Francesco Bertolini appointed as new design director at Portes 1961 | kbnmart

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

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

“I am deeply honored to be leading the design at Ports 1961. I am delighted to contribute my vision to the advancement of the brand, which has always embraced and supported my talent. Ports 1961’s dedication to innovation and modernity is in line with my core values,” said Bertolini.

Born in Tuscany, Bertolini has worked for prestigious fashion houses such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Vionnet and the 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, in perfect alignment with the brand’s values. We are proud to see the growth of our in-house talent and are confident that his vision will enhance and honor the history of our House,” said the Board of Directors of Portes 1961.

Ports 1961 was founded in 1961 by Canadian entrepreneur Luke Tanabe. Today, its products are distributed in more than 100 stores worldwide, with flagship locations at 251 bis rue Saint-Honoré in Paris and 1576 West Nanjing Road in Shanghai.