Grey/Ven, the renowned purveyor of quiet luxury, has announced the appointment of CFDA-recognized designer Ilana Kugel as the Creative Director for its women’s collection. The news arrives as the brand prepares for its upcoming runway show at New York Fashion Week in February and unveils its first luxury handbag collection, coinciding with Kugel’s inaugural collection for Grey/Ven, titled The Journey FW 25.
Kugel, celebrated for her work with Koral swimwear, made history as the first athleisure designer inducted into the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). She has previously contributed to Grey/Ven’s resort collection, which debuted at September’s New York Fashion Week, as well as a pre-fall collection. Now, she takes centre stage with her first major collection for the brand in the luxury space.
“Ilana Kugel’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Grey/Ven,” said Scott Weissman, CEO. “As Creative Director for our women’s collection, her expertise in contemporary fashion will bring a fresh perspective to our designs. I am also thrilled to have her lead the creative direction of our expanding range of luxury handbags and accessories, further shaping the future of Grey/Ven.”
Kugel’s debut collection, The Journey, is an exploration of original style inspired by the serene beauty of a desert sunset. The collection includes sweaters, dresses, and lightweight layering pieces that reflect effortless sophistication. Earthy hues, monochromatic layers softened by sheer merino wool, and ethereal silk accents define the collection’s refined aesthetic. The luxurious textures and suede-like finishes capture a wanderlust spirit that aligns with Grey/Ven’s philosophy of timeless elegance.
“I am excited to introduce The Journey with Grey/Ven,” said Kugel. “This collection reflects a minimalist aesthetic designed to endure and will resonate for years to come. I am honored to collaborate with a brand so dedicated to the future of design.”
Grey/Ven’s FW 25 collection debuted on February 7 at Casa Cipriani during New York Fashion Week, as announced in the CFDA Fashion Calendar. Alongside The Journey, the brand will introduce its first luxury leather goods collection, designed to complement its ready-to-wear line while exemplifying superior craftsmanship and timeless design.
The Resort collection will be available in stores and online in the coming weeks, while The Journey FW 25 collection and the luxury leather goods line will launch in Fall 2025.
About Ilana Kugel
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Ilana Kugel’s designs are influenced by her Brazilian roots and a lifestyle centered on happiness, health, and wellness. She is recognized as the first athleisure designer to be inducted into the CFDA, playing a pivotal role in advancing aesthetics, design, and fabric technology.
About Grey/Ven
Grey/Ven is a quiet luxury brand dedicated to creating a one-of-a-kind tonal and monochromatic wardrobe for both women and men. The brand’s timeless essentials prioritize elegance, comfort, and modernism, designed to seamlessly transition from day to night and work to play. Grey/Ven’s palette includes sumptuous neutrals and bold seasonal colors, forming capsule collections that offer effortless styling. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical production, Grey/Ven crafts its designs from all-natural fabrics. This summer, the brand will open a new showroom in NYC, alongside its first-ever brick-and-mortar flagship store in East Hampton.
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