An aughts-era revival is underway and this time, it’s not just about runway references. Mulberry has officially announced Christopher Kane as its new creative director of women’s ready-to-wear, bringing together two defining names from London’s 2000s fashion scene.

For Mulberry, the appointment signals a clear shift. Long known for its accessories particularly its cult-status handbags, the British house is now setting its sights firmly on expanding its ready-to-wear presence. CEO Andrea Baldo described the move as “an important moment,” highlighting Kane’s blend of creativity, playfulness and respect for craftsmanship as a natural fit for the brand’s heritage.

Kane, for his part, called the role an honour, pointing to Mulberry’s deep-rooted British identity and commitment to craft. His first collection for the house is set to debut in September 2026, a moment that will likely define the brand’s next era.

Kane’s return to the spotlight feels particularly significant given his history. He first broke onto the scene with his 2006 Central Saint Martins graduate collection, immediately catching the attention of industry power players like Donatella Versace. Though he initially turned down her offer to join Versace, he later collaborated on Versus Versace, cementing his place in the industry.

With his own label, Kane built a reputation for pushing boundaries. His designs often played with the tension between elegance and provocation, neon lace, body-conscious silhouettes and unexpected references became signatures. From his gorilla-print Fall 2008 collection inspired by Planet of the Apes to his early collaboration with Crocs in 2017 (long before the industry fully embraced the silhouette), Kane consistently stayed ahead of the curve.

After closing his eponymous label in 2023, he kept a relatively low profile, aside from a 2024 capsule with Self-Portrait. His appointment at Mulberry now marks a full-circle return and one that positions him back at the centre of the fashion conversation.

Founded in 1971, Mulberry rose to global prominence in the early 2000s with its It bags, including the Bayswater and Alexa, carried by style figures like Alexa Chung and Kate Moss. Today, the brand remains a cornerstone of British style, with fans ranging from industry insiders to Catherine, Princess of Wales.

With Kane now leading its ready-to-wear vision, Mulberry is clearly looking beyond its handbag legacy. The question isn’t whether the brand is entering a new era, it’s how far this next chapter will take it.