Zac Posen Is Closing His Business, but We Will Always Have These Incredible Gowns

Designer Zac Posen, a Project Runway alum who presented his first runway show in 2001, is closing his namesake business. WWD reported on the details — employees were immediately informed of the news and the Spring 2020 collection Posen showed will not be offered to customers — and Zac spoke with honesty and integrity about the decision. "We were in a sale process and we ran out of time," Zac said. He added: "There was a board vote. We had to make the call. My partners and I tried everything possible within our means to find solutions to keep it going. I have been trying to find the right strategic partners at this tough time in retail and in the industry. The clock ran out."

We're sad to hear the news as fans of the designer, who received Swarovski's Perry Ellis Award for Womenswear at the 2004 CFDA Awards (Natalie Portman showed her support at the event in this shimmering minidress). Zac also created a wonderful collection for Target in 2008, famously made a powerful statement about diversity in the fashion industry on his Fall 2016 runway, and designed Princess Eugenie's wedding reception dress, inspired by the blush hue of the English rose.

We're not the only ones reminiscing about Zac's esteemed career. Christian Siriano posted a message on Instagram, addressing the strength it takes to be a designer in 2019, for "all you fashion lovers out there." We're sure the celebrities, models, everyday customers, fans, and peers who have either worked directly with Zac or admired his work are thinking of him now.

In Fall 2014, Zac was announced as the creative director for Brooks Brothers's women's collection and accessories, and he has an ongoing partnership with Delta. He reportedly expects to continue both endeavors. Zac summed up his positive outlook to WWD: "I will always have me. I will always have my creativity." Let's appreciate the masterpieces he's brought to life for some of our favorite stars on the red carpet, including, perhaps most famously, Claire Danes's light-up Met Gala ballgown.