It was quite a tumultuous week in the fashion world as two high-impact announcements from renowned creative directors took place. First Raf Simons’ announcement that the Belgian designer’s eponymous fashion label would close after almost 30 years in the business, and then Alessandro Michele breaking the news of his departure from Gucci.
“I lack words to share how proud I am of all that we have achieved,” Simons wrote in the Instagram announcement, which triggered an outpour of support. “I am grateful for the incredible support from my team, from my collaborators, from the press and buyers, from my friends and family, and from our devoted fans and followers.”
The brand just made its London runway debut in London for Spring 2023, staging a brilliant runway of party-inspired pieces, despite a design history of minimalistic office wear. In hindsight that victorious show is bittersweet, as no one knew at the time that would be its last show.
Known for his love of rebellious youth cultures and elegance across menswear and womenswear, Simons has established himself as a multi-talented designer through his work at his namesake brand, launched in 1995, and at various world-renowned luxury houses.
The Belgian creative began his career in furniture, which he studied in Antwerp, before setting his sights on fashion. Simons has donned many hats over the years, first as creative director of Jil Sander, artistic director of Christian Dior, as well as CFDA-winning chief creative officer of Calvin Klein.
Whilst the designer may have other plans lined up for himself, we can expect to continue seeing his work on the runway for Prada, where he has been the co-creative director at since 2020.
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