Zac Posen named creative director of Brooks Brothers

Brooks Brothers, one of America’s oldest fashion brands, has hired fashion designer Zac Posen as creative director for its signature womenswear collection. Posen, who has designed for the likes of Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow and Naomi Watts, will be in charge of both apparel and accessories

for women, as well as brand development and presentation for the women’s section of the label as part of the brand’s modernisation plan.

Commenting on his appointment, Posen said: "I am truly honoured and excited to be embarking on

this incredible opportunity to take the Brooks Brothers Women's brand into the future while respecting its deep, rich American heritage as an institutional company."

Brooks Brothers hires Zac Posen

Claudio Del Vecchio, chairman and CEO of Brooks Brothers, added: "We are thrilled to have Zac join us as creative director of our women's Collection.

"As soon as we met, it was clear to us that he had a true understanding of our brand and its storied 196 year heritage as well as the creativity to modernise our offerings within the category."

In a statement, the US apparel company confirmed that Posen will join fellow designer Thom Browne at the label, who will continue to head up the men’s Brooks Brothers Black Fleece collection, and that Posen’s first collection for the label will debut for spring/summer 2016 and will be available worldwide.

Currently womenswear at the brand accounts for 20 percent of Brooks Brothers’ business and it is expected that with Posen involved that number is expected to grow. Posen will continue to helm his eponymous label.

Image: Zac Posen