After 26 years, Donald Pliner announced Tuesday that he is leaving his current position as creative director of the Donald J Pliner Company in order to pursue new creative pursuits, which may involve designing, consulting and public speaking.
“It is with bittersweet emotions that I announce that I have decided to leave the company I founded,” Pliner said in a statement. “I am proud of having built a high quality and innovative luxury footwear brand and wish to thank my loyal customers and followers. I will continue to be a shareholder and will be fully supportive of the company and the brand as I begin this next chapter of my life.”
Pliner’s wife, Lisa, who launched her own luxury shoe line known as Lisa F. Pliner, in 2005, followed by a signature collection Lisa for Donald J Pliner, will also be leaving the company.
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Known for melding fashion with comfort, Pliner established the company in 1989 as a forward-thinking luxury footwear brand with an emphasis on innovative materials and craftsmanship. It grew into a company with five company-owned retail locations across the U.S. and is currently sold in 400 specialty stores and upscale department stores.
In 2011, Pliner sold a majority interest in his company to Castanea Partners, a private equity fund, to grow his brand and the business in more areas and at various levels.