November 21, 2022 |
Raf Simons, arguably the most influential menswear designer of his generation, has announced the closure of his namesake label. In a post shared on the brand’s official Instagram, Simons confirmed that his SS23 collection would be the brand’s last.
“The Spring/Summer 2023 collection is the conclusion of an extraordinary 27 year journey and the final season of the Raf Simons fashion brand,” wrote the designer.
The collection, unveiled in London during Frieze in October, was a milestone moment for the brand – now doubling as Simons’ swan song.
“I lack the words to share how proud I am of all that we achieved. I am grateful for the incredible support from my team, from my collaborators, from the press and buyers, from my friends and family, and from our devoted fans and loyal followers. Thank you all, for believing in our vision and for believing in me.”
Simons, who is the co-creative director of Prada alongside Miuccia Prada, continued designing collections for his namesake label throughout his various tenures at luxury goliaths, including Jil Sander, Dior, and Calvin Klein.
Through the 1990s and ’00s, the designer ushered in a slender, graphic-heavy style fed by inner-city youth culture, inspiring a legion of designers behind him. Simons’ influence has been felt on a global scale.
