L’Oréal has announced a major shift at Mugler, appointing Miguel Castro Freitas as the brand’s new creative director, effective April 1. This decision follows the departure of Casey Cadwallader, who has spent the past seven years reshaping Mugler’s identity with his bold, inclusive, and futuristic vision.
Under Cadwallader’s tenure, Mugler became synonymous with dramatic, body-celebrating silhouettes that fused high fashion with pop culture. His designs, particularly the now-iconic nude illusion catsuit and spiral-cut jeans, became viral sensations, embraced by celebrities and performers alike. His work on custom looks—such as those worn by Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B in the W.A.P. music video—cemented Mugler’s place in the cultural zeitgeist, particularly during the pandemic.
Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B in Mugler
Despite the brand’s rising visibility, L’Oréal, which acquired Mugler from Clarins in 2019, was hesitant to invest heavily in its fashion division. The beauty conglomerate has primarily focused on the label’s fragrance business, with blockbuster scents like Angel and Alien continuing to drive revenue. As the fashion industry shifted towards more refined and understated aesthetics, Mugler adjusted its direction, presenting a sleeker and less overtly theatrical collection last September—Cadwallader’s final show for the house. The brand notably sat out this spring’s Paris Fashion Week.
Cadwallader’s final show – Mugler Fall 2024
Stepping into the role, Miguel Castro Freitas brings a wealth of experience from some of fashion’s most esteemed houses. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, the Portuguese designer began his career under John Galliano at Dior before moving on to key roles at Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, and Dries Van Noten. Most recently, he served as creative director of Sportmax, the Max Mara offshoot known for its sharp tailoring.
“Miguel lives and breathes the Mugler spirit. His deep understanding of Mugler’s DNA and his vast creativity and talent made him a natural choice,” said Danièle Lahana-Aidenbaum, global brand president of Mugler fashion and fragrances.
Reflecting on his new position, Castro Freitas shared, “It is an honor to join the spectacular house of Mugler. As one of the 20th century’s great couturiers, Mr. Mugler reimagined the power and limits of fashion. Alongside the teams, I am thrilled to bring my own vision, story, and emotion to this monumental heritage.”
Founded in 1973 by Thierry Mugler, the house became legendary for its avant-garde designs and groundbreaking runway shows. Mugler was a pioneer of diversity, breaking barriers in fashion long before it became industry standard. Cadwallader carried this legacy forward with an emphasis on inclusivity and empowerment—values that fans hope will continue under Castro Freitas’ leadership.
With this transition, all eyes are on Mugler’s next chapter. Will Castro Freitas uphold the brand’s theatrical roots, or steer it toward a more restrained, couture-inspired future? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: Mugler’s legacy of innovation is in the hands of a designer well-versed in high fashion’s past, and ready to shape its future.
Leave a Reply