Maiyet names creative director

Luxury artisanal brand Maiyet, launched by human rights lawyer Paul Van Zyl in 2010, has named former design director at Alexander Wang, Declan Kearney as its creative director.

Kearney will be responsible for all ready-to-wear and accessories, as well as advertising campaigns and brand imagery, and his appointment comes as the ethical label looks to grow its name, as well as its categories with a denim and T-shirt line planned as well as a focus on shoes and bags.

“We are at a crucial juncture,” Van Zyl told the New York Times. “It’s a response to the growth and a way to expand our reach.”

Van Zyl added: "We wanted someone with major brand experience, technical abilities, especially when it comes to tailoring; a sense of print and pattern; and someone who shared our values and saw the creative possibilities working with artisans."

Kearney leant his trade in Northern Ireland, where he attended the University of Ulster in Belfast before spending a year at Central Saint Martins after an internship at British brand Boudicca. In addition to working at Alexander Wang, Kearney also worked for Jason Wu, Calvin Klein and Roberto Cavalli.

Kearney's debut for the label will come in June with the resort collection.