The Garment Bag

Fall 2011 Behind the Scenes

2011-09-23T16:39:00.001-04:00

See Edward's vision behind the Fall 2011 Collection played out in our Fall 2011 lookbook and video.

Robert Verdi's Favorite Fall Looks

2011-09-20T17:16:00.001-04:00

We asked Celebrity Stylist & Tastemaker Robert Verdi to choose his favorite looks from our Fall 2011 Collection. Tell us which looks you love most on Facebook!

Chic on the Street - Punto Milano Leather Patch Skinny Pant

2011-09-16T17:34:00.004-04:00

Nicole Kelly from Alice Blue boutique in Chattanooga, Tenn. stopped by our showroom today sporting our Punto Milano Leather Patch Skinny Pant! Her favorite thing about this pant? The leather patch adds interest so you can wear it day and night. She said she likes to dress it up with dressy boots on a night out. How would you wear the Leather Patch Skinny Pant?

Celebrate the Opening of Our New Shop @Saks with Robert Verdi!

2011-09-13T14:43:00.002-04:00

Shop Opening at Saks Fifth Avenue NYC

2011-09-09T16:41:00.003-04:00

We're excited to announce that our first ever shop is finally open at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City! Shop and lounge at our brand new home on WEAR on Four.

"Like" us on Facebook to see more photos of the shop and photos from Saks's WEAR Now launch party with a special guest performance by Ellie Goulding!

Our Biggest End of Summer Sale Ever!

2011-09-06T15:17:00.002-04:00

Only two more days to save during our biggest end of summer sale ever.

Fashion's Night Out 2011

2011-09-02T11:00:00.001-04:00

Please join our designer, Edward Wilkerson, and his entourage Thursday, Sept. 8 as he makes his rounds at the following New York City retailers for Fashion's Night Out 2011!

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Lord & Taylor, 424 Fifth Ave. (btwn 38th and 39th streets)

7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Ave. (btwn 49th and 50th streets)

8:30 p.m. onwards Bloomingdale’s, 1000 3rd Ave. (btwn 59th and 60th streets)

Delight in Details

2011-08-30T16:01:00.001-04:00

Pocket Shawl
Shown in Black, Pumpkin and Siren. Also available in Aubergine (not shown).

Our fall accessories are here - the perfect finishing touch to complete any look. This season, delight in the bright new colors and opulent textures of our snoods, capelets and shawls (some reversible, some with pockets!), and cashmere scarves, mufflers and gloves.

Warmth Insurance

2011-08-26T15:58:00.001-04:00


Merchant Canvas Cape (bottom left); InStyle/Sept. 2011 Available October 2011 at lafayette148ny.com.

Long, cropped, reversible, belted or tied with a sash, we've got you covered with our jackets and coats this fall. Our favorite trend? The cape. It's sleek, chic and best of all, fun. Can you spot the Lafayette 148 New York cape InStyle named one of its most-loved in its September issue?

Animal Attraction

2011-08-23T16:48:00.000-04:00

Marled Leopard Print Dress

Spots and stripes captivate feline charm for fall. From dresses to coats to scarves and vests, we're wild that animal prints are everywhere this season.

Weekend Wear

2011-08-19T17:09:00.001-04:00

Shop Weekend Wear

Happy Friday! We've added a touch of laid-back luxury to our collection for fall this year. Our brand new Weekend Wear shop is filled with cozy knits and sweaters, and casual outwear and basics. What are you adding to your weekend wardrobe?

Incredible Intarsia

2011-08-16T15:24:00.002-04:00

Our Intarsia Cozy Flannel Fringed Coat was specially crafted with a modernized Intarsia knitting machine. A novel approach to this time honored technique results in a multi-colored jacquard pattern that is unsurpassed in quality and sophistication. Not to mention its exceptionally beautiful appearance. The second best feature of this statement-making garment? The draped collar can be worn as a hood!

Infinite Options

2011-08-12T15:39:00.001-04:00

We're in love with this sweater. Our Feather Wool Jersey Infinity Cardigan can be worn so many ways, time and time again. Its double layer cascading collar awaits your styling. See more ways to wear our Infinity Cardigan on lafayette148ny.com.

Travel Must-Packs

2011-08-09T17:42:00.002-04:00

Stephanie, Lafayette 148 New York Designer Edward Wilkerson's assistant,
helping Edward pack his bags for traveling cross-country.

Packing up the Fall 2011 collection.

Edward is making his first personal appearance of the season this weekend and we're busy with preparations for the event. Check out some of Edward's travel must-packs that he thinks should be on every jet-setter's list.

Fall Personal Appearances

2011-08-05T15:32:00.001-04:00

Edward and the Lafayette 148 New York team are gearing up for a season of traveling across the country to personally show you our Fall collection and help you select the styles best for you. Find out if we'll be heading to a city near you on lafayette148ny.com!

First Look at Fall

2011-08-02T12:33:00.004-04:00

We gave our website, lafayette148ny.com, a makeover for fall! Discover what's new and watch our latest collection come to life in our Fall 2011 video.

Website Redesign

2011-07-29T16:51:00.003-04:00

Changes to our website are in the works. Check back next week to see what's new at lafayette148ny.com!

On the Road: McAllen, Texas

2011-07-26T15:46:00.001-04:00

Our Fall 2011 collection is on the road to stores across the country. At Joe Brand in McAllen, TX, we asked store associates Carmen (top) and Ruby to model their favorite looks. Carmen's snood and Ruby's shawl (it has pockets!) are two of our favorite brand new accessories this season. With two simple steps they updated their basic staples, such as a pencil skirt or a black pant, to a whole new level of chic with wear-with-all accessories.

Transcend the Seasons

2011-07-22T16:16:00.002-04:00


Silk Taffeta Tessa Blouse (shown in Lavender) Crown Suiting Barrow Pant (shown in Granite Multi)

Transition from the summer heat to fall’s peak with our most-wanted styles that have just arrived – including two new styles for Fall that we’re already infatuated with – the Tessa Blouse and Barrow Pant.

Look into Luxury

2011-07-19T14:30:00.000-04:00

Follow Lafayette 148 New York on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get an inside look into luxury. We'll keep you up to date on what goes on behind the scenes of our latest collection, our showroom and more!

October 2011 Catalog

2011-07-15T15:00:00.040-04:00

We've been busy this week with a photoshoot for our October catalog. Get a sneak peek at some Fall looks and see how many people it takes to make a model's hair look perfect for our cover shot!

We love the iPad, too! Check out our iPad app!

Keep in touch with us on Facebook and we'll let you know when these styles will be available!

Looking Forward to Fall

2011-07-12T15:44:00.001-04:00

We're at the photoshoot for our October catalog and can't stop lusting after our Fall accessories. Keep up with us on Facebook or sign up for emails to find out when our latest collection launches!

Just Another Day at the Office

2011-07-08T16:28:00.002-04:00

We'll be spending the next few days capturing more of our Fall 2011 collection for our October catalog. We'll post more behind the scenes next week! If you haven't already signed up to receive catalogs, head over to lafayette148ny.com.

Summer's Best Pant

2011-07-05T16:38:00.001-04:00


Lavish Linen Ludlow Pant (shown in White) Cotton Voile Kylie Jacket (shown in Black)

High waist. Pleats. Bright white. Three of the most wanted summer trends in one pant. Where would you wear summer's best pant?

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-01T12:23:00.000-04:00

Have a chic, luxurious and very happy holiday weekend!

Holiday Weekend Wear

2011-06-28T10:48:00.002-04:00

Summer Linen Solange Top

It's almost July 4th and for many of us that means packing for a weekend of sand, surf and sun. Summer weekend style is all about laid back chic. A favorite essential for a Saturday by the shore? A linen tunic. It's airy, light-weight and perfect for brunch, the beach and fireworks after the barbeque!

Getting Ready for Fall

2011-06-24T17:31:00.002-04:00

It may be the beginning of summer, but we’re already busy getting ready to introduce you to Fall 2011. Our color inspiration for the upcoming collection? Berries, deep reds and shades of blues.

Fall 2011 fabric swatches.

Summer Essentials

2011-06-21T15:18:00.008-04:00

Whites, linen and a feminine, flirty dress are all on the top of our list for summer essentials. With the 4th of July just weeks away, we’re already planning our outfits for outdoor barbeques and summer soirees. On our packing list? A Lafayette 148 New York Precious Leopard Sabra Dress, our Lustrous Linen Pocket Cardigan and Shell and a Metropolitan Stretch Cropped Bleecker Pant – perfect for an Independence Day barbeque.


Precious Leopard Sabra Dress


Lustrous Linen Pocket Cardigan & Shell (shown in Peony) Metropolitan Stretch Cropped Bleecker Pant (shown in White)

Cotton Crepe Check Plisse

2011-06-17T16:25:00.005-04:00

Cotton Crepe Check Plisse Vest and Shell (shown in Magnolia)

Is your weekend wardrobe slacking for summer? We like to go out and about on the weekends looking effortlessly chic. Your perfect layering set for summer brunch, shopping excursions and weekend getaways is our Cotton Crepe Check Plisse Vest and Shell (shown in Magnolia). Pure Italian cotton that's soft, comfortable and ideal for weekend casual.

Summer Colors

2011-06-14T10:29:00.005-04:00

Our June collection has just arrived and with it comes a new assortment of colors. Soft and pretty spring shades like Belle Pink and Pale Amethyst are now complemented by swatches of Cayman Blue, Eggplant and Freesia that transcend from summer to fall. Shop our latest catalog to see what else is new and tell us what you love most on Facebook!

