So Long, Fern-well! Mallis Breaks With IMG Amid Massive Fashion Week Changes

Did you just feel the axis of the earth shift a little? It might have been because the long-standing official face and global ambassador of IMG’s New York Fashion Week, Fern Mallis, announced she would be stepping down from her lofty position this week. IMG says they won’t be naming a successor any time soon (really, who could replace her?) while Mallis will launch her own consulting firm, Fern Mallis LLC., The separation seems more than amicable and, timed with Fashion Week’s move from Bryant Park to Lincoln Center this September, fairly well timed. Moreover, according to WWD , IMG has already signed up as the first client of Mallis’ new consulting firm.

As for Fashion Week, the CFDA rolled out another update on its move to Lincoln Center this morning with IMG touting their ability to, “reinvent and improve so many aspects,” of the shows and, “develop a stronger link to the surrounding facilities and spaces available at Lincoln Center and the neighborhood.” However, Peter Levy, SVP and Managing Director of IMG Fashion Worldwide, describes the move as the beginning of “a long run,” not a permanent relocation. Hmmm. Interesting.

Mercedes-Benz also announced they will renew for the next three years as title sponsor of New York Fashion Week and give their full support and confidence for the move to Lincoln Center.

So, what should show hoppers and front-row residents expect at the new location? While the dates will remain the same, a larger “gracious” lobby for tent-dwellers, expanded resources for lighting and digital design for shows, and a fourth presentation space for all entertainment activities that don’t require a runway are in the offing. Additionally, a more “designer centric” version of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week website will launch to coincide with the debut of the new location, providing for a more engaged digital experience for media, designers, and guests attending the shows. Seems that the woman more responsible for New York Fashion Week than anyone else, Mallis, has not only left the event’s organizers with a rich history to manage, but has scattered a few parting gifts to the show-going community on her way out the door. Enjoy the extra time off, girl!