of accessories makes us very proud,” said Jean-Christophe Babin, Bulgari’s CEO, in a press release. “She shares with Bulgari not only the Greek origins, but above all the search for excellence in the choice of materials, the way in which they are transformed with a special emphasis on craftsmanship, and a passionate love for colours,” he added.

Katrantzou will assume the new role of creative director of Bulgari’s leather goods and accessories collections, including handbags and one-off high jewellery clutch-bags. She was born in Greece and has studied at Central Saint Martins in London. She collaborated with Bulgari for the first time in 2019, for the Spring/Summer 2020 haute couture show held in the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion in Greece, a fund-raising event for the Elpida charity organisation.

In 2021, Katrantzou contributed to Bulgari’s ‘Serpenti Through the Eyes Of’ accessories line, for which she reinterpreted the best-selling Serpenti Forever handbag, in a new take inspired by the brand’s archives. In 2023, Bulgari launched a new capsule collection featuring the Serpenti Forever handbag, enhanced by embroidered motifs inspired by the brand’s high jewellery and watches collections. Katrantzou’s debut accessories collection for Bulgari will be available in-store from August.