The Appointment Signals A Return To Fashion Collections As The British Brand Advances Its Turnaround Strategy
Mulberry has appointed Christopher Kane as Creative Director of Women’s Ready-to-Wear, marking a renewed push into fashion as part of its ongoing repositioning under Chief Executive Officer Andrea Baldo.
The move represents a significant step in Mulberry’s “Back to the Mulberry Spirit” strategy, which aims to reconnect the brand with its British heritage while expanding beyond its core accessories business. Kane’s first collection for the house is set to debut in September 2026, with a retail launch planned for January 2027.
“Welcoming Christopher marks an important moment for Mulberry as we open a new chapter for ready-to-wear,” said Baldo. “Christopher brings a rare combination of creativity, intellectual rigour and instinctive playfulness, alongside a deep respect for craft and materials.”
Kane, a Central Saint Martins graduate and recipient of multiple British Fashion Awards, including Womenswear Designer of the Year, built his reputation through a distinctive approach that combines technical innovation with conceptual design. His appointment signals Mulberry’s intent to reestablish a fashion identity alongside its established leather goods business.
“It is an honour to join Mulberry, a brand with such a rich British heritage and a deep commitment to craft,” Kane said. “I look forward to working closely with Andrea and the team to create a new chapter of ready-to-wear that celebrates the spirit of Mulberry.”
The return to ready-to-wear marks a strategic reversal for the company. Mulberry exited clothing production in 2020, terminating its license with Onward Luxury Group as part of cost-cutting efforts during the pandemic and a renewed focus on accessories. The last collection, designed by then-creative director Johnny Coca, was released for Fall 2020.
Kane’s appointment also reflects his gradual re-entry into the industry following the closure of his eponymous label in 2023, which he operated with his sister Tammy Kane. The designer has since remained active through projects including a 2024 guest residency at Self-Portrait, where he revisited his Central Saint Martins graduate collection.
Earlier in his career, Kane collaborated with Donatella Versace on Versus and partnered with Kering between 2013 and 2018 before regaining full control of his brand. He also launched the lifestyle-focused More Joy line.
Mulberry, meanwhile, has been working to stabilize performance under Baldo, who joined in 2024. In the first half of fiscal 2025–26, group revenue declined 4 percent to £53.9 million, although wholesale grew 36 percent, supported by new partnerships with retailers including John Lewis, Liberty, and Harvey Nichols.
“We’re still early in the turnaround, but the foundations we’ve put in place are working,” Baldo said following the results, pointing to improved margins, stronger cash position, and a more focused product and pricing strategy.
Kane’s arrival is expected to play a central role in shaping Mulberry’s next phase, as the brand looks to rebuild its ready-to-wear offering while reinforcing its broader creative identity.