Orla Kiely, the pretty print-driven label worn by the likes of the Duchess of Cambridge, Alexa Chung, and Keira Knightley, is no more. The British-based label, which the designer set up 23 years ago, has closed its stores and website and is entering voluntary administration. The move comes shortly after the Fashion and Textile Museum's exhibition "A Life in Pattern" paid tribute to the designer, and will no doubt come as a shock to fans of the label's famous graphic prints, oilcloth handbags, and pretty clothing.
A spokesman told the Guardian that the "home and design licencing business will not be affected, and its selection of accessories and homewares will continue to be sold through its distribution partners." This means we haven't seen the last of those stem prints and curvy flowers, though it probably is the last time a member of the Middleton family steps out in one of the label's designs.
It's a sad loss for the UK fashion industry, but hopefully the designer will find a way to continue working on new projects in the future. In the meantime, take a look back at some of the many moments when high profile stars stepped out wearing (or carry) Orla Kiely designs.