Well here’s some unexpected news. After launching her own company in 2004, Devi Kroell is stepping down as chief executive officer and creative director. She’ll remain a shareholder and board member, but will have no involvement with the day-to-day running of the business which bears her name.
Details for her decision haven’t been forthcoming, so one wonders whether the Bartel family’s recent investment in the fashion house has anything to do with it. The Bartel family, known for their big ticket investment in fashion houses including Lanvin, bought a major stake of Devi Kroell just a few months ago. The timing does seem pretty coincidental if nothing else.
I’ve always been a fan of Devi Kroell’s gorgeous snakeskin handbags and shoes; even her diffusion line for Target looked chic and sophisticated despite their affordable price tags. There’s something sad about a company losing its face when she’s still at the top of her game. I hope to see her venturing into another creative endeavor soon.
[Image Source: Bbaunach/Flickr]
