After eight successful years at the helm of Kenzo, designers Humberto Leon and Carol Lim will be stepping down as creative directors on July 1st. Taking over from creator Antonio Marras in 2011, Leon and Lim brought a fresh perspective to the Maison established by Kenzo Takada. They embraced a brand vision that celebrated affordable luxury and impeccable quality, aiming to bridge the gap between high fashion and streetwear.
During their tenure, the duo left a lasting impact on the brand. They reintroduced the iconic giant tiger head logo, which became synonymous with Kenzo’s modern identity. They also made bold use of vibrant colors, further enhancing the brand’s visual appeal. In 2014, they launched their first “it bag,” called the Kalifornia, sparking a streetstyle revival for Kenzo.
Kenzo, originally founded in 1970, was acquired by luxury conglomerate LVMH in 1993. Leon and Lim’s appointment in 2011 marked a milestone, making them the first American-Asian artistic directors to join an LVMH maison. Their innovative and contemporary approach to fashion brought a breath of fresh air to the industry, according to LVMH.
The duo’s final runway show for Kenzo will be held on June 23rd in Paris as part of Men’s Fashion Week. The show will showcase their Spring-Summer 2020 collection, serving as a fitting farewell to their time at the brand. While the details of their departure and the identity of their successor remain undisclosed, it is speculated that Leon and Lim will now focus on their own brand, Opening Ceremony. Founded in 2002 and based in New York, Opening Ceremony is set to receive their undivided attention, further solidifying their creative legacy.
Useful links:
1. Kenzo official website
2. Opening Ceremony website
