Noam Galai/WireImageDonna Karan, a celeb-favorite designer and icon in American ready-to-wear, is stepping down as Chief Designer of Donna Karan International after 31 years.
Karan will focus on personal affairs and philanthropy, particularly with the Urban Zen Foundation, and at the time is not seeking a replacement for her role. Production on her eponymous collection, including future runway shows, will be suspended.
"LVMH and I have made this decision after much soul-searching," Karan said in a statement. "I have arrived at a point in my life where I need to spend more time to pursue my Urban Zen commitment to its fullest potential and follow my vision of philanthropy and commerce with a focus on health care, education and preservation of cultures. After considering the right time to take this step for several years, I feel confident that DKI has a bright future and a strong team in place."
WWD reports that there are murmurings about Donna Karan Collection merging with the lower-priced DKNY brand, but if and when that will actually happen, well, only time will tell.
This is sad news for us, if only for all the stunning, marked-in-our-memories red carpet gowns she's contributed over the years. We'll miss you, Donna!