Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, the creative minds behind the iconic American fashion label Proenza Schouler, are stepping down as co-creative directors after nearly 25 years. their departure marks a significant shift in the New York fashion scene, especially as the Fall/Winter 2025 collections are set to debut from February 6 to 11. While Proenza Schouler will continue, the duoS exit raises questions about the brand’s future direction, with speculation suggesting they may join the Spanish luxury brand Loewe, part of the LVMH group. In their farewell statement, McCollough and Hernandez expressed a readiness for new adventures while remaining stakeholders in Proenza Schouler, hinting at exciting developments ahead for both the designers and the brand.Proenza Schouler, the acclaimed fashion brand founded by designers Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, is navigating a pivotal moment as it seeks to evolve its identity in a competitive luxury market.Known for their exclusive designs and the iconic PS1 bag, the brand has expanded significantly since its inception in 2002, now generating an estimated $60 million in annual revenue and selling in over 300 stores worldwide, including Bergdorf Goodman and Harrods. With the recent appointment of Shira Suveyke Snyder as CEO, the challenge lies in finding a designer who can uphold the brand’s legacy while adapting to the changing landscape dominated by European luxury giants. As Proenza Schouler aims to maintain its youthful image and innovative spirit, the fashion world watches closely to see how it will redefine itself in the coming years.Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez,the visionary duo behind Proenza Schouler,have officially announced their departure from the brand they co-founded,marking a significant shift in the fashion landscape. Known for their innovative designs and the iconic PS1 bag, which propelled the label to international acclaim, the designers have left fans and industry insiders speculating about the future direction of Proenza Schouler. As the fashion world anticipates new leadership, questions arise about potential successors and the brand’s next chapter in a rapidly evolving market. This transition comes at a time when the fashion industry is experiencing a wave of changes, prompting discussions about the implications for both the brand and its loyal clientele [1[1[1[1][2[2[2[2][3[3[3[3].
Q&A: The Future of Proenza Schouler After the Departure of jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez
Time.news Editor: Today, we’re diving into a significant shift in the fashion world with the departure of Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, the co-founders of Proenza Schouler. After nearly 25 years at the helm, their exit raises many questions. What do you think this means for Proenza Schouler’s future?
Fashion Expert: it’s undeniably a pivotal moment for Proenza Schouler. McCollough and hernandez have defined the brand’s identity since its inception in 2002,crafting exclusive designs and introducing iconic pieces like the PS1 bag. Their departure could lead to a transformative phase for the label, especially with the Fall/Winter 2025 collections looming on the horizon.
Time.news Editor: With their announcement,there’s speculation about their next move—possibly a role with Loewe,part of the LVMH group. How might this impact both Proenza Schouler and their potential future with Loewe?
Fashion Expert: Should they join Loewe, it would certainly make waves in the luxury industry, given Loewe’s strong European presence and high-fashion reputation. Though, McCollough and Hernandez have stated that they will remain stakeholders in Proenza Schouler, suggesting they may still play a role in guiding its future direction. This dual involvement could lead to a unique synergistic relationship, allowing them to affect both brands positively.
Time.news Editor: What challenges do you see ahead for proenza Schouler, particularly with the recent appointment of Shira Suveyke Snyder as CEO?
Fashion expert: Shira Suveyke snyder starts her role with the challenging task of maintaining the brand’s legacy while adapting to a rapidly changing market dominated by European luxury giants. She’ll need to find a designer who resonates with the brand’s youthful and innovative spirit, ensuring that Proenza Schouler remains relevant and competitive. It’s a delicate balancing act—upholding the brand’s DNA while infusing fresh ideas.
time.news Editor: Proenza Schouler generates an estimated $60 million annually and sells in over 300 stores worldwide.How crucial is it for the new leadership to preserve this commercial success?
Fashion Expert: Maintaining financial stability is critical, especially in today’s competitive luxury landscape.As consumer preferences shift, the new leadership will need to explore innovative marketing strategies and possibly expand into untapped markets while staying true to the aesthetic that made Proenza Schouler a household name. Success in this area depends on a keen understanding of consumer trends and effective brand storytelling.
Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, how might Proenza Schouler redefine itself in the coming years post-McCollough and Hernandez?
Fashion Expert: The brand has a rich heritage to draw from, but it also needs to evolve.It could explore collaborations to attract new audiences or delve into sustainable practices, which are increasingly critically important to today’s consumers. The legacy of McCollough and Hernandez provides a strong foundation, but the new direction could position Proenza Schouler as a trendsetter once again.
Time.news editor: as the industry watches closely, what practical advice would you give to industry insiders and fashion enthusiasts regarding the evolving landscape of Proenza Schouler?
Fashion Expert: I would advise them to stay engaged with the brand’s developments, as these changes will likely influence broader trends in American fashion. It’s also essential to keep an open mind about how new leadership might reinterpret the brand’s vision. For consumers, being aware of these shifts can enhance their understanding and gratitude of the clothing and the stories behind them.
The landscape of fashion is always evolving, and Proenza Schouler’s journey is one to observe closely. Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez may be stepping back,but their influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the brand’s future.