David Schulte, who served as the president of the prestigious luxury label The Row, founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, has reportedly stepped down from his position. This unexpected news comes as a shock to many, considering Schulte’s tenure began in November of 2016 and saw the brand achieve remarkable milestones during his leadership.
During his time at the helm, The Row successfully launched its inaugural menswear collection in 2018 and recently inaugurated its premier European flagship store in London earlier this year. These accomplishments underscore Schulte’s impact on the brand’s expansion and global presence.
Prior to his role at The Row, Schulte enjoyed a flourishing career as the chief executive officer of Oliver Peoples, a renowned luxury eyewear brand headquartered in Los Angeles. His departure coincides with the appointment of Fabrizio Fabbro as the new chief operating officer, who brings a wealth of experience from his previous position as the senior vice president of creative operations at Burberry.
Founded in 2006 by the Olsen twins, The Row has garnered praise for its sophisticated simplicity, flawless tailoring, and enduringly chic style. The brand has amassed critical acclaim over the years, receiving prestigious awards such as the CFDA Accessories Designer of the Year in 2014, 2018, and 2019, as well as the Womenswear Designer of the Year in 2012 and 2015. With stores in key fashion hubs like London, Los Angeles, and New York, The Row has solidified its presence in the luxury fashion market.
Although inquiries into Schulte’s departure have yet to yield an official statement from The Row, the brand’s future remains uncertain as it transitions through this change in leadership. However, given its established reputation and dedicated clientele, The Row is poised to endure and thrive in the competitive luxury fashion landscape.
To learn more about The Row and its iconic designs, visit The Row Official Website. For the latest updates on luxury fashion trends and industry news, explore Business of Fashion.
