Alber Elbaz Is Leaving Lanvin

Alber Elbaz is stepping down from his position as the creative director of Lanvin after 14 years in the job. An official announcement is expected from the brand imminently, however Elbaz this evening released his own personal statement in which he confirmed his departure and revealed that the decision was not his. Elbaz is known not only for his talent, but also for his generosity (he regularly sends flowers to other designers before their shows) and his self-questioning. "At this time of my departure from Lanvin on the decision of the company's majority shareholder, I wish to express my gratitude and warm thoughts to all those who have worked with me passionately on the revival of Lanvin over the last 14 years; express my affection to all my wonderful colleagues in the Lanvin ateliers who accompanied me, and who enriched and supported my work," Elbaz wrote on his statement. "Together we have met the creative challenge presented by Lanvin and have restored its radiance and have returned it to its rightful position among France's absolute luxury fashion houses.” WWD reports that the Israeli designer’s departure follows disagreements with the company owner, Shaw-Lan Wang, and CEO, Michèle Huiban. He is said to have asked Wang to sell her stake to make way for a more strategic owner who could better target investment and capitalize on development potential.