Phillip Lim has announced that he’s stepping down as the creative director of his namesake brand, 3.1 Phillip Lim label, ending a two-decade journey with his partner and cofounder, Wen Zhou. Lim’s final bow as the creative force behind the brand unfolded during the recent New York Fashion Week, where his Spring/Summer 2025 collection, then unbeknownst to us, not only celebrated 20 years of 3.1 Phillip Lim but also marked the end of an era. Lim’s creations have become staples for those seeking both style and ease, and his departure leaves a palpable void in the American fashion landscape.
In their joint farewell message, Lim and Zhou reflected on their partnership with evident gratitude and pride. “We are incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made over the past 20 years,” they shared, highlighting their shared commitment to creativity, responsibility, and fostering a true community around the brand. Zhou will continue to helm 3.1 Phillip Lim as CEO but plans for a new creative director have yet to be announced, leaving the industry speculating on the future direction of the label.
The 3.1 Phillip Lim brand has weathered many storms. Founded in 2005 with the mission to make “accessible beauty” a reality, Lim and Zhou built a brand that has remained independent while growing into a global name. The brand’s signature blend of casual sophistication and functionality spans categories from dresses and tailoring to bags and footwear, all marked by a balance between style and practicality at accessible luxury price points.
For Lim, this exit–as he pointed out in his Instagram post–represents “a time to write a new story.” Having recently received an honorary degree from his alma mater, California State University, Long Beach, he now intends to channel his energy into service and new creative ventures. Zhou, meanwhile, will carry the brand forward, building on the legacy she and Lim created.
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