Departure of Creative Directors

Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, the creative directors of Oscar de la Renta, are leaving their roles after nine years. This move creates another designer vacancy in the fashion industry.

Background

Kim and Garcia were appointed co-creative directors of Oscar de la Renta in 2016, following the death of the brand’s founder. They previously worked at Oscar de la Renta and later founded their own brand, Monse, in 2015. The designers have decided not to comment on their departure.

Focus on Monse

With their departure from Oscar de la Renta, Kim and Garcia will focus on their brand, Monse. They recently showcased their latest collection at a runway show in New York on September 14th. The collection featured an expansion of the brand’s leather offerings and workwear-inspired pieces.

Impact on the Fashion Industry

The news comes at an important time for the fashion industry, with several high-profile designer changes taking place. New York Fashion Week has seen the debut of new designers at top fashion houses, including Chanel and Dior Women’s. The search for a new creative director at Oscar de la Renta is expected to begin shortly.

Future of Oscar de la Renta

The brand, known for its evening wear and wedding dresses, has been led by CEO Alex Bolen for two decades. The search for a new creative director will commence once Kim and Garcia have presented their final collections for the brand, expected for the pre-fall and fall/winter 2026 season.

Monse’s Latest Collection

Monse’s recent show celebrated the brand’s 10-year anniversary and featured a unique blend of distorted and familiar pieces. The collection was showcased against a backdrop of priceless works of art borrowed from collectors. The brand’s designers are known for their deconstructed and avant-garde approach to fashion.