Sykes, formerly creative director at Aquascutum, will join Nicole Farhi from 1 September. She will introduce her vision for the brand with her first collection, for Autumn Winter 2013.

The brand’s founder described Sykes as ‘the perfect appointment for the company.’

‘Nicole Farhi has always been about timeless style and effortless elegance,’ Farhi said in a statement. ‘Jo understands these qualities and brings a fantastic eye for detail, as well as a great understanding of cut, proportion and fabrication.’

Before heading to Aquascutum, Sykes designed the Freda at Matches range and her own Sykes label for more than three years. Previously, she worked with Giorgio Armani and Alberta Ferretti.

‘I am extremely excited at the prospect of joining Nicole Farhi,’ Sykes said. ‘It is an iconic, British brand with fantastic heritage and enormous potential. I can’t wait to get started.’