Proenza Schouler Founders Step Down as Creative Directors After 22 Years
The fashion world was rocked this week as Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, the dynamic duo behind Proenza Schouler, announced their departure from the brand they founded over two decades ago. Effective January 31, the designers will no longer serve as creative directors, but will remain on the board and as minority shareholders.
But don’t worry, fashion lovers, this isn’t the last we’ll see of McCollough and Hernandez. They are said to be working closely with Proenza Schouler’s CEO Shira Suveyke Snyder to find a new creative lead to take over their roles. And rumor has it, the designers may be headed to LVMH’s Loewe to replace Jonathan Anderson, who is also rumored to be leaving for Dior.
According to Vanessa Friedman of the New York Times, it’s rare for designers to leave a brand they founded while it’s still successful and at a relatively young age (both McCollough and Hernandez are only 46). This has sparked speculation that there may have been a falling out with a backer or that the designers have another job lined up.
In a statement, Hernandez explained, “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. We have always valued risk-taking and a sense of adventure and feel ready to open ourselves up for whatever comes next.” McCollough added, “While change is never easy, this decision feels like the right step at the right time, at this stage in our lives.”
Known for their European-inspired, timeless cool aesthetic, the designers have caught the eye of top fashion houses overseas. In 2007, Valentino Fashion Group acquired a stake in Proenza Schouler, and LVMH has reportedly shown interest in bringing the duo on board at one of their prestigious fashion houses. Only time will tell where McCollough and Hernandez will end up next, but one thing is for sure: the fashion world will be watching closely.
