American fashion designer Donna Karan is to step down from her duties at her namesake company Donna Karan International, it was revealed earlier this week.

Karan will remain an adviser for the brand however, the main Donna Karan line will be suspended without a replacement designer or a show at New York Fashion Week. The main focus according to LVMH Moët Hennessy – the French owners – will be on the hugely successful DKNY brand; the company’s more accessible line. After all, the brand is responsible for 80 percent of Donna Karan International’s current revenue. In her statement Karan said, “I have arrived at a point in my life where I need to spend more time to pursue my Urban Zen commitment to its fullest potential and follow my vision of philanthropy and commerce.”

Beginning her iconic brand in 1984 with an ‘Essentials’ line consisting of just seven pieces which could be alternatively worn with each other, it is truly commendable to see the global reputation the brand now has. Karan reflected on her exit, “It has been an honour to speak woman to woman about seven easy pieces that forever changed the way women dress.” 1989 saw the introduction of the more urban, younger and affordable line DKNY; a brand which includes formalwear, casual wear, sportswear and handbags. Her catwalk shows were a continuous hit with the critics, her ads renowned and her designs worn by many stars on the red carpet, from Penelope Cruz to Taylor Swift.

In 2004 Karan won the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America, adding to her awards for womenswear designer of the year (1990 and 1996) and mens designer of the year (1992).

Known for pioneering the style of a modern day working woman; practical, sensual and feminine, yet still powerful and sophisticated. Donna Karan herself may have resigned, but her legacy not only in American Fashion but on a global scale will remain.

Image Source: https://www.donnakaran.com

Rukaiyah Dadhiwala