Fashion News: Proenza Schouler’s Designers Exit, David Koma for Blumarine & More!
An interesting week indeed…
PROENZA SCHOULER’S DESIGNER STEP DOWN FROM CREATIVE ROLES
For years, I sensed a shift at Proenza Schouler, a feeling that the creative spark was dimming. The marketing strategies felt disjointed, and the collections, while still artistic, lacked the vibrancy that once defined the brand. Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez have been pivotal in shaping Proenza Schouler’s identity over the past 22 years, but their recent work seemed to hint at a creative exhaustion. The announcement on January 15th that they would step down from their roles was not entirely surprising. It felt like the right moment for a change, even bittersweet.
The departure of such influential designers raises questions about the future direction of the label. Proenza Schouler has always catered to a demographic that values effortless coolness, appealing to women who want to stand out without trying too hard. The brand’s aesthetic has been synonymous with modernity and sophistication, and it will be interesting to see how a new designer interprets this legacy. The challenge will be to maintain the essence of what Proenza Schouler represents while infusing fresh ideas.
As we look ahead, the potential for reinvention is exciting. A new creative vision could breathe life into the brand, attracting a new generation of fashion enthusiasts while still honoring its roots. While I can’t imagine Proenza Schouler without McCollough and Hernandez, I remain hopeful. Change can be a catalyst for growth, and perhaps this transition will lead to a revitalization that captures the spirit of the times, appealing to both loyal fans and newcomers alike.
The Designers shared with WWD, “We founded Proenza Schouler in our early 20s and have had an extraordinary journey that we could have only dreamed of back then. We feel fortunate to have had the freedom to consistently push our creative boundaries and hone our craft while slowly building a solid and stable brand. Our twentieth anniversary was a moment of deep reflection for us. The time feels right to make the personal decision to step down from our day-to-day leadership role at the company and hand over the creative reins to someone new,” said Hernandez. “We have always valued risk-taking and a sense of adventure and feel ready to open ourselves up for whatever comes next. Bringing on Shira Suveyke Synder as the company’s CEO was a critical step in this ultimate direction. In her, we have complete faith and believe that Proenza Schouler will continue to evolve, develop, and grow into its full potential through her leadership.”
McCollough commented, “Proenza Schouler has always been a deeply autobiographical story that has evolved, developed, and grown alongside us, a reflection of our lives over the last two decades. While change is never easy, this decision – one we’ve carefully considered – feels like the right step at the right time, at this stage in our lives. We will miss working every day with the extraordinary teams we have built at Proenza Schouler, who are like family to us. We could never have experienced the highs we have had over the years without their hard work and dedication to our vision, nor could we have sustained the more difficult moments without their unwavering support and faith in what we do. Proenza Schouler has been a huge team effort, and it brings us great comfort to know that the brand’s future is in capable hands, guided with grace, passion, and unwavering commitment.”
In an interview with WWD, the pair added, “We have had the incredible honor of leading a team of extraordinary people, some of whom have been with us since day one. In them, we have complete confidence – they know us inside and out, and we are confident that we have been able to impart some of the feelings and ideas that fuel us,” they said. “We look forward to seeing how the new creative lead will lean into the team’s incredible talents and evolve the existing codes through their lens. We have complete confidence in the future of the brand.”
Image: Proenza Schouler/WWD
DAVID KOMA’S DEBUT AT BLUMARINE
David Koma has made a striking entrance as the new creative director for Blumarine, unveiling a collection that exudes glamour and sophistication. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant fashion scene of the city, Koma has skillfully reinterpreted Blumarine’s signature elements. The collection features elegant evening wear, luxurious fur-trimmed coats, bold leopard prints, and playful cropped t-shirts adorned with cheeky phrases like “Woof” and “Miaou.” This fresh perspective showcases Koma’s ability to blend contemporary aesthetics with the brand’s rich heritage, creating a unique dialogue between modernity and tradition.
In this debut collection, Koma diverges from the Y2K influences that characterized the previous creative direction under Nicolas Brognano. Instead, he infuses the line with a youthful spirit while maintaining the brand’s DNA. His approach is innovative and respectful of Blumarine’s legacy, as he updates classic silhouettes to reflect a more progressive vision. The designs are not just about nostalgia; they are about redefining what evening wear can be, introducing pieces that are not only stylish but also versatile enough for everyday wear.
Koma’s collection ultimately empowers wearers, providing them with garments that boost confidence and encourage self-expression. He sets a new standard for the brand by prioritizing wearability alongside high fashion. With an eye for detail and an understanding of contemporary trends, David Koma’s debut at Blumarine promises to reshape the brand’s identity while captivating a new generation of fashion enthusiasts. This collection marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Blumarine, which will resonate with those who appreciate both elegance and edge.
Image: Blumarine
Image: Blumarine
Image: Blumarine
Image: Blumarine
Image: Blumarine
Image: Blumarine
Image: Blumarine
