Kolb announced his resignation in a post to his Substack on Friday, Sept. 18
Credit: Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty
NEED TO KNOW
- Steven Kolb announced his resignation after 20 years with the CFDA, citing a desire for a new chapter
- His resignation follows an incident at NYFW where he was seen physically restraining a PETA protestor and pushing another protestor on the runway
- Kolb apologized for his actions and expressed pride in his contributions to American fashion during his tenure
Steven Kolb has resigned as president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).
Kolb announced his resignation in a Friday, Sept. 18 post on his Substack, Steven Says. His announcement came after the organization placed him on leave on Monday, Sept. 14. The CFDA’s decision followed an incident with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) protesters at New York Fashion Week on Sunday, Sept. 13, in which Kolb pushed a male protester away from the runway and was seen restraining a female activist, who was shouting “get wool off the runway.”
Kolb wrote in his resignation letter that the “difficult decision” came after leading the company for 20 years. “I am enormously proud of what we have built together and believe this is the right moment for both me and the organization to begin a new chapter.”
Credit: Michael Loccisano/Getty
He continued by remarking on how the organization “strengthened the organization financially, expanded its programs and partnerships, increased our philanthropic and scholarship initiatives, supported generations of emerging designers, advanced sustainability and circularity, created opportunities for creatives from underrepresented communities, supported and elevated New York Fashion Week, and broadened the CFDA’s national and global reach.”
“What I am most proud of is the impact we have had on American designers—supporting creativity and helping businesses grow,” he wrote, before thanking CFDA members, designers, board members, staff, partners and supporters.
He also thanked his four co-chairs, Stan Herman, Diane von Furstenberg, Tom Ford and Thom Browne, “for their leadership, partnership and friendship.”
“Leaving after twenty years is deeply emotional, but I do so proud of what we accomplished together and confident in the CFDA’s future,” he wrote, concluding, “It has been one of the great privileges of my life to serve this community.”
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
After his announcement, the CFDA posted a statement to Instagram acknowledging Kolb’s departure: “Steven Kolb has been a dedicated leader and tireless champion of American fashion throughout his more than two decades at the CFDA, including fifteen years as CEO.”
“We respect Steven’s decision to step down and are grateful for his many years of leadership and service to the CFDA and our industry,” the statement continued. “He leaves the organization well positioned, with a clear mission and dedicated team, to carry out the important work ahead as we look to the future of American fashion.”
Credit: Taylor Hill/Getty
The NYFW incident involving Kolb occurred at the COS show, held at WSA in New York City. During the show, the PETA protesters made their way onto the runway and held signs accusing the brand of cruelty toward sheep while models were walking.
Kolb is seen pushing a male protester, identified as Mason Melito by The New York Times, in videos shared by Fashionista. The video also shows Kolb restraining a female activist, who was shouting “get wool off the runway.” He appeared to pin her on the floor with his legs while covering her mouth with his hands. Security guards escorted Melito out of the fashion show moments later.
Kolb also addressed the incident on his Instagram Stories on Monday, Sept. 14. He wrote, “On Sunday at the COS show, two PETA protestors entered the venue, and I inappropriately restrained them. My actions were wrong, and I am deeply sorry. I take full responsibility for my actions. I apologize to them and everyone who witnessed the incident.”
“There is no justification for physically restraining another person,” he continued, adding that he has agreed to meet with PETA to hear their concerns.
Read the full article here
