Harvey Nichols appoints Kate Phelan, marking a new chapter for the brand.
- Phelan’s career spans over 25 years with significant impact on British fashion.
- She will focus on enhancing the brand’s visual identity and campaigns.
- CEO Julia Goddard praises Phelan’s extensive experience and vision.
- Phelan expresses excitement about harnessing new opportunities in retail.
Harvey Nichols has taken a decisive step in strengthening its brand by appointing Kate Phelan as the first creative director. Phelan, renowned in the fashion industry, has been influential in shaping modern British fashion. With over 25 years of experience, her new role will focus on brand campaigns and fortifying the brand’s visual identity—a move seen as pivotal within department store circles.
Phelan began her illustrious career at British Vogue in 1984, working as a fashion assistant. Her journey continued at Marie Claire, where she held the position of senior fashion editor. In 1993, she returned to British Vogue and spent 18 years as co-creative director, further solidifying her status in the industry. From 2011 to 2017, she brought her expertise to Topshop as creative director, a role that allowed her to innovate in the retail fashion space.
The appointment comes under the guidance of Harvey Nichols’ chief executive officer, Julia Goddard, who acknowledges Phelan’s storied career in fashion. Goddard is confident that Phelan’s role will lead to ‘quality growth’ and help establish Harvey Nichols as a premier destination for curated luxury fashion. Phelan’s appointment is a significant move by Goddard, following her own recent transition from Alexander McQueen to Harvey Nichols in June.
Phelan herself has expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity: ‘This is an exciting time in retail with many new opportunities to use the channels we have available to tell stories.’ She looks forward to collaborating closely with Goddard and the team at Harvey Nichols to inject new energy and vision into the brand, capitalising on its rich history to navigate future challenges.
Phelan’s appointment is poised to shape an innovative future for Harvey Nichols.