Lafayette 148 New York Stretch Cotton Clarissa Top (shown in Eggplant)

A selection of Lafayette 148 New York Italian Stretch Cotton shirts
are also now available in Cayman Blue and Freesia.

Wrap Yourself in Luxury

2011-06-10T12:37:00.004-04:00

O Magazine, July 2011

In July's issue of O Magazine, our Stretch Cotton Alicia Top is featured as a key item to show off and adapt to any figure. Choose a luxurious wrap blouse, like our Stretch Cotton Alicia Top and pair it with leggings or skinny jeans to maintain proportions and stay on trend. Don't forget to show off your waist with our Whipstitch Obi Belt!

CFDA 'American Fashion Travel'

2011-06-07T12:59:00.006-04:00

Your copy of American Fashion Travel by CFDA is available for order at Assouline Luxury Books.

Lafayette 148 New York designer, Edward Wilkerson, is always on the go. Last night he was schmoozing with fellow Council of Fashion Designers of America members at the CFDA Fashion Awards, this week he's working on the final touches of our Pre-Spring 2012 collection, and next week he'll be in Dallas, Texas. Though we keep Edward very busy here in New York City, one of his greatest passions is to travel the world and gain inspiration from the people he meets and the culture he experiences. Edward was happy to share his passion for travel with the CFDA in their latest book, American Fashion Travel. Check out what Edward shared with the CFDA (above) and learn how to get your own copy of American Fashion Travel.

Stretch Cotton Center Pleat Dress

2011-06-03T16:41:00.003-04:00

Two Lafayette 148 New York employees showed up to work wearing our Stretch Cotton Center Pleat Dress (Autumn in Fatigue and Sophie in Black) paired with the Leather Obi Belt! It's the perfect dress to take you from the desk to dinner.

Creme de la Crop

2011-05-31T15:34:00.002-04:00

The sights of summer are finally emerging. Light and ladylike dresses, crisp whites and sandals to show off your pedicure are now officially acceptable to bring out of hibernation. We're celebrating the longer days in cropped pants - an essential closet keeper that can translate your look from 1950s girly to nautical to casual chic. Try on one of our favorite outfits! Our Lush Crossdye Linen Calico Blouse (shown in Birch Multi) paired with our cropped Metropolitan Stretch Baxter Pant (shown in Espresso).


Lush Crossdye Linen Calico Blouse (shown in Birch Multi) Metropolitan Stretch Baxter Pant (shown in Espresso)

Behind the Scenes: August Catalog Photoshoot

2011-05-27T14:34:00.002-04:00

The Lafayette 148 New York showroom has been busy this week - we're shooting the August 2011 catalog! Get a behind the scenes look at what's been going on during the photoshoot and let us know what you think on Facebook (p.s. there's a sneak peak at our Fall collection!).

Gold Accessories

2011-05-24T15:30:00.002-04:00

Summer is almost here and it's your time to shine under the sun. Get your summertime glow with gold accessories that give the beachy look that extra sparkle. We spotted these gorgeous gold Lafayette 148 New York necklaces on the set of one of our latest photoshoots. Tell us what accessories you love for summer on Facebook!

(From left) Beaded Knot Necklace,
Single Strand Resin Necklace,
Triple Strand Gold Resin Necklace (no longer available).

Customer Spotlight: Karen from New Jersey

2011-05-20T15:24:00.002-04:00

We love online shopping just as much as you do. That's why we want to make your shopping experience as carefree as possible with our Personal Shopper service (new for Spring!). Our personal shoppers can assist you over the phone or online and help answer any questions you may have while shopping. After speaking with one of our personal shoppers, Lafayette 148 New York customer, Karen from New Jersey, told us that the "telephone help with exact measurements of merchandise made my purchase a breeze! Stephanye even helped me plan my accessories for the outfits!" Read more about Karen and why she loves online shopping below!

What's your favorite Lafayette 148 New York item?
Any matte silk is my favorite - it is too hard to select just one!

What do you like most about shopping online at Lafayette148.com?
Excellent accurate photos of merchandise. I know what I am buying! Consistency in the sizing of your clothing means everything I select online will fit when it arrives! Oh and one more thing, I love that my cart is saved online. I shop within my means so I can go back and make purchases as my paycheck permits!

How would you describe yourself as a shopper?
Savvy shopper always hunting for a Lafayette 148 sale, but willing to pay full price for quality and on-trend, but classy, pieces.

Is there anything else you'd like us to know about you?
I'm a professional woman in her fabulous fifties determined to better this world for others. I'm interested in promoting arts in the healthcare settings, and emotional and physical wellness in children. Now that my two kids are grown, I'm destined to travel the world with a suitcase full of Lafayette 148 clothes and my husband of 30 plus years while we are still healthy!

Have you shopped with our personal shopper? Tell us about your experience on Facebook.

The White Shirt

2011-05-17T17:00:00.004-04:00

A timeless investment, the classic white blouse is an instant style staple. Our collection of Italian Stretch Cotton white shirts is a signature favorite at Lafayette 148 New York (one of our own is wearing the Stretch Cotton Clarissa Top in white today!). They're an addictive, absolute wardrobe essential that you can wear everywhere, everyday.

Stretch Cotton French Cuff Blouse [shown in White]

Tell us what you love about white shirts on Facebook.

Fall 2011 Trunk Show at Binns of Williamsburg

2011-05-13T12:56:00.003-04:00

Our Fall 2011 Collection is traveling cross-country the next few months to specialty stores near you. This week, among several other cities in the U.S., we're in Williamsburg, VA at Binns of Williamsburg. Check out some photos from our presentation at Binns and get a sneak peak of what's to come for Fall!

Like what you see? Tell us about it on Facebook > facebook.com/Lafayette148

Brights

2011-05-10T17:21:00.001-04:00

Color is in - whether you wear bright pink lipstick, electric blue shoes or a fabulous sprout green tunic, the season's knock-out hues will brighten your day. Still too shy to go bold? Check out Harper's Bazaar's suggestions on how to wear color. Take a sunny fashion outlook this season and see how Lafayette 148 New York can provide you with color therapy.

Tell us what you think of brights for Spring on Facebook > facebook.com/Lafayette148

Customer Spotlight: Rhea I.

2011-05-06T15:50:00.002-04:00

We spend a lot of time trying to make the most of our wardrobe. Clothes that translate from day to night with no fuss are the easiest to work with. That’s why one of our loyal customers and Facebook fans, Rhea I., loves wearing our Stretch Cotton Center Pleat Dress in Fatigue. She told us it’s one of her favorite Lafayette 148 New York purchases. We like Rhea’s shopping mantra and wanted to learn a little more about her style (hint: she has a passion for florals).

What do you covet most on lafayette148.com?

I’m coveting the floral print dresses – perfect for Spring and Summer – and the slim leg pants. I also really love the Fantasia Floral Joanie Top and Fantasia Floral Skirt.

How would you describe yourself as a shopper?

I like to purchase items that I can wear for work but can also easily wear from day to evening. The things I really love about Lafayette 148 New York are the unique prints and fabrics – and the fact that I can wear many of the items for work and tweak them just a bit for play as well.

What else can you tell us about yourself?

I get compliments on your knits and many of your skirts!

We love our fans! Find us on Facebook and tell us what you’re coveting this season!

Perfect Gifts for Mom

2011-05-03T16:00:00.005-04:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner - Sunday, May 8! Send Mom some love with the perfect gift from the Lafayette 148 New York accessories collection. Chic and sophisticated, our accessories will polish off any look. Shop for Mom now!

Linen Scarf (shown in Cloud)

Necklace with Detachable Feather Pin

Double Strand Wood Beaded Necklace (shown in Espresso)

Pearl and Felt Flower Necklace

Tell us how you show Mom you care on Facebook!

Women's Wear Daily, April 2011

2011-04-26T16:22:00.001-04:00

Get a glimpse of Fall 2011! A skirt and jacket from our Fall '11 collection were featured in today's Women's Wear Daily. Let us know what you think on Facebook.

Clair, Fabric Sourcing Supervisor (Shanghai, China)

2011-04-22T09:37:00.003-04:00

Each season, the Lafayette 148 New York collection journeys from initial concept to finished garment in cities across the globe – from New York City to Italy to our production headquarters in Shantou, China. Over the past few weeks, staff from our offices in China have visited the corporate and design headquarters in New York City. This week, we welcomed Clair – our Fabric Sourcing Supervisor from Shanghai. From wovens and knits to trims and accessories, Clair oversees the research and development, buying, production and quality control of our fabrics that come from Italian mills and top design houses throughout the world. On her very first trip to New York City, Clair has seen a different side of product development and even had time to experience the sights (and personalities) of New York.

What are your daily responsibilities as a Fabric Sourcing Supervisor?
I work with my counterparts in New York on development, approval, protection (quality control), production and cost of fabrics and colors. I spend a lot of time following up on orders, assuring our fabrics are of the best quality.

What have you been up to in New York?
I communicate with staff from our New York office daily, but I've never met them. This week, I've been matching faces with all those names! Also, I've participated in meetings and was able to observe the process from development to production and learn more about how we decide certain fabric orders – sometimes we can be strict about colors or fabrics and now I know why! I've also gotten to see who our customer is and even our finished product in stores! I've loved being able to touch our clothes on the hanger!

