Susie Crippen, who cofounded J Brand with Jeff Rudes in 2004, has rejoined the brand as creative director. “To return after seven years and be part of Fast Retailing, whose mission is intrinsically in line with the essence of J Brand, is an extraordinary opportunity,” said Crippen. “The global market has changed dramatically over the last few years and J Brand occupies an essential place in that market. I love and believe in this brand, and I know the possibilities are limitless.”
A former stylist, she and Rudes ushered in the ongoing era of the skinny jean with J Brand, building it into a major force in premium denim before selling a majority stake to Star Avenue Capital in 2010. At that point, Crippen left the company and Rudes stayed. Fast Retailing Co. Ltd. acquired an 80.1 percent in stake in J Brand in November 2012 and continues to operate the company. Rudes left J Brand in 2014.
In the interim, Crippen launched her own collection of sportswear called Crippen in 2012 and closed it earlier this year.