Zac Posen’s designer created a tapestry of glamour, innovation, and versatility to ode to an individual whose creative legacy is a tapestry of glamour, innovation, and versatility. Over the past two years, Posen’s debut collection in 2021 has charmed A-list celebrities and injected a dash of Euroscuzz into the show’s judging panel. He is a published cookbook author and designed Delta Air Lines uniforms.
There was a pause when his eponymous label shut down in 2019, and he moved to launch his new label in 2020; the industry knew this was not the last we would see him. That prediction proved accurate in February 2024, when Posen took the helm at Gap Inc. as creative director and Old Navy chief creative officer. Posting from Gap’s San Francisco headquarters and now dividing his time between New York and Gap, Posen rebuts the notion of accessible American fashion.
Morning Rituals: From Egg Tarts to FaceTime
There is routine and whimsy to Posen’s Bay Area mornings. He has FaceTime with his fiancé, Harrison Ball, and you walk to work. Their playful exchanges set the tone for the day, even a light debate about whether he is wearing lipstick.
With a little two-ingredient gesture, Posen heads to his neighbourhood bakery for egg tarts before entering the office. “As a leader with Gap, collaboration is everything in life”.
Creative Sparks at Gap
Palpable energy still permeates the office at Gap’s headquarters, where Posen steps in to tackle a day filled with inspiration. He is a whirlwind of meetings, design reviews, and brainstorming sessions with Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy teams.
Posen’s eye for detail is in full force during a visit to the Banana Republic design studio. He imagines carved cameo wood buttons inspired by a pair of pants and maybe with animal silhouettes.
A Star-Studded Night Ahead
When the clock hits five, Posen’s day does not end. That evening, he is set to attend an event with actress Demi Moore, showcasing a Gap look he designed specifically for her: a cut cropped coated denim moto jacket styled with a T-shirt tank gown. Posen’s talent shines through with the ensemble because of her ability to elevate the ordinary into high-fashion statements.
Looking Ahead: Posen’s Vision for Gap Inc
Posen running the helm will be the start of a creative renaissance. However, his ability to incorporate innovation that is approachable to a wide range of audiences makes his brands stick. Posen is reimagining the Gap, from reworking wardrobe staples to forming a culture of collaboration.
Posen describes his creative process in straightforward terms and keys: ‘Making decisions, owning them, and trusting.’ He is not developing American fashion with this philosophy.
Sophia Walker is a fashion journalist who reports on the latest trends, events, and industry news, keeping readers informed about the dynamic world of fashion.
