Narciso Rodriguez joins Banana Republic

The US-based designer will work with Banana’s Creative Director and Vice President Simon Knee to heighten the fashion credibility of the brand’s offerings in coming seasons.

Rodriguez, best known for dressing the likes of Michelle Obama, Jessica Alba and Sarah Jessica Parker in his streamlined, colour-blocked dresses, will join the retailer from 20 August, WWD reported. The first collection reflecting his input will launch into stores for autumn 2013.

‘At Banana Republic, we are committed to delivering modern, stylish workwear to our customers,’ Banana Republic President Jack Calhoun said. ‘Narciso’s expertise will be a great complement to Simon’s strengths and to our incredible design team.’

Appointing Rodriguez is the latest step in a strategy that has seen Banana launch successful capsule collections with Trina Turk and Mad Men’s Janie Bryant. This autumn, the retailer will introduce a collection based on the designs in the forthcoming film adaptation of Anna Karenina, starring Keira Knightley.

Rodriguez has yet to comment on his new role.