Scots designer Jonathan Saunders joins Diane von Furstenberg

Fashion designer Jonathan Saunders. Picture: Jane Barlow

The Glasgow School of Art graduate, whose designs have been worn by celebrities such as Madonna and Kylie Minogue, will take up the position at New York-based Diane von Furstenberg.

The announcement comes five months after Mr Saunders closed the eponymous label he set up in 2003, citing personal reasons.

In a statement, the 39-year-old, known for his lively prints and use of colour, said he was excited about joining the firm. “The spirit with which this brand was founded is incredibly relevant today,” he said. “I am thrilled to be part of its next chapter.”

Ms von Furstenberg, who is chair of the company, said: “Jonathan’s extraordinary passion for colours and prints, his effortless designs and his desire to make women feel beautiful make him the perfect creative force to lead DVF into the future. I could not have found a cooler, more intelligent designer.”

Both parties said the the appointment had been made with immediate effect. Mr Saunders recently updated the profile image on Instagram to show a picture of the New York skyline, suggesting he has already taken up residence in the city.

Mr Saunders was part of a generation of designers including Christopher Kane, Erdem and Roksanda Ilincic who helped transform British fashion.

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