Luxury womenswear label Ports 1961 has appointed Francesco Bertolini as its new design director. 

Under Bertolini’s direction, Ports 1961 aims to blend its heritage with a fresh, contemporary edge, promising a brand evolution. He will make his debut for the brand with a Spring/Summer 2025 collection, in September during Milan Fashion Week. He follows Karl Templer who held the role from 2019 until September 2022.

“I am deeply honoured to lead the design at Ports 1961. I am pleased to contribute my vision to the progression of the brand, which has always embraced and supported my talent. Ports 1961’s dedication to innovation and modernity aligns with my fundamental values,” said Bertolini.

Born in Tuscany, Bertolini worked for esteemed fashion houses such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Vionnet, and Prada Group. He joined the Milan-based brand in 2019. 

“We are delighted to welcome Francesco Bertolini as our new design director. Since joining the company in 2019, Francesco has demonstrated his unique ability to reinterpret traditionally defined fabrics and silhouettes, perfectly aligning with the values of the brand. We are proud to see the growth of our in-house talent and we are confident that his vision will enhance and honour the history of our maison,” said the board of Ports 1961. 

Ports 1961 was founded in 1961 by Canadian entrepreneur Luke Tanabe. Today, it is distributed in over 100 stores globally with flagship locations at 251 bis rue Saint-Honoré in Paris and 1576 West Nanjing Road in Shanghai.