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    Now reading: after 26 years, jenna lyons is leaving j. crew

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    after 26 years, jenna lyons is leaving j. crew

    The chief design officer and in-house muse will leave the brand at the end of the year, and significantly reduce her involvement over coming months.

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    After an astounding 26 years, Jenna Lyons is stepping down as chief design officer at J. Crew. Her role will be filled by current head of women’s design Somsack Sikhounmuong. Although, after a relationship this expansive you can’t really expect her to just pack up her desk. In a statement, she explained she’ll be staying on as a creative advisor until her contract expires in December.

    Since joining the company in 1990 Lyons’ personal style has massively influenced the brand. Over the decades she’s acted as not only a company head, but also something of an in-house muse, informing J Crew’s androgynous and tailored style.

    Speaking to Business of Fashion, chief executive Millard Drexler said the decision was mutual, and he and Lyons “agreed it was time for a change.” It was also reported that Lyons has been distancing herself from the role for sometime, spending less time on day-to-day duties.

    While she’s made no statement about her next steps she did comment: “I am excited about the next chapter for J.Crew as well as the opportunity for other creative leaders within the organisation to step up and take on new responsibilities. Having spent the better part of my life with J.Crew, I feel an immense pride and love for everyone at the company.”

    Lyon’s replacement Sikhounmuong has been with J Crew since 2011, he had previously led design at sister label Madewell. Needless to say he has big shoes to fill, and they’re probably brogues.

    Credits


    Text Wendy Syfret
    @jennalyonsstyle

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