Donna Karan taking her final bow at her spring 2015 show in NY
Donna Karan is stepping down as chief designer of the label she founded in 1984 with her husband Stephen Weiss and Takiyho Inc. Known for pieces that can easily transition from day to night, season to season, the designer reportedly made the decision so she could dedicate more time to her Urban Zen Company and Foundation.
The choice to step down was made in concert with DKI's parent company, LMVH. "LVMH and I have made this decision after much soul-searching," the designer explains, "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 with a focus on health care, education and preservation of cultures."
Donna Karan spring 2015 show
However, this may not be goodbye entirely. Karan will still remain a close advisor to the label, and says that Donna Karan will always be a part of her. "Donna Karan is a part of me, past, present and future. It has been an honor to speak woman to woman about 'Seven Easy Pieces' that forever changed the way women dress," Karan told the trade, "I want to express my gratitude and my deepest feelings to the dozens and dozens of colleagues over the years who have helped take Donna Karan New York far beyond my wildest dreams."
All DKNY's runway shows and collections will also be suspended for now. Guess this means we'll have to make do with our old pieces, till a new designer takes over.