Oscar De La Renta Retiring? Dominican Designer Names Nina Ricci’s Peter Copping His Successor

This is the end of a fantastic era, but the beginning of a very promising one! Turns out the rumors were true. Peter Copping was named creative director of Oscar de la Renta, finally putting into place a succession plan for the brand. Copping, 48, will be responsible for all product categories, including ready-to-wear, accessories, bridal and home décor, and will report to chief executive Alex Bolen and Oscar de la Renta himself, who will remain involved in every process.

“We have spent a considerable time determining how best to bring a new and important creative voice into our company,” said Bolen, who’s also the designer’s stepson-in-law. “Peter will bring a fresh perspective to our brand, continuing the evolution of our business.” He added that he and de la Renta had “followed closely Peter’s work over the last few years,” and serious talks began a few months ago. Copping was the former artistic director of Nina Ricci, and officially left the brand at the beginning of October, being immediately replaced by Guillaume Henry, former creative director at Carven.

"I’m very happy Peter has agreed to join us. He is a great talent and along with our shared design sensibilities, we both have a deep curiosity about the wider world, from music and art to architecture and gardens,” said de la Renta. “Our industry has not always done the best job when it comes to changes in design leadership. My hope is that, in leading this selection, and actively participating in the transition, I can ensure the right design future for our company and brand.”

Before Nina Ricci, Copping spent 12 years working with Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton, and although his style might be a bit more Parisian, after residing in that city for two decades, he thinks he will blend well with de la Renta. “Oscar did his time in Paris too,” Copping told Vogue. “Of all New York designers, he is the most French.” But that’s not the only similarity Copping sees with the Dominican-born designer. “We appreciate the same things ­in fashion, in dressing women, in maintaining a certain quality. And Oscar is also passionate about gardening, art, antiques, beautiful things in general. I am sure I can fit into his world and continue it.”

Copping is moving Stateside to pursue the position, and will officially join Oscar de la Renta on November 3. His first collection will be unveiled at New York Fashion Week next February. “After a career of 20 years in Paris, this is an important next step for me. Oscar de la Renta has defined American elegance for generations of women, and the opportunity to work with him and help ensure the future of the brand is very exciting,” Copping said.