Moves at British Vogue, Banana Republic and Il Bisonte
Moves at British Vogue, Banana Republic and Il Bisonte
This week has already been a busy one in fashion, from shifts in management and creative control, to departures at British Vogue.
The news broke yesterday that Banana Republic president Andi Owen will be leaving the company late next month. Gap Inc. CEO Art Peck will take over Owen’s responsibilities while his replacement is sought. It is assumed that this move is the result of Banana Republic’s sales declining for seven continual quarters. “Andi has been an accomplished leader at Gap playing a number of key roles across Banana Republic, Old Navy and Gap,” Peck said in a statement. “During her time with Banana Republic, Andi led critical work improving the brand’s aesthetic and product quality and moved the brand to a full omni-channel assortment.” It was mentioned that the separation is mutual.
British Vogue announced today that their editor-in-chief Alexandra Shulman will leave the magazine, after precisely 25 years and a day in the position. Shulman will leave the publication sometime this summer.
It was also announced today that British Vogue’s managing editor Frances Bentley will step down. The path of Bentley’s career shadows Shulman’s, starting at Tatler before moving to GQ and then Vogue. “It has been my privilege and pleasure to work alongside so many brilliant, inspiring and very hard working people at Vogue and within Condé Nast,” Bentley said today, following the announcement. “I thank my lucky stars for the opportunity to be here for so many happy years.” Bentley will step down in June, and her successor announced at a later time.
Il Bisonte gained a new consultant creative director, one Emma Hill. Formerly the creative director at Mulberry, Hill also founded the namesake label Hill & Friends in 2015. Hill’s first capsule collection for the house, featuring eight pieces and at least one unisex bag, and is set to be released in February.
“Il Bisonte is looking to add some contemporary spirit to the collection, reinterpreting the original spirit of innovation and creativity,” stated chief executive Sofia Ciucchi, another new addition. “In this sense, we think that Emma is the best designer to interpret that spirit,’ the chief executive went on to say. “She has a very strong sense of materials, she really appreciates craftsmanship and knows how to deal with functionality. She is very contemporary with her attitude and her spirit.” Ciucchi was welcomed on board earlier this month, previously working as general manager at Salvatore Ferragamo. Considering the recent additions and change in direction, the 46 year old Italian leather goods company looks primed for major shifts.
Moves at British Vogue, Banana Republic and Il Bisonte
