Jack Carlson Named Creative Director and President of J. Press, Set to Debut at NYFW
Jack Carlson, the founder of prep-inspired brand Rowing Blazers, has been appointed as the new creative director and president of J. Press. This marks a significant new chapter for the iconic Ivy League brand, which was founded at Yale University in 1902. Carlson’s first collection for J. Press will debut at New York Fashion Week this Thursday, making it the brand’s first-ever appearance on the fashion calendar.
With his deep personal history with the brand, Carlson’s new role is a natural fit. “I grew up with J. Press,” he said to WWD. “I used to go to the shop in Harvard Square, and many of the first suits, shirts, ties, and belts I bought for myself were J. Press. I still have them. This role feels like coming home in many ways. J. Press is an institution – in many ways, the last of its kind.”
His unique background as a designer, archaeologist, and author (he holds a Ph.D. from Oxford) provides him with a rare perspective on heritage and tradition within the fashion space. And with his modern prep sensibilities from Rowing Blazers, Carlson is the perfect candidate to bring a contemporary edge to J. Press.
Carlson is no stranger to revitalizing heritage brands, as seen with Rowing Blazers’ collaboration with Warm and Wonderful, the knitwear label famously worn by Princess Diana. His intentions at J. Press are to celebrate its legacy of soft-shouldered suits, button-downs, and the signature “Shaggy Dog” sweater, while also introducing a new, modern editorial vision.
With plans to expand the brand and open new stores in major US cities, this appointment is a clear signal that J. Press is ready to reclaim its spot in American menswear. Stay tuned to Hypebeast for the latest fashion industry insights.