Have you done any sight-seeing?

I went to Saint Patrick's Cathedral. It was amazing! I've never seen churches so large! I also went to Rockefeller Center, FAO Schwarz, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Lincoln Center, Central Park and walked along Broadway.

What's one of the biggest differences between New York and Shanghai?

Everyone here seems so relaxed. People in New York are so nice! Everyone says, "Excuse me!"

Clair (left) and Meredith, another member of the fabric research and development team,
reviewing swatches in the New York office.

Lafayette 148 New York Fabric Department
(From left) Rose, Caroline, Clair, Johanna and Meredith

Spring Dresses

2011-04-19T09:12:00.001-04:00

Always ladylike and chic, dresses remain the ultimate go-to item for instant feminine style. Lafayette 148 New York designer, Edward Wilkerson, says: "I love the word dress because it says it all. It's head-to-toe - one dress and you're dressed." Get dressed this Spring in sleek, clean and fresh silhouettes. Tell us what your favorite dresses are on Facebook.

Sleek Tech Cloth Side Ruffle Dress

Petite Pique Cotton Rosette Dress in Sprout

Loire Floral Ruched Bodice Dress

Editorial Mixing

2011-04-14T17:41:00.005-04:00

If there's one vision that resonates throughout the designs of our Spring collection, it's exotic, feminine flair mixed with edgy, urban styles. Edward's recent travels to Barcelona inspired the editorial mixes for our Spring collection that break the rules. We want to see you mix hard and soft fabrics and add flirty trims. We love crinkled textures all mixed together. Don't match your skirt and jacket. Take a chance this season with unexpected, modern looks.

Edward's Dirty Little Secret:
Mixing textures adds dimension.
Marrakech Cloth Kennedy Jacket
Twilight Jersey Tank
Jute Weave High Waist Slim Skirt
Leather OBI Belt in Espresso

Maritime Cloth Connor Jacket
Novelty Cotton Sabrina Blouse
Bi-Stretch Denim Zip Leg Jean

Carousel Cloth Miriam Jacket
Matte Silk Tenley Top
Casual Cotton Short

Tell us how you break the rules with your wardrobe on Facebook!

Customer Spotlight: Sue from New York

2011-04-08T17:32:00.002-04:00

When traveling across the country to present the newest Lafayette 148 New York collections, designer Edward Wilkerson meets the women who provide inspiration for his visions. This sense of style translates into wearable, age appropriate fashion for all women. So when Sue, a busy, recently retired corporate event planner and grandmother of four, from Westchester County, New York, told us how she loves Edward's "feminine and flattering" jacket designs, we wanted to learn more about her personal style and why Edward's designs have helped her become devoted to Lafayette 148 New York.

What is your favorite Lafayette 148 New York purchase?
"A black jacket I bought last year (our Ruffle Collar Zip-Front Jacket) [with a] zipper-edged collar which falls like a waterfall in soft folds. [It's the] most unusual of all the Lafayette jackets I own, and I own many! Usually [I wear it] with your black wool menswear pant, black shell top underneath, and an antique jet-bead family necklace which is beautifully set off by that fabulous collar. I've gotten lots of compliments on that outfit!"

What do you covet most on lafayette148.com?
"[I] have bought several of your jackets for Spring/Summer, but am thinking about the Ink Berry Print Tunic."
See which jackets she purchased below!

How would you describe yourself as a shopper?
"Organized, deliberate - [I try] everything on three or four times to make certain it fits - yet quick to make decisions [when] things catch my eye."

What else can you tell us about yourself?
"My husband and I are members of a nearby country club and I find Lafayette jackets and pants or dress outfits to be just the thing for our evenings out at the club or at a restaurant or friend's house. Lafayette 148 makes me the best looking me I can be!"

Three of Sue's Lafayette 148 New York jackets she purchased for Spring!

Loire Floral Luella Jacket

Nuanced Shantung Lanette Jacket in Rosette

Premiere Faille Ikat Rafael Jacket

To see what other customers are saying, head over to lafayette148.com and then let us know how you feel on Facebook!

Bohemian Charm

2011-04-05T11:37:00.003-04:00

Everyone is smitten by reinvented classics this spring - 80s bold color, 90s minimalism and one of Edward's must-haves this season, 70s bohemian charm. Elle magazine calls it "fashion's refined new moment," explaining that flowy and feminine separates exude a versatility that works for both day and night. We love the retro redefined styles for spring and believe the true essence of boho chic is the easy-going, feminine layering pieces such as peasant blouses and tunics. See how we style our favorite boho charm outfits and let us know what you think on Facebook.

Emily Smith, of the Lafayette 148 design team, says
to wear our Lush Crossdye Linen Adalia Blouse
as a staple piece. "It's a loose, versatile, easy-going top.
Pair it with espadrilles or add a different,
hard belt to make it interesting."

Incorporate the neutrals trend this spring by wearing our Cotton Crepe Check Plisse Vest and Shell in Grey Melange with our Summer Linen Wide Leg Short in White.

Our loose and airy Renaissance Print Daphne Top can be
"paired perfectly with skinny bottoms" - such as our
Garment Washed Yarn Dyed 5 Pocket Skinny Jean in white
- cropped shorts or a sporty skirt, Emily suggests.

Betsy R., Sales

2011-04-01T17:14:00.004-04:00

It's the first day of April and yet here at our headquarters in New York City April showers turned into snow. It's one of those days when you feel like Mother Nature is playing a joke on you. Fitting, seeing as it's April Fool's Day. But Lafayette 148 New York junior account executive, Betsy R., doesn't mess with Mother Nature. Wearing our Continental Taffeta Ethan Jacket over the Matte Silk Kerrigan Blouse in Cloud and our Linen Scarf in Nu Blue, she looks chic and still geared for whatever weather might come her way. While a Lafayette 148 white shirt is always a classic go-to, Betsy says she loves wearing our Continental Taffeta Ethan Jacket.

"This is my perfect Spring coat. It's light weight and for rain or shine. It can be outerwear also worn as innerwear - right on trend. It's really cute, don't you think?"

Continental Taffeta Ethan Jacket
Matte Silk Kerrigan Blouse
Linen Scarf

Tell us what's in your closet on Facebook!

New Neutrals

2011-03-29T16:26:00.002-04:00

We're shifting into spring with feminine, calming neutrals. This season it's all about the new, unexpected and cool neutrals – khaki, stone and powder. By layering different neutral tones head to toe, your look this spring will be easy and effortless. Check out our favorite "new neutral" outfits and tell us what you like most about wearing neutrals on Facebook!

Carousel Cloth Miriam Jacket
Matte Silk Tenley Top
Metropolitan Stretch Bermuda

Edward's Dirty Little Secret: When layering white and off-whites,
be diverse with fabric textures to create dimension.
Continental Taffeta Ethan Jacket
Striate Jersey Boatneck Top
Garment Washed Yarn Dyed Denim 5 Pocket Jean

Metropolitan Stretch Zip Dress

Stretch Cotton Jaycee Blouse

2011-03-25T16:30:00.002-04:00

Have you seen the April issue of InStyle yet? Our Stretch Cotton Jaycee Blouse makes a grand appearance in a feature about how to wear classic white button-downs. Still wondering how to wear it best? We've got a few tips for you.

1. Pair it with black leggings or skinny jeans.
This simple white tunic's silhouette is relaxed, so keep the bottom of your outfit skinny. Dress it up with skinny jeans, a Whipstitch Obi Belt and platforms, or dress it down with leggings and a flirty necklace.

Stretch Cotton Jaycee Blouse

2. Layer it with a cropped jacket.
Add some edge and mix up your look with a touch of leather. Our Floral Perforated Lambskin Corwin Jacket is perfectly cropped with subtle detailing to keep your outfit proportionally chic. Leather too daring? Try a cropped denim jacket instead. Our Bi-Stretch Denim Band Collar Jacket is a must-have.

Floral Perforated Lambskin Corwin Jacket

Bi-Stretch Denim Band Collar Jacket

3. Take it on vacation.

Our Allure Cloth Carlisle Jacket and Continental Taffeta Taylor Jacket are long enough to match the length of the tunic for a proportionally sound look and add a hint of shimmer to maintain the casual elegance of spring and summer vacations.

Allure Cloth Carlisle Jacket

Continental Taffeta Taylor Jacket

See our Stretch Cotton Jaycee Blouse featured in April's InStyle on Lafayette 148's Facebook page, or purchase your own copy of InStyle today!

Back to Black

2011-03-22T17:08:00.003-04:00

We were so excited when the runways for spring were all about looking crisp, minimal and sophisticated. So this week, we're obsessing over one of our favorite trends this season that illustrates the sleek, modern feel of the runways: back to black. It's all about using the black pieces in your wardrobe to create classic, versatile looks and bring out the other beautiful colors featured this spring. Take a look at our favorite "back to black" outfits and tell us what you like most about wearing black on Facebook.

Honeycomb Cloth Kendall Jacket
Luxe Charmeuse Lace Top
Metropolitan Stretch Bermuda
(Also looks great with our Cotton Sateen Menswear Pant)

Viscose Crepe Cowl Neck Dress
Crinkle Voile and Mesh Rose Pin

Floral Perforated Lambskin Corwin Jacket
Luxe Charmeuse Virginia Top
Metropolitan Stretch Bermuda
(Also looks great with our Garment Washed Yarn Dyed Denim 5 Pocket Jean)

Customer Spotlight: Loveta from Texas

2011-03-18T11:52:00.001-04:00

Investing in clothing that can live through multiple seasons is difficult, but it's something we all strive to do. That's exactly what Lafayette 148 New York shopper, Loveta from Fort Worth, TX, did when she purchased one of our beautifully crafted leather jackets three years ago. She says it's her favorite Lafayette 148 item she owns. We like the way Loveta shops, so we asked her more about her shopping habits.

