Ivanka Trump Shutters Fashion Company to Focus on Political Work: 'I Do Not Know When or If I Will Ever Return'

"When we first started this brand, no one could have predicted the success that we would achieve," Trump said in a statement received by The New York Post. "After 17 months in Washington, I do not know when or if I will ever return to the business, but I do know that my focus for the foreseeable future will be the work I am doing here in Washington, so making this decision now is the only fair outcome for my team and partners."

She went on to say, "I am beyond grateful for the work of our incredible team who has inspired so many women; each other and myself included. While we will not continue our mission together, I know that each of them will thrive in their next chapter."

Shortly after accepting a senior advisor position in her father's administration, Trump stepped down from her active leadership position in the company. Since then, the company which bears her name has had to tread carefully to avoid violating ethics laws and creating the perception that Trump is benefiting financially from her political career.

Controversy over the potential conflict of interest began to emerge when Trump first joined her father on the campaign trail wearing clothing from her own branded line. It only got worse when she didn't immediately resign her position with the company after accepting a position in the White House.

The situation grew more tenuous after Nordstrom's dropped her line and Trump took to Twitter to defend his daughter from being "treated so unfairly." Then, White House spokesperson Kellyanne Conway said on "Fox & Friends" that people should "go buy Ivanka's stuff." That comment sparked pushback from both sides of the political spectrum.

Since then, Trump and the White House have been quiet about the clothing line, which has been subsequently dropped by other major retailers including Neiman Marcus and DSW. An insider told the NY Post the line has struggled since Trump stepped down.

"I know that this was a very difficult decision for Ivanka and I am very grateful for the opportunity to have led such a talented and committed team," said the company's president Abigail Klem. "When faced with the most unique circumstances, the team displayed strength and optimism."