Harvey Nichols appoints Vogue and former Topshop fashion lead as Creative Director

Luxury fashion and beauty retailer Harvey Nichols has today announced the appointment of Kate Phelan to the newly created role of Creative Director, with immediate effect.

Phelan, one of Britain's most esteemed stylists, is described as "a pivotal figure in the modern British fashion scene".

Her illustrious career is marked by significant roles at British Vogue - as Fashion Director from 1993 to 2012, then as Senior Contributing Fashion Editor to present day, and Topshop as Creative Director from 2011 to 2017, which "cemented her influence in shaping a globally recognised British aesthetic".

Phelan created some of the most memorable fashion images for British Vogue over 30 years, working with many influential photographers and creatives. She will continue her freelance editorial and commercial styling collaborations alongside her new role.

As part of her new role, she will be responsible for Harvey Nichols’ brand campaigns, as well as elevating the visual identity of the brand and its creative propositions. Phelan will report directly to Harvey Nichols CEO, Julia Goddard.

Goddard said: "We are delighted to welcome Kate as our new Creative Director. Kate’s esteemed career in the fashion industry has been captivating, and her expertise will strengthen the leadership team at Harvey Nichols.

"Her renowned experience will be instrumental in driving Harvey Nichols forward to establish itself as the go to brand for well curated luxury fashion, delivering quality growth and successfully celebrating our brand’s unique DNA. I am very excited to see her creativity and vision come to life."

Phelan added: "I am thrilled to be joining Harvey Nichols as Creative Director. This is an exciting time in retail with many new opportunities to use the channels we have available to tell stories.

"Harvey Nichols has a wonderful history, and I very much look forward to working alongside Julia and the Harvey Nichols team in delivering a new energy and vision for the brand."

Phelan actually began her career at British Vogue in 1984, where she worked as fashion assistant for three years before moving on to become Senior Fashion Editor at Marie Claire.