Companies

Uniqlo appoints Clare Waight Keller as Creative Director

Sep 9, 2024 Japan

Japan-based Fast Retailing has announced the appointment of the British designer Clare Waight Keller as its new creative director. She has previously worked at the luxury houses Givenchy and Chloé

After overseeing the design of the “Uniqlo: C” womenswear line since September 2023, Waight Keller will become Uniqlo’s new creative director for men’s and women’s core collections from Autumn/Winter 2024. The British designer has previously served as creative director at LVMH-owned Givenchy and Richemont’s Chloé.

“We are proud to welcome Ms. Clare Waight Keller as the Creative Director of Uniqlo. Along with her exceptional originality and wide-ranging experience, I have been impressed by her excellent sense of balance, which never forgets the perspective of the consumer”, commented Tadashi Yanai, Fast Retailing Chairman, President and CEO.

Yukihiro Katsuta, Group Senior Executive Officer and Head of R&D for Uniqlo, added: “Clare Waight Keller's work with Uniqlo: C has convinced me that she is one of the few creators in the world able to achieve a high level of balance between creation and merchandising. I believe that the experience, knowledge, and skills she has amassed, based on a keen aesthetic sense and intellect, will greatly expand the world of Uniqlo LIFE Wear”.

Best known for its affordable basics, this move allows Uniqlo to expand its partnerships with top luxury designers. Previous collaborations have included the likes of J.W. Anderson, Jil Sander, Marni and Christophe Lemaire (who serves as creative director of the ‘Uniqlo U’ sub-brand).

Image Credits: fastretailing.com

Japan Companies Fashion Fast Retailing Management