Patrick Robinson on the runway, Fall 2007 Paris (file photo)
Patrick Robinson on the runway, Fall 2007 Paris (file photo)

PARIS, May 25, 2007/ FW/ — While the U.S. gets ready for the Memorial Day weekend, it is business as usual on the other side of the Atlantic with announcements of new appointments in fashion houses.

At the legendary fashion house Madeleine Vionnet, which is seeking a revival of its venerable name, French designer Marc Audibet had been named Artistic Advisor after Sophia Kokosalaki resigned from her post as Creative Director to concentrate on her label, which is now under the Diesel umbrella.

A veteran of prominent fashion houses as Ferragamo, Trussardi, Hermes and Prada, Marc Audibet became well known in the 1970s with his work on Lycra stretch fabrics. He is expected to unveil his first collections for Vionnet in July during the Paris haute couture season in a presentation.

As already had been announced here early this month, Belgian designer Bruno Pieters had been named as Art Director for Hugo, the second line of Hugo Boss while Eyan Allen was named Creative Director.

One of the most exciting design talents to come out of Antwerp this decade, Bruno Pieters’ eponymous menswear and womenswear labels new collections are unveiled in Paris. He is expected to continue designing his own line while doing outside consulting work for Hugo.

A veteran of Ellesse UK, Nike, Puma and adidas, Eyan Allen as Creative Director is expected to bring a sportive element to Hugo.

And now, back to the U.S. Patrick Robinson, formerly of Giorgio Armani, Anne Klein, Perry Ellis and Paco Rabanne had been named Executive Vice President of Design for Gap Adult, the San Francisco-based company announced last Wednesday.

This appointment follows Robinson’s successful stint with Target GO International Initiative where he designed a limited-edition collection. He will start his new position on May 29.

[SARA CONDE]