Oscar de la Renta‘s Creative Directors Depart to Focus on Monse

Published
September 17, 2025

In a significant shift within the fashion industry, Oscar de la Renta has announced that its co-creative directors, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, will be stepping down from their roles. The duo, who have been instrumental in shaping the brand’s identity over the past several years, will now concentrate their efforts on their own label, Monse. This transition marks the end of an era for the iconic New York-based luxury womenswear brand.

A New Chapter for Kim and Garcia

The announcement was made via a heartfelt post on Garcia’s personal Instagram account, where he expressed both sadness and excitement about the decision. “With a heavy heart, Laura and myself want to let the world know we are completing our time at Oscar de la Renta next February and after are putting all our focus on Monse,” he wrote. Their final collection for Oscar de la Renta is set to debut in February 2026, coinciding with the upcoming New York Fashion Week.

Garcia reflected on their long tenure at Oscar de la Renta, stating, “We have spent half of our lives working with the incredible teams there plus the loving de la Renta family.” He emphasized that the decision was not made lightly, acknowledging the emotional weight of leaving a brand that has been a significant part of their lives.

A Legacy of Innovation

Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia’s journey with Oscar de la Renta began in the early 2000s. Kim joined the company in 2003 while still a student, and Garcia followed a few years later as an intern. Their rise through the ranks was marked by creativity and dedication, culminating in their appointment as co-creative directors in 2016. During their tenure, they were responsible for a wide array of collections, including ready-to-wear, bridal, accessories, and children’s lines.

Their return to Oscar de la Renta in 2016 was met with enthusiasm, as the fashion world recognized their unique ability to blend modern aesthetics with the brand’s rich heritage. Under their leadership, the brand experienced a resurgence, appealing to a younger demographic while maintaining its classic elegance.

The Impact of Their Departure

The departure of Kim and Garcia raises questions about the future direction of Oscar de la Renta. As of now, a successor has not been named, leaving the brand at a crossroads. The fashion industry is known for its rapid changes, and the absence of a clear leadership transition could impact the brand’s upcoming collections and overall strategy.

Oscar de la Renta has not participated in the official New York Fashion Week calendar since 2022, a decision that has sparked discussions about the brand’s visibility in the competitive fashion landscape. The upcoming Fall 2026 collection will be crucial in determining how the brand navigates this transitional period.

Monse: A Rising Star

As Kim and Garcia shift their focus to Monse, the brand continues to gain traction in the fashion world. Monse, founded in 2015, has carved out a niche for itself with its innovative designs and modern sensibilities. The label’s latest collection was showcased during New York Fashion Week on September 14, further solidifying its place in the industry.

Monse’s aesthetic is characterized by a blend of tailored silhouettes and relaxed styles, appealing to a contemporary audience. The brand has garnered a loyal following, and its founders’ return to full-time involvement is expected to elevate its profile even further.

Historical Context

The departure of Kim and Garcia from Oscar de la Renta is reminiscent of other notable shifts in the fashion industry. For instance, the exit of creative directors often leads to a re-evaluation of a brand’s identity. The fashion world has seen similar transitions, such as Raf Simons leaving Calvin Klein and the subsequent impact on the brand’s direction.

Oscar de la Renta, founded in 1965 by the Dominican-American designer of the same name, has a storied history of elegance and sophistication. The brand has dressed numerous high-profile figures, including First Ladies and Hollywood stars. The legacy of the brand is deeply intertwined with its founder’s vision, making the current leadership transition particularly significant.

Conclusion

The departure of Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia from Oscar de la Renta marks a pivotal moment for both the brand and the designers. As they turn their attention to Monse, the fashion world will be watching closely to see how Oscar de la Renta adapts to this change. With a rich history and a legacy of innovation, the brand faces both challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of luxury fashion. The upcoming Fall 2026 collection will undoubtedly serve as a critical indicator of its future direction.