Nealz Named President of Juicy Couture
LeAnn Nealz, executive vice president and chief design officer of teen mall retailer American Eagle Outfitters, has joined Juicy Couture as president and chief creative officer. Juicy, a division of Liz Claiborne Inc., saw the departure of co-founders Pamela Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor earlier this year. In April, the company announced that designer Erin Fetherston, who designs her own eponymous collection of girlish designer fashion, would temporarily head design at Los Angeles–based Juicy. Fetherston will design the brand’s 2011 collections.
Nealz assumes responsibility for design for Juicy Couture and its sister brand, Bird by Juicy Couture. Her appointment also marks a shift in Juicy’s executive team. Edgar Huber was hired by the company in 2008 as president and later added chief executive officer to his title. With the addition of Nealz to the executive ranks, Huber has relinquished the title of president.—Erin Barajas
