Some of the most established fashion designers might be considering their successors following their departure, but they’re not talking.  Designers like Karl Lagerfeld, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani are all in their 70′s, and thoughts of retirement must weigh heavily.  Even if their successors have been named, the designers are keeping silent.  Lagerfeld has already decided that he will work forever, and Chanel has publically stated that “[h]is succession is not on the agenda.” Armani, de la Renta and Lauren are the founders of their respective houses and their departure will definitely leave a void.  Any successor will be confronted with a true legacy.

So far successors of other notable fashion houses have been faced with challenges that saw them leaving prematurely and/or unceremoniously.  Tom Ford had a negative experience at Yves Saint Laurent and Lars Nilsson was essentially forced out at Gianfranco Ferre.  For now, Martin Margiela is the only house to forgo the successor route; the founder Martin Margiela will not be replaced.  Will other fashion houses take this path?  The answer will likely be dependent on the next two or three seasons at Martin Margiela, and the Margiela experiment.

Tough to let go for 70-something fashion designers [Reuters]

Sources Say It’s ‘Inconceivable’ That Chanel Isn’t Thinking About Karl Lagerfeld’s Succession [The Cut]

The collection was classic Armani with a twist, beautiful vibrant colors with a fresh and youthful spin.  He threw in hues of blues, greens and pinks.   One could easily see Rihanna in many of the pieces in the collection, including this look.  I definitely got the feeling of a more relaxed Armani, and it was wonderful.  It’s as though Mr. Armani has declared an end to the recession, and decided it was now a time for celebration.  He offfered several alternatives in dresses and tops, from the one shoulder, the strapless, to the deep plunging V.  Oh, did I mention the accessories?  They were sparkly and fun like many of the pieces in the collection.  I’m so loving the flats for spring, it’s almost as if the designers have read our minds.  We want chic served with a side of comfort.