Daily Front Row

2012 November 19

Christopher Kane Parts Ways With Versus

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Christopher Kane and Donatella Versace take a bow.
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(NEW YORK) Christopher Kane and Versus have amicably parted ways. The Scottish designer has helmed Versace's diffusion line since 2009, helping Donatella Versace relaunch the brand after a four-year hiatus. The Italian fashion house plans to reposition the label by ceasing production of seasonal collections in favor of seasonless capsules and limited-editions designed by Versace in collaboration with a myriad of established and emerging talents. The new Versus goods, including men's, women's, and possibly additional categories like furniture, will kick off in the spring in tandem with special events.

In other Kane news, the designer has been quite buzzed about this weekend: On Friday, French news magazine, Le Nouvel Observateur, reported that Kane would succeed Nicolas Ghesquière as Balenciaga's creative director when Ghesquière officially steps down on December 1. Naturally, the item went viral, leading to a flurry of phone calls and inquiring emails; thus far, Kane's camp has shot down the speculation as "unfounded". However, the designer is still being touted as a top pick for the position along with a short list of names such as Joseph Altuzarra, Mary Katrantzou, Thomas Tait, and Alexander Wang.

The London-based designer launched his eponymous label for Spring 2007, garnering international acclaim for his use of vibrant colors and patterns, unexpected embellishments, and expert tailoring. The label is currently stocked at retailers such as Barneys New York, Colette, Opening Ceremony, Neiman Marcus, Harrods, and Harvey Nichols.
MARIA DENARDO