Crooke Named Prana President

Michael Crooke was named president of Vista, Calif.–based yogawear label Prana Living LLC on Dec. 3.

Crooke, the former president of Hot Topic Inc., left the Goth- and rock-inspired mall-based retailer in July. From 1999 to 2005, he was president and chief executive of leading eco-style company Patagonia, based in Ventura, Calif.

Prana is a label that is on the move. Earlier this year, Prana’s management team and Steelpoint Capital Partners purchased the brand from Liz Claiborne, which acquired the company in 2005.

On Nov. 15, Prana opened a temporary store at the Edge shopping center in El Segundo, Calif., which is more than 18 miles south of downtown Los Angeles.

Prana founders Beaver and Pam Theodosakis will continue to work with the brand, according to a company statement.Pam Theodosakis specifically will continue in her role as head of product design.

“We were looking for a savvy business leader who shares our ideals and ethos,” Beaver Theodosakis said. “Michael is a forward-thinking, progressive leader, and we are excited to work with him to realize the full potential of the Prana brand.” —Andrew Asch