PARIS Oct 3, 3005/ FW/ - Emilio Pucci announced today that young British designer Matthew Williamson, rumored front runner for the exclusive position left vacant by design master Christian Lacroix, has been appointed as Artistic Director for the Florentine maison acquired by LVMH in 2000.

Williamson’s first collection for Pucci will be presented in Milan next February 2006 during the Fall Winter season 2006/07.

With 29 boutiques worldwide, Italian giant Emilio Pucci has more than quadrupled their size and presence throughout the world over the last four years.

Williamson, with his colorful spirit and glamorous style will nonetheless continue to produce his own label Matthew Williamson and show in New York despite his relationship with Emilio Pucci.