Rachel Scott, the visionary behind New York–based label Diotima, has been appointed creative director of Proenza Schouler, succeeding founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. The duo departed earlier this year for Loewe, following Jonathan Anderson’s move to Dior.
“I have long admired Proenza Schouler as a house that defines the modern American woman,” Scott shared in a statement. “It is an honour to step into this role, to build upon Jack and Lazaro’s extraordinary legacy, and to shape the next chapter with my own perspective.”
At 41, Scott brings a formidable résumé. A graduate of Istituto Marangoni, she cut her teeth at Costume National in Milan before serving as VP of design at Rachel Comey. In 2021, she launched Diotima—a label rooted in craft, with Jamaican-made crochet dresses and crystal mesh separates that blur the line between resort and demi-couture. The brand quickly became a critical and industry darling, earning back-to-back CFDA Fashion Awards, Fashion Trust US recognition, and finalist spots at both the LVMH Prize and Woolmark Prize.
Her appointment signals a bold shift. Known for her craft-driven, community-focused approach, Scott offers an expansive vision of luxury—one that balances artisanal tradition with modern sensuality.
“Rachel brings a fresh and distinctly female perspective to a brand long associated with the spirit of the American woman,” said Proenza Schouler CEO Shira Suveyke Snyder. “Her instinct for marrying technique with innovation made her the clear choice.”
Founded in 2002, Proenza Schouler has long been a bellwether of New York style—from its Parsons thesis-turned-Barneys buyout to the cult status of its PS1 bag. While the brand weathered business missteps in the 2010s, McCollough and Hernandez’s departure earlier this year left it well-positioned for renewal.
For Scott, that renewal begins immediately. She has quietly worked with the house’s studio this year to develop the spring/summer 2026 collection, which will be unveiled at New York Fashion Week as a preview of her vision. Her first full runway as creative director will come in February with autumn/winter 2026.
Next week, she will join a season of debuts across Europe’s storied maisons. But as the only woman of colour to lead a major luxury house this season, Scott’s appointment marks more than a new beginning for Proenza Schouler—it is a milestone for fashion itself.
