Kim Jones, a British designer, has announced his decision to step down from his position as artistic director of womenswear and couture at Fendi, under the parent fashion group LVMH. Jones, 45, took over the role in September 2020, following the passing of Karl Lagerfeld. He will now focus entirely on his responsibilities as the artistic director at Dior Men’s.
During his four-year tenure at Fendi, Jones has played a pivotal role in modernizing and blending cultural aesthetics with the brand’s rich heritage. LVMH acknowledged his significant contribution, noting that he had reimagined Fendi’s ready-to-wear and couture collections, introducing an inclusive and innovative approach to fashion while upholding the brand’s Italian roots.
Bernard Arnault, the Chairman and CEO of LVMH, commended Jones for his exceptional talent and multicultural perspective that has influenced Fendi’s creative direction. Although Fendi did not mention Jones’ successor in their statement, they indicated that a new creative structure for the brand would be unveiled in the future.
LVMH’s acquisition of Fendi from the Fendi family in 1999 marked a strategic move that eventually led to the conglomerate becoming the sole owner in 2001. Today, Fendi stands as LVMH’s fourth largest fashion brand, trailing behind renowned labels like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Celine.
Jones’ departure from Fendi marks the end of an era characterized by a fusion of tradition and innovation in haute couture. His legacy at the fashion house will be remembered as a period of dynamic creativity and groundbreaking vision, setting the stage for the next chapter in Fendi’s design evolution.