What's Happening?
Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, co-creative directors at Oscar de la Renta, have announced their departure from the company to focus on their own label, Monse. Since 2016, Kim and Garcia have led Oscar de la Renta, a privately held company owned by the de la Renta family and led by Alex Bolen. Their departure was communicated to employees on September 17, and they will retain a seat on the company's board of directors. Monse, founded in 2015, is known for its deconstructed menswear-inspired designs. The brand recently showcased its spring/summer 2026 collection at New York Fashion Week, expanding its offerings to include leather bustiers and workwear pieces. Kim and Garcia have also collaborated with Shein X, mentoring independent designers for an exclusive collection launched in July 2024.
Why It's Important?
The departure of Kim and Garcia marks a significant shift in leadership at Oscar de la Renta, a renowned name in luxury fashion. Their move to focus on Monse highlights the growing trend of designers pursuing independent ventures to explore creative freedom. This transition could impact Oscar de la Renta's design direction and market positioning. Additionally, the collaboration with Shein X reflects the evolving dynamics between luxury and fast fashion, potentially influencing consumer perceptions and industry standards. The involvement of Kim and Garcia in mentoring emerging designers underscores the importance of nurturing new talent in the fashion industry.
What's Next?
Kim and Garcia's autumn/winter 2025/2026 collection for Oscar de la Renta is set to be released in February 2026, marking their final contribution to the brand. As they focus on Monse, the fashion industry will be watching for how their creative vision evolves and impacts the brand's growth. Oscar de la Renta may seek new creative leadership to maintain its legacy and adapt to changing market demands. The collaboration with Shein X could lead to further partnerships between luxury and fast fashion brands, influencing industry trends and consumer expectations.