How would you describe yourself as a shopper?

Cautious! But with a huge appreciation for something really nice that works over and over.

What is your favorite Lafayette 148 purchase?
An espresso leather jacket that I purchased about three years ago, but the pants that are made out of 96 percent virgin wool and 4 percent elastin are a really quality product.

What are you coveting most on www.lafayette148.com?
The Batik Print Dress with the Bubble Hem (our Enchanted Batik Bubble Hem Dress) might be neat for hot Texas days. I would wear it under some kind of wrap. It has a tropical look.

Thanks for investing in our product, Loveta, and we hope you keep coming back to Lafayette 148. To see what other customers are saying, head over to lafayette148.com and then let us know how you feel on Facebook!

Timeless Essentials

2011-03-15T12:25:00.001-04:00

Spring is in the air! Step into this season with a fabulous wardrobe filled with timeless essentials. Our latest essentials collection is based on quality, craftsmanship and versatility. Lafayette 148's three basic pants - menswear, bedford and varick - can be paired with any silk or cotton shirt to make the perfect fit for any time of day. Or you can redefine your 9 to 5 in our stretch wool suiting. To see more spring essentials, shop our latest catalog and let us know what you like on Facebook.

(Left) Stretch Wool Celia Jacket and Waverly Pant
(Center) Stretch Wool Vienna Jacket and Inverted Pleat Skirt
(Right) Stretch Wool Kinsley Jacket and Slim Leg Astor Pant

Spring '11 at Neiman Marcus-Houston Galleria

2011-03-11T13:59:00.004-05:00

On March 9, Edward and some of the Lafayette 148 New York team flew down to Houston to personally show off our Spring 2011 Collection at Neiman Marcus. The presentation was so fun and the response was great! Many thanks to Neiman Marcus and The Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce. Here are some highlights from our event.

Suzan Deison, president of the Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce, with Edward!

Find more photos on Facebook and see where Edward's making his next personal appearance on lafayette148.com.

Coordinate Carefully

2011-03-08T11:31:00.002-05:00

Wearing all one color used to be only allowed when wearing suits. But this spring, being monochromatic is the trend to try. Spice up your look this spring and try something new by coordinating different shades of the same hue into your outfit. Mixing different shades of one color adds depth and sophistication to your look. You can also go even bolder by wearing a patterned top with bottoms in the same color scheme. Some color schemes to try this March? Greens, blues and as always, black.

(From Top Left:) Causeway Stripe Tie Front Blouse and Stretch Wool Menswear Pant;
Calligraphy Paisley Beaded Tunic and Metropolitan Stretch Cargo Pant;
Italian Silk V-Neck and Ventura Weave Slim Skirt
(From Bottom Left:) Silk Chiffon Sequin Jacket and Garment Washed Yarn Dyed Denim 5 Pocket Skinny Jean;
Printed Petal Yarn Shirred Front Cardigan and Stretch Wool Menswear Pant;
Naive Floral Ashby Jacket and Metropolitan Stretch Bleecker Pant

Join the conversation and let us know which outfits are your favorite on Facebook!

Bohemian Chic

2011-03-01T12:27:00.001-05:00

Bohemian glamour is making a comeback this spring and we're already stocking up on platform sandals, wide-leg trousers and draping tunics. One of the tunics we're all lusting after this spring is our Nouveau Gauze Hand-Beaded Leni Tunic. With its gorgeous hand-beaded embellished neckline and asymmetrical hem, the tunic helps you pull off an adorable casual chic look with an allure of vintage. To avoid overdoing it, pull off a relaxed, airy tunic like the Leni Tunic, by pairing it with slim bottoms, such as skinny jeans, cropped pants or shorts. We want to know how you would style our Leni Tunic, so find us on Facebook and join the conversation!

Nouveau Gauze Hand-Beaded Leni Tunic

Enchanted Batik Bubble Hem Dress

2011-02-25T11:25:00.001-05:00

If there's one thing we can't wait for this season, it's the relaxed chic look. Wearing drapes, loose and airy styles are comfortable and elegant all in one. Our friends over at O Magazine agree. In their March issue, O's creative director, Adam Glassman, helps readers recreate the seasons best trends, including 70s revival and relaxed clothing. Glassman includes one of our newest and favorite dresses in the photoshoot: the Enchanted Batik Bubble Hem Dress. A printed, dress like this can take you straight from work to date night. And best of all, it has pockets – an essential to every outfit all year round.

Enchanted Batik Bubble Hem Dress

We gave you the idea for a spring staple piece, we want to hear your ideas for accessorizing it. Tell us on Facebook! To see our dress featured in O Magazine, click here.

Lengthen Your Legs

2011-02-22T12:49:00.001-05:00

Everyone wants sexy long legs. Even the lucky ones already strutting their tall, lean genes like to lengthen their limbs even more with high heels. But when you're of average height or on the shorter side, lengthening your legs can be a bit of a challenge. So we asked Emily and Francesco of our design team how to do it right. They advised two basic rules:

1. Shorter women should steer clear of heels too high. Not only are they painful and awkward, but too high of a heel can give more credit to your lack of height. Kitten heels and flats with cropped pants can actually make you look taller and save your ankles from twisting too.

2. An empire waist will always lengthen your look. This fit gives the illusion of height by drawing the eye upward, rather than to worrisome parts of your body.

Following these rules, you can create a long, lean look for spring with one of our favorite outfits from the Lafayette 148 New York new arrivals: our empire waist Breezeway Stripe Hand-Beaded Lily Tunic paired with our Summer Linen Wide Leg Shorts and flirty kitten heels or fun flats.

What do you wear to lengthen your legs? Let us know on Facebook!

Artisan Ikat Liam Jacket

2011-02-18T13:03:00.004-05:00

Graphic prints are quickly blossoming as one of the hottest new trends this spring and we're already on board. As featured in the March issue of Lucky magazine, when paired with a bold top, our Artisan Ikat Liam Jacket adds a tribal allure. Here's how to get the look:

1.) Artisan Ikat Liam Jacket
2.) Static Jersey Pintuck Tee in Cerise
3.) Stretch CDC Varick Pant in Cloud (also available in Parchment)

What do you think of this look? Join the conversation and let us know on Facebook! And to find our editorial feature in Lucky, click here!

One Blouse, Three Ways

2011-02-15T12:38:00.001-05:00

Elegance, femininity and versatility: the three ingredients to a perfect blouse. Which is why we're so excited for our newest arrivals of the season, specifically our Taffeta Clarissa Top - a regal take on one of our most classic blouses. When paired with the right separates, the Taffeta Clarissa Top can transfer into a look for work, day and night. In her most recent book, Nina Garcia's Lookbook: What to Wear for Every Occasion, Garcia writes that women can create a stand out look by "artfully weav(ing) her individuality into an otherwise safe ensemble." The Taffeta Clarissa Top can help you do just that, and last you three different outfits in one week.

Taffeta Clarissa Top paired with Garment Washed Yarn Dyed Denim Back Zip Slim Skirt

Taffeta Clarissa Top paired with Optic Herringbone Kendal Jacket and Optic Herringbone Varick Pant

Taffeta Clarissa Top paired with Viscose Crepe Ludlow Pant

Join the conversation and let us know what you think on Facebook!

Customer Spotlight: Mary from Michigan

2011-02-11T12:48:00.002-05:00

We talk a lot about how to make the most of your wardrobe on The Garment Bag and if there's anyone who knows how to do it best, it's Lafayette 148 fan Mary. Mary says she enjoys "choosing contemporary but 'classic' pieces that will work in many situations and over the course of time be mixed and matched with updates." Mary, a practicing attorney from Ann Arbor, Mich., has a wardrobe that requires separates she can mix and match for work and play. Fortunately, Lafayette 148 is known for our mix and match-able looks! "I love the essential suiting pieces in stretch wool in particular for work," she says. "I can put together a suit easily and wear the pants for almost every event both in and out of the office combined with a blouse or a sweater (or) top." One of the things that keeps Mary coming back to Lafayette 148 is the design and construction of our clothes. "I know anything I buy from Lafayette 148 is well made, well designed, well thought out, and will carry me through any day and evening event with good taste and aplomb," she says. "I get lots of compliments on the way I dress – from both men and women – and I attribute that in large part to the Lafayette 148 clothes I've chosen."

We're happy to have you representing Lafayette 148 New York in the stylish and most confident way possible, Mary!

Mary says she's now coveting our Organic Stone Faille Print Piola Jacket on Lafayette148.com. Let us know what you're coveting most on Facebook and if you feel like sharing how your most recent experience with Lafayette 148 New York went either in store or online, join the discussion.

Winter Weather Layers Without Looking Bulky

2011-02-08T12:15:00.001-05:00

Punxsutawny Phil may have not seen his shadow last week, but the chill in the air will still last another couple weeks (hopefully not months). The key to dressing for the change of the seasons is layers. But to avoid looking bulky and bigger just because you're layered up, follow these essential tips from Emily and Francesco of the Lafayette 148 design team.

