One of New York's most memorable clothing designers is leaving after a glittering but short-lived reign, the New York Times reported Thursday.
Just five years ago Miguel Adrover, who had arrived from Majorca, was hailed as the hope of U.S. fashion as critics fell over themselves praising his wit, elan and craftsmanship.
But things did not take long to fall apart. First, the Pegasus Group conglomerate that had invested in his business in 2000 went bankrupt a year later, leaving him without resources to meet his obligations, and there were problems with sourcing, pricing and shipping.
Second, Adrover unveiled a new collection he called Utopia, inspired by Islam and the Middle East -- two days before Sept. 11, 2001.
By 2003 he had resurrected his business and had continued showing, including what may have been his most mature collection last fall, and installing his designs in a Henri Bendel boutique. But it was not enough.
And so Adrover has decided to leave.
"I feel it's a pity, because we gave a voice to the multicultural city," the designer said last week. He leaves next week, the day after he turns 39.
© Copyright 2004 by United Press International
