Deborah Lloyd, Banana Republic's executive vice president of product design and development, has been named co-president and creative director of Liz Claiborne's Kate Spade label as part of its plans
to expand the brand to additional product categories and more than triple its sales over the next three years.
Spade will focus on correcting its core handbags, footwear and small leather
goods businesses between fall 2008 and fall 2009, says Claiborne CEO William L. McComb. But he adds that Lloyd could decide to launch categories such as jewelry by fall 2009, and apparel by spring
2010. McComb says Lloyd is particularly excited about jewelry, and has suggested starting with specific apparel pieces--for example, iconic white blouses--before launching a complete sportswear
collection.
Lloyd replaces Kate Spade, who, with her husband, Andy, said in July that they would step down from their respective roles as designer and CEO after the expiration of the
couple's service agreement with Claiborne. The company is still searching for a co-president with an emphasis on retail and merchandising.
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