The Spanish LVMH-owned luxury brand Loewe has appointed Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, the founders of New York-based label Proenza Schouler, as its new creative directors. They succeed Jonathan Anderson, who is stepping down after an impressive eleven-year tenure. The duo will start at Loewe on 7th of april, only 3 weeks after Anderson stepping down. 

Background of McCollough and Hernandez

Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez met at Parsons School of Design, where they collaborated on their senior thesis collection. That collection was purchased in its entirety by Barneys New York, laying the foundation for the launch of Proenza Schouler in 2002. The label’s name is a combination of their mothers' maiden names.

 
For over two decades, McCollough and Hernandez have positioned Proenza Schouler as a leading force in American fashion. They are known for their innovative designs and have created iconic pieces such as the PS1 bag.

Photo: voguebusiness.com

Impact on Loewe

McCollough and Hernandez’s appointment marks a new era for Loewe. The duo is thrilled to start this new chapter in their career. In a statement, the designers said, “We are very honored to join Loewe, a house whose values and mission align closely with our own.” They added, “We look forward to working alongside its extraordinary teams and artisans, whose talent—under the exceptional creative direction of Jonathan Anderson—has shaped Loewe into the cultural force it is today.”. Under Jonathan Anderson’s leadership, the brand evolved into a globally recognized powerhouse, generating over $1.5 billion in annual revenue.  The design duo is expected to blend their signature American aesthetic with Loewe’s deep-rooted heritage and craftsmanship. They have expressed their admiration for what has been built over the past decade and their excitement about continuing this journey.

Photo: Wallpaper.com

McCollough and Hernandez will oversee all of Loewe’s collections, including womenswear, menswear, leather goods, and accessories. While they were primarily known for their womenswear at Proenza Schouler, this new role provides them with an opportunity to further develop their vision for menswear. 

As a testament to their dedication to this new chapter, McCollough and Hernandez are relocating from New York City to Paris, where Loewe’s creative offices are based. They have also expressed a strong interest in spending time in Madrid, the birthplace of Loewe, which was founded in 1846 as a leather-making collective and a supplier to the Spanish royal crown.

Photo: Thefashionspot.com

Conclusion

The appointment of Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez as creative directors of Loewe promises an exciting fusion of American innovation and European craftsmanship. With their impressive track record at Proenza Schouler, they are well-positioned to take Loewe to new heights while staying true to the brand’s core values.