Is Banana Republic about to get a bit of what J.Crew’s having?

The answer’s yes according to its latest hire.

Marissa Webb, who spent a decade at the helm of J.Crew before leaving to set up her own-name label in 2011, was yesterday named as BR creative director. The US brand, which is owned by Gap Inc., bought a percentage of her label into the deal.

Given her background – which also includes a stint at Club Monaco – Webb is a strong hire for brand, which brought its signature grown-up preppy look to the UK in 2008.

While her plans are yet to be disclosed, it’s safe to say we won’t be waving goodbye to Banana’s designer collaborations anytime soon. Just hours before the news of the hire broke, it was announced that Roland Mouret will release a 25-piece collection under the Banana Republic label this August.