London-based designer David Koma, whose namesake brand has been a mainstay of London Fashion Week since 2009, has been tapped as creative director of Italian designer brand Bluemarine.

Koma will become the brand’s third creative director in two years, after former Tod’s designer Walter Chiapponi left the brand after just one season in the role.

Prior to Chiapponi’s arrival, previous creative director Nicola Brognano had sought to rejuvenate Bluemarine with a sexy, street aesthetic from 2019 to 2023.

Founded in 1977, Bluemarine is owned by Eccellenze Italiane, the investment vehicle of Liu Jo co-founder Marco Marchi.

Koma’s first collection for the brand will be Pre-Fall 2025.

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Blumarine Appoints Walter Chiapponi Creative Director

The former Tod’s designer replaced Nicola Brognano in November 2023.