Cinch your chunky sweaters and coats with a belt.
Belts are key. They can accentuate your waistline in an instant, no matter how many layers you're wrapped in. Francesco and Emily suggest tying a skinny belt, like our Obi Belt with Tassels, around your waist to remind people you're still sexy underneath all those knits. Stylish blogger, Cristina of My Fashion Juice, shows off exactly how to give the illusion of a gorgeous hourglass shape by wearing a belt over a winter coat.
Feeling bold? Try a white skinny belt to brighten up your look.

Create your curve and accentuate
your waistline with our Obi Belt with Tassels.

It's all about proportions.
Dressing in all cozy, warm clothes can be hard to resist in cold weather, but if you're trying to avoid bulk in your look, stick to one chunky item. Emily and Francesco suggest pairing a chunky knit sweater with skinny pants.

Stay warm, stand tall.
When it comes to choosing a jacket, choose a coat longer in length. Our design team suggests coats like a trench or our Duchess Ribbon Weave Addie Jacket, will keep you warm and elongate your bottom half. Harper's Bazaar also posted a few fabulous examples of tailored, long and warm jackets that will do the trick in their list of winter essentials.

Be glistening and gorgeous for the cold weather
in our Duchess Ribbon Weave Addie Jacket.

For more suggestions of how to look stylish and warm for the rest of winter, take a peek at Elle Magazine's video tutorial.

Looking Forward to February

2011-02-04T13:56:00.001-05:00

There's a lot to look forward to this month! While our spring collection is out traveling with our trunk shows, here in New York we're already preparing for fall! Everyone's busy preparing for market in the next few weeks where we preview the Lafayette 148 Fall 2011 collection to editors and department store buyers. Here's a lucky photo I got of our showroom of the calm before the storm.

In a few weeks, this room won't look so lonely.
(P.S. That's part of our spring collection in the background.)

Go Nude This Spring

2011-02-01T11:58:00.002-05:00

Everybody's doing it. Well, they're not actually going nude, but one of the major color trends this spring is nude tones: white, cream, ivory and a little gray. Vogue is raving how neutral colors create soft, feminine looks. Marie Claire says that earth tones such as khaki and taupe are great understatements that allow for embellishments and textures. The other thing we love about wearing neutrals, is that they can complement nearly any outfit. Become Gorgeous suggests to compliment the shade of neutral with your skin tone (grays and browns for fair skin, beige and creams for dark skin tones) or to simply add a bright color to make your outfit pop. Lafayette 148 is definitely ready for this spring trend. Let us know what you think of our nude tone outfit suggestions on Facebook!

1. Metropolitan Stretch Reversible Carmen Jacket and Bleecker Pant
2. Novelty Stretch Cotton Trim Detail Talon Blouse and Metropolitan Stretch Lola Skirt
3. Fluid Linen Blend Kennan Jacket and Garment Washed Yarn-Dyed Denim 5 Pocket Skinny Jean

Behind the Scenes: April Catalog Photoshoot

2011-01-28T13:00:00.001-05:00

Snow may be on the ground, but spring is in the air! Our fabulous models donned part of our Spring 2011 collection during the photoshoot for our April catalog this week. Check out some behind the scene photos and let us know what you think on Facebook! www.facebook.com/lafayette148

One of our models, Yaya, and PR assistant, Tara in the makeup room safe from the snow.

Building the set.

Some of our fabulous marketing, e-commerce and photoshoot team.

Graphic Prints

2011-01-25T11:57:00.001-05:00

It's all over the fashion magazines such as Lucky and Elle. It's taken over Spring 2011 couture like Christian Dior, Miu Miu and Louis Vuitton. One of spring's hottest trends has also hit Lafayette 148 New York. Graphic prints have infiltrated our pre-Spring 2011 collection and is just waiting to invade your closets. Try pairing our Organic Stone Faille Print Piola Jacket with our Cotton Sateen Bleeker Pant (the cropped pair for a younger look, or the long pair for an elegant look). Or simply emphasize the value of a print by pairing our Organic Stone Jersey Ruched Dress or our Billowing Scroll Print Gored Skirt with a neutral cardigan or nude heels. Francesco and Emily of our design team say you should be adventurous with patterns, but don't go overboard when making your statement. Stay in the same color family when making your outfit and be sure that the other pieces remain neutral.

From top left: Billowing Scroll Print Gored Skirt, Organic Stone Jersey Ruched Dress,
Organic Stone Faille Print Piola Jacket, Calligraphy Paisley Tunic

Customer Spotlight: Lisa from Seattle

2011-01-21T12:57:00.002-05:00

Some women shop to find an outfit for an event. Some women shop because their clothes are out of style. Other women shop because, well, retail therapy! But when you're shopping to accommodate a lifestyle change such as weight loss, the experience changes dramatically.

When Seattle native, Lisa, recently started shopping for clothes that could fit her brand new, leaner look (she dropped five sizes in two years!) she discovered Lafayette 148 New York. Lisa says she often visits Nordstrom to "play dress up" in our clothes and has her eyes on pieces she's drooling over, such as the Soiree Silk Daniela Tunic. With a goal of fitting into our Missy sizes by the time our Spring 2011 trunk show comes to Papillion Boutique in Bellevue, WA., Lisa looks forward to a brighter future while wearing Lafayette 148.

We wish both you good health and all the best, Lisa, as well as a happy welcome to the Lafayette 148 family! Thanks for representing the Lafayette 148 woman with courage and strength and we look forward to seeing and hearing about the even newer you come March!

Feel like sharing how your most recent experience with Lafayette 148 New York went either in store or online? Share with us on our Facebook wall or join the discussion.

Bold Color

2011-01-18T12:20:00.001-05:00

Brace yourselves: we're all about to look like we were cast in an episode of The 70s Show. Yep. The 70s are back in full gear for this spring and according to one of our favorite fashion mags, Harpers Bazaar, women will be sporting wide-leg trousers, halter tops, full skirts and even pajama look-a-likes as day wear. But if we had to choose one 70s trend we're happiest to see available in stores again, that would have to be bold color. Adding just one vibrant piece to your look can add a unique twist to brighten almost any outift (or even mood!). But if you're looking to use more than one bold color in an outift, our design team wants you to remember to keep the colors in the same family of tones. Don't turn this trend into a catastrophe of color and use the bold color as your statement piece. Here are some of our favorite bold color picks for spring. What do you think?

1. Fluid Linen Blend Hidden Placket Zip Jacket in Cactus
2. Stretch Cotton Clarissa Top in Papaya
3. Luxury Lambskin Hardy Jacket in Jalapeno

Customer Spotlight: Kathy from Florida

2011-01-14T12:51:00.002-05:00

TGIF, right? The weekend is almost here and we thought another exciting thing to celebrate on Fridays would be you! We're starting a brand new Customer Spotlight column here at The Garment Bag. Every week, we will highlight one of you as a loyal customer and a real example of a Lafayette 148 New York woman. Each one of you is truly unique and we love hearing more about you and why you're devoted to Lafayette 148. We appreciate and encourage feedback from our biggest fans whether its via e-mail or a Facebook wall post, so thanks, everyone! Keep it coming and maybe you'll see yourself in the hot seat on The Garment Bag. And congratulations to first-time customer Kathy from Florida for being our very first customer spotlight! Welcome to the Lafayette 148 family, Kathy!

Feel like sharing how your most recent experience with Lafayette 148 New York went either in store or online? Share with us on our Facebook wall or join the discussion.

Minimalism

2011-01-11T10:26:00.002-05:00

One of the trends for 2011 is minimalism (well, it's a spring trend ... but we can't wait for spring too much longer, the snow in New York is getting redundant). Keeping your outfits simple, clean and to the point is what it's going to be all about. But how are you supposed to create clean looks when your closet is a mess? I was recently talking with our assistant designer, Francesco Pugliese, and he said that one of his new year's resolutions is to maintain a functional yet minimal wardrobe by keeping classic, essential pieces and stop being wasteful with old trends and clutter. In other words, de-cluttering your closet will not only help you create sleeker looking outfits, but you'll have more room for those killer trendy pieces as statement pieces. Francesco suggested you keep the clothes that are clean, classic and chic so you can feel free to add a little touch of trend (whether it's a belt, necklace or tank top) and avoid being a boring minimalist.

Francesco in the design room taking a look at the next catalog.

Francesco says the eight essential pieces all women should keep in their closets this year are two classic suits (one pant, one skirt), a sleeveless simple dress (best if it's the same fabric as your suit so you can pair it with the suit jacket), two white blouses (one traditional, one feminine), one trench coat (for cover, function and a touch of trend), a simple t-shirt, and a pair of your favorite jeans. Here's where to start the art of minimalism with your favorite pieces from Lafayette 148 New York:

Essential Suiting
Simple Dresses
White Stretch Cotton Blouses
Jackets & Coats
Tops & Tees
Denim Boutique

New Year's Resolution: Shop Smarter

2011-01-04T13:44:00.002-05:00

New year's resolutions are tough. You spend all this time coming up with something amazing you're going to do to better your life and then by mid-January you've either given up or haven't even started yet. Which is why this year my new year's resolution is to come up with a practical new year's resolution. What I mean is that my practical new year's resolution this year is that I want to shop smarter. This is not about saving money, necessarily (even though maybe it could!). This is about making the most out of my wardrobe. I've mentioned this before. How many times a week do you stand in front of your very full closet and think you have nothing to wear? Just about every day, right? Well, if we learn to be smarter shoppers and purchase clothes that can make multiple outfits instead of just wear them as statement pieces once, then perhaps we'll all spend less time in the morning in our closets and more time reading the news or eating a healthy breakfast or exercising.

