The Italian-Libyan, Canadian-raised designer helped launch the brand under the Canadian sportswear Ports International umbrella back in 2004 (she has been with Ports International since 1990).
The high-end contemporary brand has become a go-to for classic dresses and separates with a twist, and under Cibani’s leadership it’s become a celebrity, socialite, and editor favorite.
Tia’s sister, Fiona Cibani, has long worked with the International segment of the business and she will now also take over the creative director post for Ports 1961 (Ports is exponentially more well-known in Asia than it is in the United States).
Established in 1961, the Ports International brand was purchased by Fiona Cibani’s husband, Alfred Chan, in the early Nineties. Ports International has some 300 stores and the line, still Asia-focused, is completely different from the North America-focused 1961 line.
Since its inception, Ports 1961 has had an international vibe, and the collections have almost always been inspired by Tia’s travels.
Given Fiona’s long history with the brand and her international lifestyle, I’m excited to see what’s to come from the brand. I have a feeling that the older Cibani will only help Ports 1961 in its continued growth for the better.
