Celebrated designer Marnie Skillings has called it quits after 12 successful years in the business.
Skillings advised of her decision in an email sent to select members of the industry.
"I have decided after 12 wonderful years to close my label and concentrate on some other opportunities that have come my way," the email read.
The designer has offered a lease on her namesake boutique at 'The Intersection' in Paddington.
The 35m2 store is situated at 10 Glenmore Road, with an option to include all fixtures as part of the package.
"This gorgeous spot is up for grabs and I think for the right label even in these challenging times this particular position would do wonderfully well," Skillings' email stated.
Speaking exclusively to ragtrader.com.au this morning, Skillings also revealed that she has been considering closing her label for the last couple of years and had come to the decision recently, due to a mix of factors.
“This is not something that is happening all of a sudden, I have considered this option for a while and I will be going ahead ahead now and winding down the label section of my business over the next couple of months,” she said.
“I think we've [fashion retailers] also all felt the impact of the economic downturn in recent times, so yes, that was a factor in my decision, but it wasn't the only reason. During the time running my label I have always done creative consulting and trend sourcing for private clients and at this point I just now find that a stronger point of interest as a creative.”
Going forward, Skillings said she will hold a closing down sale at her boutique at 'The Intersection' in Paddington from July 15, after which, she will move on to concentrate on her fashion consulting business, which will trade under the same name as her eponymous clothing label.
However, she said she would not rule out the possibility of returning to fashion design down the track.
“I live my life as a creative person, so of course, if a collaboration offer comes along or another creative opportunity arises, I would consider it,” she said.
Skillings' closure follows a spate of administrations in the designer fashion sector, including Bettina Liano, Belinda and Little Joe.