What basic pieces do you use to optimize your closet? Tell us on Facebook!

Last-Minute New Year's Eve Party Attire Ideas

2010-12-28T11:47:00.003-05:00

The hype of Christmas is starting to die down and now we all need something else to obsess over. Luckily, New Year's is just around the corner! Unluckily, some of us have been too busy focusing on buying gifts these last few weeks and forgot to think about what to wear to celebrate the start of 2011. For time's sake (New Year's Eve is Friday and it's already Tuesday, gah!), here are a few basic rules, besides wearing sequins, to help you look classic and glamorous without looking like you just bought your outfit the day before.

The LBD Will Never Let You Down.
Slimming, sexy and timeless. The Little Black Dress is a lady's best friend.

1. Stretch Wool Lourdes Dress; 2. Tudor Faille Sleeveless Dress; 3. Punto Milano Cap Sleeve Dress

Be Bright, Go Bold.
Stick with classic shapes in bright colors for a look that pops.

1. Lofty Crepe High Waist Slim Skirt; 2. Silk Charmeuse Bias Cut Tank; 3. Lofty Crepe Side Ruched Dress

Layer Up to Stand Out.
Whether you're layering for warmth or to protect you from the rain, don't let your layers ruin the aesthetic of your outfit. Your jackets and vests should make a statement too. One that says, "You should see my dress."

1. Dazzling Shimmer Rachele Jacket; 2. Lofty Crepe Mink Fur Auburn Jacket; 3. Mongolian Lambhair Vest

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-24T12:12:00.002-05:00

Sending our warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday this season from Lafayette 148 New York.

Two Stretch Cotton Blouses, Four Ways

2010-12-21T13:08:00.008-05:00

Trying to decide what to wear can feel like one of the most difficult decisions we make all day. There are several times throughout the week (meaning, pretty much every day) when I'll wake up, look in my closet and say I have nothing to wear. In reality, I have plenty to wear – I just don't know how to make a new outfit. And with the holidays fast approaching (starting with this weekend!), there are going to be more outfits we are going to need in just one week than we'd normally need for all the family gatherings or meetings with friends. But buying a new holiday dress isn't exactly necessary for this weekend. What's great about Lafayette 148 New York is that we have a fabulous set of essentials that you can mix and match with dozens of accessories and different kinds of bottoms. Take our premium Italian stretch cotton blouses, for example. They're flattering, sophisticated and wildly versatile. Below, we've created four basic outfits for you with two of our favorite white cotton stretch blouses. Each outfit has a different feel to it – whether it's casual chic or relaxed glamour, you can instantly make (at least) four entirely different outfits with just two blouses. Your mother won't even notice you wore the same shirt two days in a row.

Option One:

Stretch Cotton Jaycee Blouse; Punto Milano Stirrup Pant; Double Strand Wood Beaded Necklace;
Leopard Print Scarf; Gunmetal Leather Obi Belt

Option Two:

Stretch Cotton Jaycee Blouse; Gold Plated Novelty Short Debbie Skirt; Triple Strand Gold Resin Necklace;
Gunmetal Leather Obi Belt; Cashmere Ruffle Scarf

Option Three:

Stretch Cotton Clarissa Top; Aurora Ikat High Waist Slim Skirt; Leather Obi Belt

Option Four:

Stretch Cotton Clarissa Top; Metropolitan Stretch Slim Leg Bedford Pant; Stretch Merino Beaded Cardigan; Leather Obi Belt

Sparkle this Holiday Season

2010-12-09T13:58:00.013-05:00

Glam. Glitz. Embellished. Plush. To me, these are what holiday dressing is all about. My way of embodying this time of year while still looking chic rests on one thing, SEQUINS. They may have taken a back seat in recent years, but not to fear, they are back. From tanks and cardigans to skirts, sequins have really made their mark on this season’s fashions.

Above all, color is key. Keep it classy and sophisticated by choose a neutral color. Do a la Oprah Winfrey and sport our Glamorous Sequin Novelty Slim Skirt in Espresso Multi. If that is too bold for you, go with fishscale sequins. The smaller, tighter design of these sequins gives off a more modest look. Pair our Silk Chiffon Fishscale sequin tank or our Fishscale beaded tank (available in black, white and navy) with a pair of pants, like our Stretch CDC Wide Leg pant or go more casual and throw on our Garment Washed True Blue Denim Skinny 5 Pocket Jean. Because yes it’s the holidays, but you don’t need to wear an ugly holiday sweater to be festive.

In conclusion, remember 4 things. 1. Holiday wear is fashionable. 2. Stick to neutral colors because sequins are much classier when understated. 3. Lafayette 148 always does it right. 4. Dress up and have some fun with your outfits, it’s the HOLIDAYS!

Viva Barcelona!

2010-10-29T14:39:00.001-04:00

After returning from vacation this week, I started working with Edward (our fab designer)
on the layout for our Spring 2011 lookbook. To my surprise and delight, we’ll likely be featuring
Edward’s own photographs from Barcelona – one of the spectacular cities from which I
recently returned.

(side note: scrunchies are alive and well in Europe – yikes!)

One of the perks of working with Edward on layouts for lookbooks is that I get access
to his entire collection of travel photos. For his Barcelona trip alone, he took no less than
1800 shots. Edward takes inspiration from everything he sees on his travels – from the
beautiful Gaudi architecture to the local street fashion. I couldn’t resist sharing some
of them with our blog readers. Enjoy!

Warehouse Sale!

2010-10-25T17:08:00.002-04:00

Lucky Magazine, October 2010

2010-10-18T12:42:00.006-04:00

Now, I can’t guarantee that I can make you look like a cover girl, but I can help you dress like one, the one on the cover of the October issue of Lucky Magazine. Enter our Soft dream scallop edge cardigan. This plush merino and cashmere ¾ bell sleeve cardigan adds lady-like charm to any outfit with its delicate details of scallop edge trim and jewel neck with button closure. For those of you who love a pop of color, you have met your match with the cherry version. For those of you who prefer to be a little more understated, the black is right up your alley. Pair this great cardigan with the matching scallop edge shell for the perfect put together set. Or don’t. This cardigan will look great over just about anything. Try it with a luxe silk charmeuse tank in cloud, the combination of these fabrics is heavenly, paired with dark blue jeans. Or go a little edgier. Swap out the jeans for a killer pair of fitted leather pants. The sweetness of the cardigan with the hardness of the pants is sure to be a standout look.

If easy cool is what you are going for, mission accomplished.

Photoshoots and Puppies

2010-10-08T11:27:00.008-04:00

Yesterday we wrapped up the photoshoot for our December catalog. It was the first time I've ever been able to see the behind the scenes of a fashion shoot, and to be honest, it was super glamorous. So I snuck some shots to share with you! The showroom was completely transformed into every girl's dream:

Cosmetics, pillows, jewelry, cookies, and puppies? Yes, please.

I feel a chill coming on

2010-09-28T13:53:00.001-04:00

Any excuse to go shopping, I’ll take. What better reason then this chilly front that has surfaced in the past week? My Fall, must-have purchase is our Bi-Color Wool Jersey Draped Cloak Jacket, the perfect piece for the upcoming season. This hip skimming, oversized draped collar, shoulder button closure jacket is not only sleek, but easy. And who doesn’t like easy?!

Throw this jacket over a long sleeve top, skinny jean, flat boots and killer necklace, you’re all set. You’ll see that the jacket really completes the look; you won’t want to take it off when you get inside. But the best part is you don’t have to. Because of its lightweight and versatility, you won’t feel like you’re wearing a jacket. Outside, button up and its structured silhouette comes into play. Once inside, open up and let it fall naturally and sway as you move. So yes, inside and outside you will look chic and be comfortable.

Chic and Comfortable? I know... you almost fell off your chair... me too. It's unheard of.

Big Changes!

2010-09-24T11:42:00.005-04:00

This week marks the first days of fall! I love fall for lots of reasons: apple picking, hot cider, cardigans, flannel sheets...but mostly because it's a harbinger of change. Especially this year! Just this week I've started my first "real-life" job here at Lafayette 148, and it's been a very big (and very welcome) transition for me.

As soon as I was offered a position here, I called pretty much my entire family to tell them the super exciting news. One of the questions my grandma asked me was, "So why fashion?". For me, the answer is easy. As a graphic designer, a large aspect of my life is inspired by art. When I view the latest couture collections, I'm immediately brought back to my freshman year Principles of Art class - I don't see pricey clothing, I see line, shape, color, and texture. Fashion to me is partly about the realization of art within the social parameters of our lives.

So for my first ride on the blog train, I thought I'd post a few fashion-inspired works of visual art (My favorite is #2, Kelly Thompson has some totally swoon-worthy pieces). I highly encourage you to click on this image to view it full size, because then you'll get to see them up close and personal.

Were you a fan of #4? I love that sketchy illustrative style right now, and that pop of red for the Louboutin heels is perfection. As art and fashion tend to go hand in hand for me, it's no wonder I'm head over (high) heels for Loubs.

