Jean Muir to close shop

British fashion house Jean Muir is to close after its spring/summer 2007 collection after more than 40 years in business. Often hailed as the Chanel of England, Muir was described by the New York Times as “one of London’s most influential and modern minimalists.”

Muir began her career in fashion when she was just 15, encouraged by her exceptional talent as an illustrator. She worked as a saleswoman at Liberty and a designer for Jaeger before starting the Jane & Jane label in 1961. Influentially, she designed Diana Rigg ‘s wardrobe for the 1965 series of ABC TV’s The Avengers , including her famous PVC catsuit for the episode, A Surfeit of H20. She left Jane & Jane in 1966 and set up Jean Muir Ltd in October of that year. Her husband Harry Leukert was also her business partner.

A pioneer of minimalism, Muir became renowned for her slinky dresses in black and navy silk jersey. Celebrity clients included Lauren Bacaal, Julie Walters, Charlotte Rampling and her muse and one-time model Joanna Lumley. The London boutique on Conduit Street will close at the end of the season.