Gucci Announces New Designers

Gucci Group NV announced Thursday an in-house team of four designers will replace creative director Tom Ford at its Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent labels.

Alessandra Facchinetti, John Ray and Frida Giannini - three of Ford's assistants - will design Gucci's womenswear, menswear and accessories, the luxury goods maker said in a statement.

Stefano Pilati will succeed Ford at YSL. Speculation over Ford's replacements has engulfed the fashion world since the American designer announced his departure in November.

Ford, who presented his final collection for YSL on Sunday, resigned at the same time as Gucci Chief Executive Domenico De Sole, whose replacement hasn't yet been named. Ford gave his final show for Gucci on Feb. 25 in Milan.