Guy Bedarida, longtime head designer of John Hardy and former part owner of the company, has left, as the company transitions from “collection-based fashion jewelry to an iconic luxury brand,” a statement said.
“With the arrival of the fall 2015 collections, which incorporate more gold and stone work, the brand has revisited the original icons of John Hardy and is working from their authenticity to edit, elevate, and modernize,” the statement said. “Once the new creative director is appointed, this person will continue the legacy of bringing John Hardy’s artisan-crafted luxury style to life and contribute to this new direction.”
In the meantime, Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti, founder of catalog company Vivre, will serve as interim creative director. She has served as company creative advisor since October.
Bedarida, who has been with the company for 16 years, wants to concentrate on gemstone jewelry, the statement said, adding his departure was “a mutual decision between himself and the brand.”
Asked if the transiton to luxury is linked to Bedirada’s departure, a brand spokeswoman responds the change has been in progress for a year. She notes the company recently recruited execs from high-end brands like Harry Winston, Chopard, LVMH, and David Yurman.
Private equity firm Catterton bought the company last summer. In 2007, Bedarida was part of a management buyout that purchased the brand from its founder.
Bedarida’s departure was first reported by WWD.
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