Escada, a renowned fashion house celebrating its 40th anniversary, recently made a dazzling return to the runway with a show that left the audience in awe. The brand, now under the creative direction of new designer Niall Sloan, presented a collection that expertly blended Escada’s iconic aesthetic with contemporary elements, such as fluid materials and sportswear influences. The event, held at the prestigious Uptown Armory on Park Avenue, drew a crowd of fashion editors, celebrities, and influencers who eagerly awaited this highly-anticipated debut.
Originally founded by Margaretha and Wolfgang Ley, Escada gained fame in the 90s for its distinctive power-shoulder silhouette, famously worn by style icons like Joan Collins and Princess Diana. Despite facing financial difficulties in 2009, the brand was revitalized following its acquisition by billionaire Lakshmi Mittal. However, in recent years, Escada had seen a dip in its popularity until the appointment of Iris Epple-Righi as CEO in 2016 and the arrival of Sloan as the Global Design Director.
Sloan’s inaugural collection for Escada was a vibrant display of colors, modern cuts, and equestrian-inspired prints that paid homage to the brand’s rich heritage. Embracing a confident and colorful woman, Sloan’s designs offered a contemporary twist on classic Escada pieces, ensuring their relevance in today’s ever-evolving fashion landscape.
With a strong global presence boasting over 250 stores worldwide, Escada continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts in Europe, Asia, and North America. While exact revenue figures remain undisclosed, industry estimates suggest that the brand’s sales exceed 300 million euros, underscoring its enduring allure. Following the successful launch of Sloan’s collection, Escada reaffirms its status as a preeminent luxury fashion house with a storied past and a promising future ahead.
Learn more about Escada’s history and iconic designs on their official website here.
For a closer look at Niall Sloan’s debut collection for Escada, visit Vogue’s coverage of the runway show here.
