Gucci announced Thursday that the Balenciaga artistic director Demna will take over the creative direction of the Italian luxury fashion house, starting in July. Gucci and its French parent Kering said in a statement that Demna “has redefined modern luxury, earning global recognition and cementing his authority on the industry.’’

Kering appointed Demna Gvasalia as artistic director of Gucci, turning to the Balenciaga designer to inject new life into its flagship brand at a difficult time for the industry.

The name of Maria Grazia Chiuri, the creative director of Dior, was highly anticipated, but the chosen one to lead Gucci has been Demna, the man who revolutionized Balenciaga. The fashion game continues.