Aileen Kim (11) | STAFF REPORTER
Aileen Kim (11) | STAFF REPORTER
On November 21, 2022, the well-known and respected Belgian fashion designer, Raf Simons, announced on his brand’s official Instagram page that the Spring/Summer 2023 collection (shown in October in London) would be the conclusion and the final season of his eponymous brand ‘Raf Simons’. The news was very unexpected and sudden to the public as the Belgian designer has been promoting his seasonal campaigns, home goods, and collaborations so promptly.
Raf Simons stated in his post, “I lack the words to share how proud I am of all that we have achieved. – Thank you all, for believing in our vision and for believing in me.” There has been no specific reason given by Simons as to why he decided to close his brand which has been going on for nearly three decades.
Many people are upset with his decision as Raf Simons has influenced the fashion and art industry significantly with his contributions over the course of three decades, especially with his personal brand. To briefly share his contributions to the industry, he first launched his brand ‘Raf Simons’ in 1995 – a menswear brand inspired by youth culture and held successful creative director roles at Jil Sandler, Christian Dior, and Calvin Klein before taking the co-creative director at Prada alongside Miuccia Prada in April 2020.
The good news is that Simons is not completely retiring from the fashion industry. The designer will continue to work with Miuccia Prada.
It is very disappointing to hear that Raf Simons has decided to close down his iconic and internationally influential brand. However, this will be the end of one era and the start of another in his journey. He brought strong impact and change to culture and young people through his art and fashion – since then, now, and for the future.
