For Luxury Brands, the Musical Chairs Whirled Faster in 2017
Power struggles and a departure at Ralph Lauren
Less than two years into the job as chief executive of the American fashion behemoth, Stefan Larsson quit after a falling out with Mr. Lauren, saying
that he and the group’s founder had clashed over how to evolve “product, marketing and shopping experience.” The startling shake-up came at a crucial moment for one of the world’s iconic brands.
Next, after just three seasons as chief creative officer of Diane von Furstenberg,
and despite critical acclaim for his collections, Jonathan Saunders abruptly left the New York-based fashion house, which is on the hunt for new investors to fund its expansion efforts.
Mr. Bailey, who had been widely credited with transforming the brand from a local heritage name to a global fashion powerhouse, had stumbled in recent years in the joint role of creative director
and chief executive, as Burberry weathered the effects of currency volatility, slowdown in China and overexpansion.
Luke and Lucie Meier hired to revitalize Jil Sander
After three years as creative director, Rodolfo Paglialunga left Jil Sander, the house owned by the Japanese fashion conglomerate Onward Holdings.
Not done yet: Tiffany boardroom is upended
Then, only weeks later and just hours before Tiffany debuted its first Super Bowl ad, Frederic Cumenal abruptly left the company as chief executive, a move
that followed disappointing financial results and a lack of investor confidence.
Riccardo Tisci exits Givenchy
Mr. Tisci left the French fashion label after 12 years as its creative director.