Co-founder of J Brand returns as Creative Director

London - J Brand has announced the return of one of its co-founders, Susie Crippen as Creative Director.

“I love this brand and there is nothing more thrilling than the opportunity ahead of me,” said Crippen in a statement on her return. Crippen, who founded the premium denim brand in 2004 with Jeff Rudes, previously left the brand in 2010, after the company sold a majority stake to Star Avenue Capital. Rudes remained with the company until 2014, two years after Japanese conglomerate Fast Retailing acquired a 80.1 percent in the denim company.

Crippen is set to officially return to J Brand in early December. “To return after seven years and be part of Fast Retailing, whose mission is intrinsically in line with the essence of J Brand, is an extraordinary opportunity,” said Crippen to WWD on her return. “The global market has changed dramatically over the last few years and J Brand occupies an essential place in that market. I believe in this brand, and I know the possibilities are limitless.”

A former stylist, Crimean and Rudes have been credited with helping drive the global rise of the skinny jeans in 2004. Based in California, J Brand currently operates numerous concessions in department stores and selected retailers in over 25 countries around the world.

Image: J Brand