Rachel Scott Appointed as New Creative Director of Proenza Schouler

Rachel Scott. Courtesy of Proenza Schouler

On September 2, New York’s renowned luxury brand Proenza Schouler announced the appointment of Jamaican-born designer Rachel Scott, founder of Diotima, as its new creative director. She succeeds founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, whose departure was announced earlier this year in January.

Scott, who launched Diotima in 2021, quickly gained industry-wide recognition. She won the CFDA’s American Emerging Designer of the Year award in 2023 and American Womenswear Designer of the Year in 2024, followed by the Fashion Trust U.S. Ready-to-Wear Award in 2025. Known for her use of crochet techniques, relaxed silhouettes, and vibrant patterns, Scott’s collections have brought a fresh perspective to the New York fashion scene.

As creative director, Scott will oversee all categories of Proenza Schouler, including ready-to-wear, accessories, and the White Label line. While her official debut is slated for the Fall/Winter 2026 collection, she has already been involved as a consultant on the upcoming Spring/Summer 2026 collection, where her influence is partially reflected.

Proenza Schouler CEO Shira Suveyke Snyder said in a statement: “As one of the most celebrated design talents of today, Rachel brings a fresh and female perspective to a brand built on the spirit of the modern American woman. Her profound understanding of Proenza Schouler’s brand codes, paired with her exceptional ability to marry craft with innovation, made her the natural choice to lead the house forward.”

Scott herself also shared her thoughts: “It is with great excitement that I join Proenza Schouler, a brand at the heart of American Fashion, and one I have long admired. I hold deep respect for the beauty and world Jack and Lazaro so brilliantly crafted, and I look forward to bringing my perspective in dialogue with their legacy. I am grateful to Shira for her trust and I am honoured to step into this role to envision the next chapter of Proenza Schouler.”

Meanwhile, founders McCollough and Hernandez were appointed as creative directors of Loewe in March, embarking on a new chapter in their careers. They continue to serve on the board of Proenza Schouler and supported the search for their successor.

Scott’s appointment marks an important moment in an industry where leadership roles at major luxury houses are still predominantly held by men. As Proenza Schouler has long embodied the image of the modern New York woman, all eyes are now on how Scott will reinterpret that legacy and shape the brand’s future.