Jean-Christophe Babin

Bvlgari CEO Jean-Christophe Babin on the brand’s evolution, attracting millennials, and the power of being digitally present.

- Mughni Che Din

It was a balmy Friday afternoon and the rush of Milan Fashion Week was in full force as I made my way to the highly anticipated launch of Bvlgari’s Autumn/Winter ’19 leather goods and accessories collection. Held at the majestic Bvlgari Hotel Milan, situated in the city’s most stylish district Via Montenapoleone, the atmosphere at the hotel lobby was electric as invited guests comprising international press, celebrities, and socialites eagerly waited to preview the brand’s latest creations.

Sensual, glamorous, and exquisite, the ‘Eclectic Glam’ collection seamlessly captured the spirit of this season with bright colours, sophisticated craftsmanship, and show-stopping designs. From the new ultra-soft, jewel-inspired Serpenti Cabochon to limited-edition miniature Serpenti Forever Atomic Glam bags, Bvlgari designs are instantly recognisable, attributed to the brand’s renowned ability to combine exceptional savoir-faire and a strong bond with its Roman heritage.

Leading up to the presentation, I was told I would be given the opportunity to interview one of the Bvlgari spokespersons at the event—either collection marketing director Marcelo Sanchez Rico or CEO Jean-Christophe Babin—but shortly after I had previewed the collection, I received a text from the Bvlgari PR: “Your interview with Mr Babin is confirmed. Let’s meet at The Lounge in 15 minutes.”

Dressed in a sharply tailored suit and tie, Babin warmly greeted me and offered me a seat on the sofa by the fireplace, overlooking the beautiful hotel garden for this exclusive interview. It’s not every day you get a one-on-one with the mastermind behind such a prestigious luxury brand in the world.