Harvey Nichols has appointed stylist and former Topshop director Kate Phelan to the newly created role of creative director.
Phelan, who has spent over 25 years at British Vogue and is credited with being a pivotal figure in the modern British fashion scene, will be responsible for the department store’s brand campaigns, strengthening the visual identity of the brand and its creative propositions.
She started her career at the fashion magazine in 1984 where she worked as fashion assistant for three years before joining Marie Claire as its senior fashion editor.
Phelan returned to British Vogue in 1993, where she spent 18 years as co-creative director. She then joined Topshop as its creative director from 2011 to 2017. She returned to British Vogue in 2013 in a part-time role.
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Harvey Nichols chief executive officer Julia Goddard said: “We are delighted to welcome Kate as our new Creative Director. Kate’s esteemed career in the fashion industry has been captivating, and her expertise will strengthen the leadership team at Harvey Nichols.
“Her renowned experience will be instrumental in driving Harvey Nichols forward to establish itself as the go to brand for well curated luxury fashion, delivering quality growth and successfully celebrating our brand’s unique DNA. I am very excited to see her creativity and vision come to life.”
Phelan added: “This is an exciting time in retail with many new opportunities to use the channels we have available to tell stories.
“Harvey Nichols has a wonderful history, and I very much look forward to working alongside Julia and the Harvey Nichols team in delivering a new energy and vision for the brand.”
Her appointment is one of the first major moves by former Alexander McQueen executive Goddard, who joined the retailer in June.
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