(photo credit: lucyvanpelt)

In school, I used to tell all my ladies that I was sick of being a poor college student, and as soon as I scored a big girl job I'd use my first paycheck to buy myself a pair of Louboutin heels. They would laugh jokingly and tell me it wasn't in the cards. Well, I guess at the time I didn't realize there were going to be some fiscal rain clouds hovering above my head after graduation. Bills? Loan payments? I never took those into consideration! But I've worked hard for this moment, and I've spent years looking forward to those shoes. Sure, my friends would tell me my Louboutins were just hoop dreams. But I bet in those 5 inch heels I could dunk. So that's it, I'm saving up and going for it. I deserve them.

Anti-Ankle Socks

2010-09-15T14:26:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I know this trend has been around for awhile already, but it wasn't until I saw it happening right in front of me that I actually became concerned.

Ankle socks with heels. No.

A 20-something woman was walking toward me on my way to work and all I could see were her bright yellow socks (with ruffled edges) and black strappy sandals. I have no idea what the rest of her looked like because I was blinded by her bumble-bee-looking feet.

Living in Brooklyn and working in SoHo, you see all manner of dress. If you saw it in a magazine, I guarantee you'll see someone trying it out on the street, not always successfully. This ankle sock get-up is one of those things. I appreciate this about New York, but ladies, unless you have a J. Crew stylist dressing you in the morning, stay away from this trend.

(all photos from Cynthia Rowley Legwear sale at Gilt in April 2010)

My New Obsession...

2010-09-01T13:30:00.004-04:00

I have become head over heels obsessed with our Stretch Cotton Clarissa Blouse. The Victorian feel of the high stand ruffle collar was what caught my attention. Along with the tailored silhouette and detachable bow, yes detachable, this blouse is the every woman, every occasion wear.

You could easily sport this blouse with a pair of fitted jeans, like our Garment Washed True Blue Denim Skinny 5 Pocket Jean, slip on a pair of embellished flats and your chic self is ready for walking around the city. Got a hot date? Spice up this blouse with a fun skirt like our King Snake Jacquard High Waist Slim Skirt. This animal print is sure to make a lasting impression. And at the office, it’s even easier! Pair it with a pencil skirt, fitted blazer and killer pumps. Just because you’re in the office, doesn’t mean you can’t flaunt your amazing fashion items. And lastly, winter is coming, which means holiday parties. Rock out by pairing the Clarissa with a skirt everybody will covet, the Nightsky Sequins Party Skirt. I can just see it now. All heads turn as you walk in the room in your gorgeous, yet easy going/didn’t try too hard outfit because yes, you look that good.

But don’t blame me, it’s not my fault all your colleagues got whiplash.

Every end is a new beginning!

2010-08-26T11:01:00.000-04:00

I was heading home on the subway last week when I spotted a woman wearing the most wonderful skirt. Slightly gathered at the top, falling just above the knee in a refreshingly simple cotton fabric, it was both flattering and comfortable looking. I needed one. Where could I find it?

Three days later, I’m strolling through a store on Broadway hoping to maybe find a skirt at least a little like the one I had seen. And suddenly, there in front of me practically waiting for me is the exact skirt. In 4 different colors. How?

New York is a very, very large city. The probability of my having walked into the exact store that carried the exact skirt I was looking for is absolutely mind-blowing to me. And yet, it happened.

A few months ago I realized that I was in dire need of a change of scenery. I was aching for new challenges and a new adventure. New York – while magical and alive, a city with it’s own pulse, no longer felt like ‘home’ to me. But I was scared to move alone to a new city. Three days later, my sister and I somehow found ourselves having a conversation about moving somewhere new, about how she too was in need of a new challenge and a new city. “How did she know that I had just been thinking about this?”. And yet, it happened.

"Every end is a new beginning" - Proverb

I can sum up my time at Lafayette 148 in a single word: inspiring. I’ve been inspired by my co-workers, by the wonderfulness of this company, by daily creative challenges and by the opportunities that have been given to me through working here.

And now I’m looking ahead to my next new adventure. I will miss my little “marketing cocoon” more than I can express, and thank you girls for being incredibly generous and wonderful people to work with. You are all hilarious and genuine and I will seriously miss our laugh breaks (and the 'peeps'!).

Behind the Scenes: Pre-Spring 2011 Lookbook

2010-08-05T10:12:00.002-04:00

When you flip through the pages of a magazine, do you think about how much went into a given shot? Of course you don’t. At least, I never did until I was lucky enough to experience a photo shoot.

The numerous racks of clothes, overflow of accessories and abundance of shoes would make you think the photo shoot was for a small army, not just two models. The real small army is those behind the scenes. From hair and makeup to the photographer’s crew, on average the studio was filled with at least 20 people. There were the fan handlers, the light technicians, and assistants after assistants after assistants.

Watching the models get their hair done, make up applied, nails painted and dressed, I couldn’t help but think of my childhood. Except now, I got to play with 5’10” real life Barbie dolls. What really amazed me about the models were their movements. The fluidity of their steps, transitioning from one position to another enabling the photographer to catch them in each stance actually led me back to my childhood once again. It was like a game of freeze tag, where the camera is “it” and the models are the players. Each click of the camera was the photographer yelling out “freeze”.

But even with the fun and games of Barbie’s and freeze tag, everyone was there with one goal in mind, to get the necessary shots for the Pre-Spring 2011 lookbook. The amount of work that went into this all day event was well worth the result.

Below are a few pictures I was able to sneak to share with you.

Website Update: Fall 2010!

2010-08-03T12:19:00.002-04:00

If you've visited our site today, and I really hope that you have, then you surely noticed that it got a fresh new look just in time for the Fall 2010 season!

Each season we redesign lafayette148.com, and use Edward's fantastic photoshoot images as the inspiration for our designing. This season, the stunning images from the Fall 10 shoot were the perfect foundation for re-creating the site.We had a blast using the Fall images to add life to the pages of the site. I really hope you'll take a few minutes today to check it out!

Also, stay tuned for the launch of the August 2010 Catalog. It will be dropping in homes very soon and new styles featured in the catalog will be going live in a week or two. The new catalog is absolutely stunning. Stunning!

Here's a preview of the cover shot.... beautiful!

The Best Thing about JFK Airport...

2010-07-30T12:43:00.003-04:00

Yes, this is a blog about Fashion, I know. But, I had such a pleasant experience with Fashion's best friend, Cosmetics, that I couldn't resist telling our loyal readers about it.

I'm fairly certain that most women feel the way I do about airports – spending time in one falls at about the same level of enjoyment as a sunburn. Which is why, on a recent visit to John F. Kennedy airport, I nearly wept with joy upon seeing a vending machine. A Sephora vending machine. At first, I had no idea what I was looking at, but once I realized that the contraption in front of me was filled with everything from lotions to eyelash curlers, I was drawn to it like a bee to honey.

I scanned the selection behind the glass and saw Tarte Cheek Stain. I was intrigued, but had no idea I was looking at something that would change my life. (Sidenote: because of my extremely fair complexion, my lifelong struggle with powder blush began when I was nine). Long story short, the vending machine (or ZoomShop as Sephora calls it) was super easy to use (and fun!) and I'll never go back to blush in powder form.

There's something about the cheek stain that makes the color appear more as though it's coming from within, and more natural than a colored powder. I strongly urge you all to try it!

If Money Were No Object: The Summer Edition

2010-07-22T10:46:00.001-04:00

I've spent the majority of this summer not perfecting my tan or sipping cool iced drinks and having park picnics, but instead hunting for the perfect warm-weather sandal. I've hit almost every store on Broadway from Howard St. up to 23rd and have yet to find what I'm looking for. It's not as though I don't know what I want in this sandal, therefore adding another layer of difficulty to my quest. On the contrary, I know exactly the kind of shoe I want, and I know that it exists. Because I keep seeing people walking around wearing my shoe! The shoe that I want. I'm one more failed attempt away from asking random strangers on the street where they bought there shoes. I'm that desperate.

I found this beauty this morning while perusing my usual favorite fashion sites and, stop the presses, it's exactly the shoe that I would love to spoil my feet with! New problem, though, this gem is it's a tad out of my price range for a shoe that will no doubt inevitably succumb to the dangers of New York City streets - but if I had $975 lying around, I'd have just the shoe to spend it on.

But still, it's fun to dream...

*Réne Caovilla Rose Sandals

Intern Life: Breakfast with the President

2010-07-15T16:05:00.001-04:00

Last week the interns were given the opportunity to sit down and have breakfast with Deirdre Quinn, the President of Lafayette 148. I have had internships in the past where the President of the company was an illusion. The majority of the employees had never seen this person, let alone would an intern get a chance to sit down and freely ask him/her questions. Luckily this is not the case at Lafayette 148 New York…

During breakfast Deirdre told us about her childhood, college experiences, and her exciting path to becoming the President of Lafayette 148. She also asked us about our experiences thus far in the internship and our aspirations of what we want to do in the future. It was very encouraging to be receiving advice from a person who has worked in multiple parts of the industry for the majority of her life. I learned that there is no right or wrong way to get to your dream job; you just have to take the opportunities you are given and then learn as much as possible. I know this experience will be the highlight of my summer and the advice I received will carry with me throughout the years.

Until next time…
xoxo Kelsey V.

Why not go Nude?

2010-07-13T17:30:00.001-04:00

Welcome the color of summer, the new neutral, the nude. This versatile trend has taken the fashion and beauty worlds by storm. But what is interesting about this shade is that it represents a palette of colors. From beige to caramel, cream and apricot, the nude trend works for so many women. And what is even better is the mixing of the shades and fabrics. Fall 2010 RTW runways were bombarded with this versatile trend, from dresses and blouses to slacks and jackets. It proved to be a seasonless trend.

