MILAN, Nov 16, 2004/ FW/ --- The word on the street here in Milan is that Jil Sander resigned once again from the fashion house that bears her name. But, there is no official announcement from Prada, the consortium that owns the brand.

The Daily, the official publication of 7th on Sixth reported that a spokesperson from the House of Jil Sander had confirmed the resignation, and that an official statement will be released at a future date.

There is so much déjà vu in here. Way back in 2002, Jil Sander left her eponymous fashion house due to a disagreement with Patrizio Bertelli. In May 2003, she returned, to serve as head of Jil Sander AG and as a member of the Strategic Committee of PRADA Holding N.V.

If Jil Sander has truly resigned, then it is a sad day in the fashion world. Her Spring 2005 collection presented last September in Milan is groundbreaking, innovative and creative.

Under Jil Sander’s masterful hands ruffles were not frilly or soft. It became a statement. Oh, yes, it’s still romantic and feminine, but the German-born designer turned it into a badge of honor.

Breaking new grounds, Jil Sander turned traditional ruche and pleats into an armor-like embellishment. Yellow on white, the outfit was like a family crest. And literally, it can give you tingles in your spine when you see it.

Never shy to get her hands on accessories, Sander also sent a bevy of hats, handbags, totes, platform shoes and mules on the runway. If you can only get ONE accessory from Jil Sander in spring, choose the hexagonal shoulder bag. It will surely fly off the shelves!

And as always, Jil Sander coats are top of the line, beginning with the 4 button double-breasted trench to the 8-button above-the-knee mackintosh.

With a collection as good looking as it is, please say that it ain’t so, that this is NOT Jil Sander’s last collection for her own house. But I guess, we have to wait and see, i.e., an official statement comes from Prada or Jil Sander.

Jil Sander

Jil Sander

Jil Sander

Jil Sander