In a news-breaking announcement today, top designer Jonathan Saunders has revealed he will be closing his self-titled label – first by stepping down as creative director and then officially ceasing the label’s action once Spring/Summer’16 orders have been met.
The decision is said to have been made together with his business partner Eiesha Bharti Pasricha, who announced investment in the brand’s future just this year, though the reasons behind the closing are cited as ‘personal’, with the designer saying in a statement;
“It is not a decision that I take lightly and I am eternally grateful to my team for all their hard work and dedication.
READ MORE: RAF SIMONS LEAVES DIOR & ALBER ELBAZ LEAVES LANVIN – IS SOCIAL MEDIA TO BLAME?Eiesha has not only been a fantastic partner over the last year, but an incredible support and we remain close. I am very thankful for all of the friends that I have across the industry, and I look forward to working with everyone again soon on future creative projects.”
The designer has been a success with editors and stars since he launched his label in 2003, with actress Thandie Newton and The First Lady Michelle Obama as fans. In fact, just two days after he showcased his MA graduate collection, he was commissioned to create prints for Alexander McQueen (subsequently creating the ‘bird of paradise ‘ It print of 2003, which made a comeback in 2008) and has went on to work with top labels like Chloe and Emilio Pucci.
The news also follows a trend in major change within the industry, with Alber Elbaz leaving Lanvin amidst dispute, and Raf Simons having also left his role at Dior, citing personal reasons.
Team SPICE will look out for further word on Jonathan Saunders’ next move (he did mention future projects) while we all bid goodbye to his award-winning mens and womenswear label.
Image source: Vogue.com, Lfwdaily.com
