Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez: A New Era at Loewe

In the heart of Paris, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez are embarking on an ambitious journey as the creative directors of Loewe, a key player in the LVMH portfolio. Both partners are seasoned veterans of the fashion industry, having built and nurtured Proenza Schouler for 23 years in New York City. Now, they face a fresh set of challenges at Loewe, a house steeped in history but alive with potential for innovation. With a commitment to creativity and craftsmanship, McCollough and Hernandez are ready to redefine the brand’s identity.

A Transition to Paris

Transitioning from Brooklyn to Paris hasn’t been without its hurdles. McCollough described the evening before their first show at Loewe as feeling like the “first day of school.” The duo has been working around the clock, pulling long hours to manage their new responsibilities. Despite the stress, both designers embrace the exhilarating freedom that comes with their positions. “Loewe is all about pushing boundaries and expressing creativity,” Hernandez says. For them, it is not just a job but an opportunity to unleash their artistic instincts, a dream they have harbored for decades.

A Shared History

The partnership between McCollough and Hernandez is rich with history. They met in 1998 as students at Parsons, where a collaboration led to the launch of Proenza Schouler, named after their mothers’ maiden names. Their creative synergy proved fruitful, earning them five Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) awards. Their friendship deepened, and after passing the reins of Proenza Schouler to Rachel Scott, the duo eagerly accepted the opportunity at Loewe. “We just feel so lucky to be at this specific house,” reflects McCollough.

The Pillars of Loewe’s New Identity

At the core of their vision for Loewe, McCollough and Hernandez established three foundational pillars that outline their creative direction: Spanishness, American aesthetics, and craft. “Spanishness” explores the rich cultural nuances of Spain, avoiding clichés like flamenco or bullfighting. Instead, they focus on the passion and sensuality of the culture, which beautifully translate into vibrant designs that celebrate body and color. Meanwhile, their vision of “Americanness” emphasizes a laid-back, preppy aesthetic that resonates with their East Coast upbringing.

Reimagining Craftsmanship

Craftsmanship is another critical element of the Loewe identity. The brand has a legacy of high-quality leather goods, originally founded in 1846. McCollough and Hernandez aim to redefine this by integrating high-tech methodologies. “We’re playing with how you can craft something to such a high level that you almost erase the hand,” Hernandez shares. This innovative approach harkens back to minimalism and highlights the allure of modern craftsmanship, setting Loewe apart in a crowded marketplace.

A Focused Vision

With their extensive experience at Proenza Schouler, McCollough and Hernandez bring a disciplined approach to their new role. They are firmly grounded in their three pillars, ensuring that their vision is coherent and clear. There’s a distinct commitment to not diluting their message as they navigate the complexities of haute couture. The sheer excitement of their new chapter doesn’t overshadow their pragmatic outlook; they are keenly aware of maintaining brand identity while introducing fresh and unexpected designs.

As they continue to develop Loewe’s identity, McCollough and Hernandez symbolize a blend of creativity and rigor that could usher in a transformative era for the fashion house. Their journey reflects the richness of collaboration, ingenuity, and the drive to stay connected to their roots while charting new pathways in the vibrant world of fashion.

For more on Loewe’s latest collections and upcoming events, visit Loewe’s Official Site.

For insights into the fashion industry and the latest designer collaborations, consider exploring articles in the realm of Vogue’s Fashion coverage.

In summary, McCollough and Hernandez are poised to redefine Loewe’s identity, melding their unique backgrounds and experiences into a new vision that honors both tradition and innovation in fashion.