Tom Ott to Relaunch Robert Talbott Label

Tom Ott has already found a new gig — relaunching the venerable Robert Talbott label. Ott left Saks Fifth Avenue at the end of August after 24 years, serving most recently as chief merchant of the Off 5th division. He had also been the head of men’s wear for Saks for many years and was instrumental in the creation of the Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Collection private label. It’s that skill he’ll draw upon for Robert Talbott as a special adviser for strategic opportunities, he said. In an exclusive interview, Ott said the Robert Talbott brand was quietly purchased by Relevant Brands Holdings last year and went dormant after shipping the spring collection. “They’re taking a breather,” he said. It will be relaunched for holiday 2020 although a capsule targeted to resort communities may be offered for next fall. “There’s a big white space in my book,” Ott said. “It’s a really good collection and not tarnished. It’s a diamond in the rough.”  Ott said Robert Talbott can “go head to head” with a brand like Peter Millar, but with more color and a “relaxed California lifestyle” aesthetic. The plan is to mine the brand’s archives for inspiration and translate that to luxe knitwear and

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