NAVIGATION
86 A Designer's Inheritance
It's never too early to be thinking about the
future, specifically the passing on of a creative
mantle-a fashion designer's last will and testa
ment. The motivation behind such an exercise
might be based in the desire to quantify the value
of the brand beyond dollars and cents. It also
helps to ensure that the vision will continue in
the event of a transfer of power. Many compa
nies reach a point when it becomes more lucra
tive to the designer to make a sale and move on,
rather than remaining in charge.
Records, press clippings, and reference resources
should be collected and stored by a librarian.
Catalogs serve to document a designer's history
of collections and special projects. Archives ben
efit from the curator's perspective regarding the
preservation and storage of heirloom garments
based on their cultural and historical signifi
cance. A brand bible will ensure consistency
and preserve the integrity of the brand. The only
other thing to consider is an heir apparent who
would be able to take the reigns.
Designers who are not yet in a position to be
thinking about this for themselves can begin
to study the legacies of other designers as a
source of guidance.
From Coco to Karl: The
history behind the House
of Chanel is one of the best
examples of a successful long
term legacy of fashion.
178 Fashion Design Essentials
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