As we step into 2025, the fashion industry is mourning the loss of one of its distinctive voices. The luxury label Y/Project has announced its immediate closure, bringing an end to a remarkable journey that spanned 14 years. The news, shared on the brand’s official Instagram account, was met with a wave of gratitude and sorrow from both the team and devoted supporters alike. The heartfelt announcement expressed, “It is with great gratitude and sadness that the Y/Project team announces we will be officially closing the brand after 14 incredible years.”

Founded in 2010 by co-founders Gilles Elalouf and the late Yohan Serfaty, Y/Project quickly established itself as a trailblazer in contemporary fashion. The brand’s ascent was significantly accelerated by Glenn Martens, who took over as creative director in 2013. Under his visionary leadership, Y/Project garnered critical acclaim, becoming a finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize for Young Designers in 2016 and attracting a diverse, influential clientele that included celebrities like Dua Lipa, Lady Gaga, Bella Hadid, and Rihanna.

Y/Project’s unique aesthetic, characterized by its experimental silhouettes and innovative designs, resonated with fashion enthusiasts and critics. The brand became known for exciting collaborations with esteemed names such as Jean Paul Gaultier and Melissa, solidifying its status within the fashion elite. However, the company faced significant challenges in 2024, compounded by the departures of both Martens and Chief Executive Pascal Conte-Jodra, as well as the tragic passing of co-founder Elalouf.

In light of these setbacks, Y/Project was placed into receivership by a Parisian commercial court. A bid from AA Investments, a Hong Kong-based asset management firm, reportedly fell through, leaving the label unable to recover from its financial difficulties. As such, the dire decision to cease operations was made, and as of the latest reports, all products have been removed from the brand’s e-commerce site, although some items remain available through third-party retailers.

The closure of Y/Project serves as a stark reminder of the turbulent retail climate that has plagued emerging and independent labels. The past year has witnessed the unfortunate shutdowns of several notable brands, including Interior, Mara Hoffman, and Dion Lee, highlighting the immense pressures faced by even the most well-regarded names in fashion.

In an effort to preserve the legacy of Y/Project, several archival pieces will be donated to esteemed institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Palais Galliera, ensuring that the innovation and spirit of the brand continues to inspire future generations of designers.