The Spanish Company Is Set to Revive the Designer’s Exuberant Vision
Sociedad Textil Lonia, a Spanish textile manufacturing and design firm, has acquired the iconic French brand Christian Lacroix from the US-based Falic Group, owners of Duty Free Americas. The terms of the purchase, described as a “private transaction,” were not disclosed. STL, which also owns the Spanish label Purificación García and the CH Carolina Herrera brand, aims to restore the former glory of the Lacroix brand, renowned for its vibrant and theatrical designs.
Christian Lacroix, established in 1987 by its namesake designer with backing from luxury conglomerate LVMH, became famous for its bold and exuberant fashion, epitomizing the extravagance of the 1980s. Despite its initial success, the brand faced financial difficulties and ceased its haute couture operations in 2009 after implementing a recovery plan that included significant job cuts. Lacroix, who is now focused on designing for ballet and opera, will not be involved with the brand in any official capacity, but was said to have given his blessing to the sale.
“We will do everything we can to ensure that the unique talent of its creator and his invaluable contribution to the world of fashion reach their full potential,” STL stated, emphasizing a philosophical alignment with Lacroix’s vision and craftsmanship. The acquisition allows STL to further cement its presence in the high fashion sector, adding to its extensive portfolio which includes operating 600 stores globally.
The Lacroix brand has continued to influence fashion, evidenced by collaborations with designers like Dries Van Noten in 2019. Additionally, vintage Lacroix pieces remain highly sought after in celebrity circles, appearing regularly on red carpets.
STL, founded in 1997 and headquartered in Ourense, Spain, is part of a larger fashion and fragrance enterprise that includes significant stakes by the Puig group. The company plans to take a careful approach to integrating and expanding the Lacroix brand to ensure its strategic alignment with STL’s long-term objectives in the luxury market.