Phillip Lim departs creative director role at 3.1 Phillip Lim

American designer Phillip Lim is leaving his role of creative director at 3.1 Phillip Lim, the fashion brand he co-founded in 2005 with business partner Wen Zhou, who will remain CEO and become sole owner.

Lim is leaving to “pursue new ventures,” according to the duo, which failed to provide details of his successor.

Lim’s last collection for the brand was his spring 2025 show during September New York Fashion Week, marking the New York brand’s 20-year anniversary,

“It is with great respect and gratitude for each other and our long partnership that we have decided to part ways at 3.1 Phillip Lim,” Lim and Zhou, in a joint statement.

“As the brand moves into a new chapter, we are so proud of what we have built and the strength of genuine community around us. Our shared vision and hard work has allowed us to stay independent and achieve remarkable success in a constantly changing and challenging industry. 

“From the very beginning, our goal was to create something meaningful, and along the way, we realized we could also inspire positive change, champion creativity, responsibility, and collaboration. We are incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made for the past 20 years and for that we will be eternally thankful. This moment marks a natural turning point for both of us, each with new goals and different visions for the future. Wen will stay on as CEO and sole proprietor of 3.1 Phillip Lim, while Phillip will pursue new ventures. Though our partnership is ending, the brand remains in capable hands and we are certain will continue to thrive.”

Lim and Zhou founded 3.1 Phillip Lim 20 years ago as an aspirational luxury brand for women, steeped in contemporary and elegant design. The brand has been a regular on the New York Fashion Week calendar, and has been seen on celebrities including Katie Holmes, Alanis Morissette, Kyrie Irving, Nia Long, Tanner Adell, Daniel Dae Kim, and Rajon Rondo.