After two decades of innovative womenswear, Proenza Schouler’s founders announce their departure from the label as they relocate to Paris in search of a fresh start in the fashion industry.
Proenza Schouler, the American fashion label founded in 2002 by designers Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, has garnered a reputation for its innovative and luxurious womenswear and accessories. The brand quickly gained popularity, winning the Women’s Wear Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America in 2007. Proenza Schouler is known for its unique combination of traditional tailoring and modern aesthetics, demonstrated through standout pieces such as their body-hugging bustier dress.
Speaking to Mirror Mirror Magazine, McCollough and Hernandez shared their fascinations with oppositions in fashion, stating, “We are always interested in opposites.” The duo’s work often draws from fashion history, reflecting their belief in understanding the past to navigate future trends.
Despite their initial success, Proenza Schouler struggled to evolve into a globally recognized name. Their attempts to broaden their brand, including a 2015 perfume collaboration with L’Oréal Luxe, did not yield the expected results. “We have no history as a brand, which allows us to experiment with new ideas,” the designers explained, but the fragrance ultimately flopped, largely due to the brand’s lack of widespread recognition.
Recently, Proenza Schouler announced their departure from the label that they built over the past two decades. This significant transition comes on the heels of their relocation to Paris, where they aim to reinvigorate their brand presence amidst high expectations. The pair expressed a desire to retain the success they established while navigating the challenges of a move into a new fashion capital.
In a broader context, the article also highlights the history of Loewe, another prominent fashion house, which has undergone its own evolution in recent years. Founded in 1846 in Madrid by German Enrique Loewe Roessberg, Loewe has established itself as a leader in leather goods. Notable transformations in the brand’s leadership, particularly with Vicente Vela becoming the head designer in 1958 and the introduction of influential contemporary designers like JW Anderson, exemplify the ongoing efforts to modernize and invigorate the label.
With both Proenza Schouler and Loewe navigating the complexities of the fashion landscape, industry watchers will be keen to see how these brands adapt and thrive amid changing tastes and expectations.
Source: Noah Wire Services
