Under the visionary direction of Zac Posen, GAP launches Gap Studio Collection 01, launching April 16, 2025 in the UAE.

For over five decades, GAP has been synonymous with effortless American style. Crisp poplin, perfectly worn-in denim, and timeless khaki have formed the backbone of wardrobes around the world. The Gap Studio collection concept takes these familiar staples and elevates them through expert craftsmanship, refined tailoring, and modern proportions by the internationally acclaimed fashion designer who has spent decades in dressing Hollywood A-lister’s in feminine silhouettes and effortless proportions.

In an exclusive interview with Emirates Woman, American designer and creative director of GAP Inc., Zac Posen, discusses the catalyst and design philosophy behind the concept.

Photography: Mario Sorrenti

On sparking the idea behind Gap Studio

“We did a dress for Anne Hathaway. It sold out within hours, if not an hour,” Posen recalls. That moment, an instant fashion sensation, became the spark for something bigger—Gap Studio. “It was this idea of like, what if? Why not? What if, within my role as Creative Director, GAP could create and help build a very small atelier for me in the studio to be able to do innovation and creation? And in the future, invite other creators to come join and build a capsule collection that is elevated, a little bit more style-conscious, but still classic, with all the integrity, quality, and timeless style of the GAP brand.”

With that vision, Gap Studio was born. Designed inside GAP’s New York HQ, Gap Studio is where craftsmanship and accessibility meet. This collection showcases the American brand’s evolving aesthetics while maintaining its essence. The collection aims to be more fashion-forward and style-conscious, appealing to a broad range of consumers and tailored to global markets, including the Middle East.

On craft, challenges and the Gap Studio appeal

Posen’s experience designing for red carpets, film, and couture houses spanning 25 years translates into a level of construction rarely seen in mass-market fashion. Yet, despite its high-fashion DNA, Gap Studio remains rooted in wearability and heritage–it’s the universal appeal is what makes it special. The result? Capsule staples in a modern colour palette of deep black, off-white, khaki, and orange, that feel timeless yet unmistakably modern. “This woman is not trying too hard. She has it. And now she has the different elements, whether she wants to be more elevated in fashion or more understated, chic, and classic,” explains Posen.

In Collection 01, denim takes centre stage. Posen tells us, “Denim is at the heart of GAP, but here, we’ve refined it, sculpted it, and given it a new life with fresh proportions and detailing.” The Denim Trench Coat, Tailored Denim Blazer and matching Denim Sailor Pant and Sailor Skort bring sharp structure to soft, lived-in materials, while the Poplin Maxi Shirtdress returns in new colourways.

Photography: Mario Sorrenti. Styling: Alastair McKimm

Posen prefers to see challenges as creative opportunities, especially when working with GAP’s vast resources in denim. “I don’t like to see them as challenges. I like to see them as opportunities. Working with GAP, having the incredible resources, especially in denim, is incredibly exciting for me.” His signature design techniques can be found in every detail, from knitwear to tailoring. The pick stitch detailing on jackets, the trench coat with unique seaming, and the not-to-miss black tank dress with a corset belt are just a few examples of how Posen’s couture craftsmanship shines through in ready-to-wear form.

On future plans

As Gap Studio takes its first steps, Posen is already looking ahead. The upcoming summer collection will introduce Liquid Denim, a lightweight and breathable fabric perfect for warm climates and particularly suited for Middle Eastern customers. “The Liquid Denim collection includes a long shirt and wide-leg denim pants—designed to be stylish and comfortable in equal measure,” shares Posen. Meanwhile envisioning Gap Studio as a constantly evolving platform, one that fosters collaboration and innovation, welcoming new designers and fresh perspectives.

Gap Studio Collection 01 launches on April 16, 2025 in the UAE.

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Images: Supplied