Reed Krakoff Leaves Coach

REED KRAKOFF will step down from his role asCoach's president and executive creative director in June 2014, having served in the position for 16 years. The US fashion label is currently searching for a new design head.

"[Krakoff's] contribution in evolving Coach from a house of American leather goods to a leading international accessories brand is immeasurable and we have great admiration and respect for Reed's significant accomplishments," said Coach chairman and chief executive officer Lew Frankfort.

The move comes amid news that Coach is exploring "strategic options" for Krakoff's eponymous label, that it launched in 2010. The plans "may involve a sale to a group, in which Krakoff would participate", WWDreports.

"I am grateful to Lew Frankfort and to the members of the board for the support and the amazing opportunities I have been given," Krakoff said. "I have every confidence in the Coach creative team and thank them for their dedication."

In January this year, Coach announced that it was rebranding itself as a lifestyle brand - with a renewed focus on its women's ready-to-wear. Former Paul Smith creative design director Sandra Hill was hired to head up the category.