RTA, the Los Angeles-based fashion brand, has officially announced the departure of Robert Liptak, its former designer and creative director. This news adds to the recent series of departures and dismissals in the fashion industry, including Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s dismissal from Ann Demeulemeester and Rhuigi Villaseñor’s departure from Bally.
While disagreements over artistic direction are often cited as the reason for these sudden dismissals, RTA’s decision has raised questions about the brand’s overall strategy and its decision-making process, particularly given that it was made before the sales results of the new collection were released.
Liptak was appointed as RTA’s creative director last November with the task of repositioning the brand entirely. The aim was to move away from its previous rock and gothic aesthetic and create a more elevated and assertive image. Liptak made significant changes, introducing a new logo and redesigning storefronts. His first collection launched in May.
According to David Rimokh, the CEO and founder of RTA, the decision to part ways with Liptak is primarily due to the current economic climate. Rimokh stated that negative market results, retailers cutting budgets, and customers’ overwhelming demand for basic products influenced the decision. However, he emphasized that Liptak remains a talented creative director.
Liptak has not publicly responded to Rimokh’s statement. The brand has also let go of a significant portion of its team, but Rimokh confirmed that RTA will continue with an in-house design team led by himself.
In a move reflecting the brand’s desire to return to its roots, RTA’s Instagram account has re-posted the old logo with the tagline “Back to basics.” This suggests that the brand is embracing a simpler and more minimalist approach in the future.
Despite the challenges posed by the current economic climate and the departures of key team members, RTA remains optimistic about its future. The brand is determined to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing fashion industry.
For more information about RTA, visit their official website: https://www.rtabrand.com.
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