Designer Salehe Bembury has announced he’s leaving his role at Versace as vice president of sneakers and men’s footwear at Versace. The New York-born Bembury joined Versace in 2017 and was widely viewed as leveling up the label’s reputations for sneaker offerings. Reflecting his talent, this year he was named designer of the year by Footwear News.
Salehe has confirmed he won’t renew his contract with the label after it expires at the end of the year. The 33-year-old creative has let it be known he will launch his own brand in 2021 while continuing his collaborative efforts, which include efforts with New Balance and ANTA.
In a press release, Bembury stated, “Donatella [Versace] offered me a life changing opportunity, and Versace offered me a platform. Often, individuals that look like me are not put in the same position. This significant detail was not taken for granted and ultimately I hope that my role is used as a vehicle for progress. I am forever grateful for what was bestowed upon me and extremely proud of what we were able to achieve.”
As of yet, Bembury hasn’t provided any details on the launch of his new brand.
