Vince founders return home to the brand
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London - American luxury label Vince is set to welcome its founders Rea Laccone and Christopher LaPolice back on a temporary basis, as the duo have agreed to return to the brand they founded 13 years ago under a two year consulting agreement. Together the duo will oversee Vince's creative direction, product and merchandising, reported the brand on Monday.
"Rea and Christopher, who created the original vision for Vince 13 years ago, bring tremendous creative talent to the brand," commented Brendan Hoffman, Chief Executive Officer, in a press statement. "We look forward to drawing upon their design and merchandising expertise to enhance our product offering. While product is our first priority, we are also working to develop a strong foundation from which we can drive consistent profitable growth for the long term."
Laccone and LaPolice founded the brand back in 2002, but left in early 2013 before the label went public. "Christopher and I are excited to be returning to Vince as this is a brand with tremendous long-term potential," said Laccone on their return. "We believe that customers have looked to Vince for everyday luxury essentials with modern, effortless style and we will work with the team to deliver product that reflects this aesthetic."
The premium label, known for its luxurious basics is said to have suffered a number of product issues lately as well as a dip in stock prices and management reshuffle. However Hoffman, who was appointed CEO last month, aims to turn this around with the help of the founding team. "I’ve known Christopher for a long time, and I’ve gotten to know Rea over the last month. No one understands what Vince should be better than the two of them," said Hoffman to WWD. The two are currently working on developing Vince's fall collection, which will be the first collection to show signs of their return.
Vince offers womenswear, menswear and childrenswear as well as footwear and handbags. Laccone and LaPolice originally sold the brand to Kellwood in 2006 and remained on board for 7 years, 2 more than originally planned as Kellwoord was sold to Sun Capital in 2008 before going public in November, 2013.