Christopher Kane is making his return to the runways. The Scottish designer has just been named the new creative director of Mulberry, with the mission of revitalizing the ready-to-wear line of the historic British brand. The collaboration, according to a press release, represents the next step in the “Back to the Mulberry Spirit” strategy, rooted in the brand’s connection to British craftsmanship and culture. The first Mulberry by Christopher Kane collection will debut in September 2026 and will be available in stores and online starting in January of the following year.
A new chapter for ready-to-wear
“Welcoming Christopher marks an important moment for Mulberry as we open a new chapter for our ready-to-wear line,” said Andrea Baldo, CEO of Mulberry. “Christopher brings with him a rare combination of creativity, intellectual rigor, and a playful instinct, as well as a deep respect for craftsmanship and materials. His vision resonates strongly with Mulberry’s heritage and the spirit of British creativity that defines the house. Together, we are thrilled to evolve Mulberry’s creative language beyond accessories and shape an exciting future for ready-to-wear on a global scale.”
“It’s an honor to join Mulberry, a brand with such a rich British heritage and a deep commitment to craftsmanship. I look forward to working closely with Andrea and the team to create a new chapter in ready-to-wear that celebrates the spirit of Mulberry,” Kane said.
Christopher Kane's distinguished career
A graduate of Central Saint Martins and winner of the Vogue Fashion Fund as well as four British Fashion Awards, including the Womenswear Designer of the Year award, the designer closed his eponymous brand in 2023. In the past, he also collaborated with Donatella Versace, who had entrusted him with the creative direction of the Versus line. In his collections, he explored themes such as science, space, and human anatomy, consistently embodying an ideal of exclusive elegance. In 2013, Kering acquired a 51% stake in Christopher Kane, only to sell its shares back to the designer in 2018. That same year, the designer launched his second line, More Joy.
Mulberry's Strategic Reorientation
Mulberry, famous for its bags and accessories, terminated its clothing and footwear licensing agreement with Onward Luxury Group in 2020, during the pandemic, as part of a cost-cutting program aimed at maintaining its focus on its core business. The last ready-to-wear collection, designed by former creative director Johnny Coca, dates back to fall 2020. The brand’s bags start at around 500 euros and have an average price of about 1,200 euros, with very few models exceeding 2,000 euros. The brand also offers men’s styles, belts, small leather goods, and textile accessories.
Financial Performance and Business Outlook
Mulberry reported a 5.3% year-over-year increase in total sales for the third quarter ended December 27, 2025. Comparable retail and digital sales rose 11%, with full-price retail sales up 19% during the holiday season. The UK market grew by 3.5%, with retail sales up 6.5%. The United States posted sales growth of 12.7%, Europe (excluding the UK) achieved growth of 14.9%, and Asia-Pacific recorded +0.8%.
In the first half of 2025–26, the group’s revenue decreased by 4% to £53.9 million (€62.2 million), with a 36% increase in the wholesale segment. Overall, retail and digital sales fell by 2% but rose by 4% in key markets (the UK, Europe, and the US). The gross margin increased to 69% from 67%, maintaining a full-price offering across both physical and digital channels. Gross profit remained unchanged at £37.3 million, while the operating loss improved by 63%, falling from £13.1 million last year to a more contained loss of £4.9 million. Pre-tax losses were reduced by 56%, coming in at £6.9 million for the latest period.
Capital pressures and buyout offers
Mulberry is owned by Challice, a company controlled by Singaporean entrepreneur Christina Ong and her husband, Ong Beng Seng. The company has rejected more than one acquisition offer from Frasers Group, a minority shareholder. This morning, the brand’s stock was down 2.5%.