In a statement provided by the company, Saunders minced words in terms of hinting at any explanation for his departure, instead reflecting on his tenure at the label. “I am grateful for Diane’s support and for the opportunity of guiding this iconic brand," he wrote in an official press release. "I am so proud of everything we have accomplished in the past 18 months. I thank the incredible team for their dedication and support, and will continue to be a friend and admirer of the brand." Saunders, whose passion for colors and patterns convinced many he was the perfect person for the job, is considered to have turned the label around.