Designer Phoebe Philo leaves fashion house Chloe

Phoebe Philo

PARIS - Phoebe Philo has resigned as head designer for fashion house Chloe because she wants to spend more time with her family, the company today.

Philo, who was crowned British designer of the year in 2004, became Chloe's creative director in 2001, taking over from Stella McCartney.

"My decision to resign is for personal reasons, including especially to spend more time with my new baby in the coming months," Philo said in a statement.

"These past years have been an exciting period for all of us, and I wish the company all the best success in the future."

Philo, born in 1973, returned for the summer ready-to-wear show last October after a season's maternity leave following the birth of her daughter in December 2004.

Chloe, which is part of Swiss luxury good maker Richemont, says Philo brought a new sassy edge to the label.

"We thank Phoebe for her contribution of the continuing growth of the company," said Ralph Toledano, chairman of Chloe.

"Our design team has successfully worked independently on previous collections and I totally trust their creative ability to produce the upcoming Chloe collection," he said.

The company did not say who would succeed Philo.

- REUTERS