If you are not all about the faux naked look when it comes to clothing, jump on the nude accessories track. Nude pumps are essential. Not only do they make your legs look longer and leaner, but they go with everything. They are the “every situation shoe”. Need a shoe for your eccentrically colorful dress? It’s all about the nude.

How I got dressed before my nude pumps is beyond me. That may be why I’ve expanded my nude collection to peep toe pumps and ballet flats. But nude shoes are not as black and white as one may think. Although you can choose to keep your nudes simple, most designers have opted for something else. Christian Louboutin’s new collection is the perfect example of the array of possibilities in nude shoes. His signature Mary Janes have been de-colored, as well as his classic prive peep toe pumps, but the shoe that takes nude to the next level is his Fetilo Mesh and Patent Leather Pumps. These gorgeous fishnet peep toes with leather trim, hidden platform and 4 1/2” heel pumps are to die for. Along with the understatement of color, they are sheer, making that signature red bottom even more of a knock out.

Nudes are meant to be neutral but who can resist a splash of red.

Intern Life: Launching a Catalog

2010-06-28T17:20:00.007-04:00

In my first three weeks at Lafayette, I’ve spent a good amount of time meeting the really great people who work here, becoming slightly less Excel challenged, having a full-on war with the 2nd floor printer, and learning about Lafayette’s e-commerce and direct to consumer business.

Apart from all that, I’ve spent the rest of my time working on preparations for the next catalog photo shoot. Getting to be here for a catalog shoot was one of the things I was most excited about during my internship at Lafayette 148. The last two weeks here have been eye-opening in terms of understanding what it really takes to launch a Catalog.

Here’s a bit about what I’ve learned...

Before it is even possible to shoot the book, serious preparations are in order. Looks are picked, outfits matched, line sheets are created and samples are found. Last week Betsy, my supervisor, and I went on the first of what I assume will be many hunts for the samples we will use for the photo shoot. Once we track down all of the samples needed for the shoot, we assess what we have and still need.

If we don’t have one of the pieces that we need, Betsy will then order what is called a dupe (short for duplicate). A dupe is basically a remake of the sample, but since every sample is hand produced, the dupe has to be ordered ASAP to make sure it arrives in time for the shoot. This is just 1% of what goes into this crazy process!

I was honestly expecting most of the work for it to happen only in the week of the shoot. But there’s so much that happens long before that week even begins. I can already tell that I’ve only just begun to understand how this process works and I’m so excited to learn more about it! I am sad that a full three weeks have already gone by, but I am excited for the next 6 weeks and all that I will get to do.

Until next time…
xoxo Kelsey V.

When it comes to clothes, quality first.

2010-06-24T16:21:00.005-04:00

It wasn’t an easy lesson. I was stuck in a uniform from the age of 5 through 19 thanks to a lifetime of private schooling. So on the weekends, my only time to escape the land of pleated skirts and logoed socks (yes, socks with a school logo), I only wanted to wear the latest and trendiest. I especially adored those trend-a-minute stores with a seemingly endless selection of great styles for crazy cheap prices. That was heaven to me at 16-years-old. Give me fifty bucks and an afternoon, and I could walkout with a whole new wardrobe!

My mom felt this to be a huge waste of money, “A shirt you buy for $3 won’t last more than 3 wears, if you’re lucky.”

“But mooooooom”, I’d say, “It wasn’t $3... it was $10.” Zing. I really had her this time. She was cramping my style.

But she wasn’t having any of it. Instead, she said, it was off to the only department store on the island for what she called “quality clothes that would last”.

Now this really stumped me. WHAT was the point of designer clothes when you live in Hawaii? Where would I wear them? The beach? I was not digging it. The main sticking point seemed so clear. For the price of a pair of jeans here, I could get a bundle of shirts at the other places. She was missing the point of shopping, I was sure of it.

Cut to a few months later. I'm doing some much needed closet cleaning, when I find a huge pile of forgotten and worn-out clothes in the corner... 90% of the pile was made up of those super trendy $3 so-called treasures I so adored.

But do you know what was still tucked away neatly in the closet, well cared for and loved? My now favorite pair of jeans that mom made me buy. Okay.... So maybe she was on to something here.

As I grew older, and began to value money a lot more now that I was making my own and the ‘Bank of Mom and Dad’ had closed it’s doors to me, I started to realize that there really was something to my mom’s clothing philosophy. (That's right, I just admitted that I was wrong and my mom was right. It's a new day here in adult town.)

Sure, I’m still a sucker for a cute $15 dress on a relaxing summer day or for a city adventure, but I won’t expect it to last very long. I can still hear my moms wise words (because she still tells me all the time)... “It’s better to spend more on something that will last you forever, than waste your money on things that won’t last one day.”

You were so right mom.

If I had all the money in the world..

2010-06-21T15:50:00.009-04:00

Mr. Valentino would be proud! The style, the craftsmanship, the elegance walking down the Spring 2010 Runway show in Milan was breathtaking, and I’m not talking about the clothes. Granted, the clothes are always beautiful but at this show, all eyes were on the models feet. The lucky few strutted down the catwalk in 4 ½” Valentino Sculpture Lace Pumps.

If money were no object, I would strut the streets of New York City in these bad boys. The lace and mesh overlay with the leather underlay, the lace floral appliqué adorning the leather covered heel, and the flow of the lace mesh along the vamp make this style a piece of art. And they know it with a price tag of $4,700.

I’ve had the pleasure of trying on these beauties and let me say, they really are amazing. As soon as your foot is engulfed in the lace, you feel like a million bucks. Slipping into them comes with ease but it’s the walking which presented itself as a challenge. Not only is the height of the heel astronomical for even a veteran stiletto walker, the weight of the adornment on the heel causes some issues. This adornment is a trap for those (most of us) who aren’t used to the bulk. Step 1 and 2 were great, 3 and 4 even better but it was at 5, when I got ahead of myself, that it all went downhill. The swaying of all that material created a velcro-like connection between the shoes. The interweave of the fabric was so strong that one step brought both feet, and the rest of my body down. Stunned by my sudden yet graceful fall, I immediately checked the status of the shoes. They were fine, unlike my bruised ego. I couldn’t believe it. I just fell, simply walking.

To this day, I think about those shoes. If I had all the money in the world I would purchase them, build a glass box to display them and make sure to never attempt a fashion stunt like that again.

Edward's Pre-Spring 2010 sketches!

2010-06-17T16:20:00.009-04:00

If there's one thing that we love here at Lafayette 148, it's Edward Wilkerson's (our Designer) sketches. Every season, Edward fills sketchbooks to the point of bursting, with sketches of ideas for the collection, along with countless fabric swatches and notes about design direction. One of my favorite things to do is "borrow" one of his sketchbooks and look through it – it's the best way to get a feel for the collection, short of looking at the garments themselves.

I'm helping Edward develop a new Gift with Purchase, that may involve the use of his sketches (I can't tell you what it is, it's a surprise!). For the creation, Edward passed along some of his favorites for the season. I couldn't resist sharing them with you!

Intern Life: Welcome, Kelsey!

2010-06-16T09:47:00.004-04:00

Just a little preview into my life as an intern here at Lafayette 148 New York….

When I first arrived at 148 Lafayette Street I was blown away. The offices were beautiful! From the woven rugs to the fresh white hydrangeas, everything was perfect. After a quick orientation, I was given the 4 floor tour of all of the different departments. Something I found very unique about Lafayette 148 was that so much is done right here in New York. I loved being able to see where the designer Edward Wilkerson sketches, where those sketches are turned into patterns, and where the beautiful one of a kind samples are then made.

I am so excited about my upcoming summer here at Lafayette 148 and my opportunity to be part of the e-commerce team. I know I will learn more than I ever thought possible while getting to do some really cool things. I am especially looking forward to the October catalog photo shoot at the end of July and getting to know the other interns. Check back soon for more updates on my life as an intern.

Until next time…
xoxo Kelsey V.

Hello

2010-06-14T17:18:00.004-04:00

I consider myself one of the lucky. In this city of small apartments, bustling streets and, oh too good, fashion, I am lucky enough to have closet space. The amount of closet space was going to be the deciding factor as to which apartment I was going to dwell in for the next year.

At my first meeting with the broker, he asked “what are you looking for?” I had one answer, CLOSETS. That may be the worst thing to tell a broker in New York City trying to find you an apartment on a budget. His face dropped at my request.

Day 1 of the search: Upper East Side, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, Kitchen, living room closet, bedroom closet.

This sounded great. He was happy, I was happy, 2 closets! Not so much. This “closet” being referred to was more like a coffin. It could have probably held 4 dresses. Not sufficient. Moving along.

Day 10: Gramercy, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchen, living room, and large closet

At first glance, the apartment was perfect. Everything was brand new, granite counter tops in the kitchen, hardwood floors throughout the whole apartment, I thought I had found “the one”. But where was the closet? There was a clothing nook, but that could not be the large closet they were talking about but then I saw it, a narrow, shallow hole in the wall masked by a door was what they considered an NYC closet.

I had no words.

By day 20, I was starting to give up. I couldn’t understand. How was it that New York women were so glamorous, always on trend, and chic but had nowhere to put their stuff?

My friends all teased, telling me my poor broker was going to have a mental breakdown before I was done with him. The sad thing was I think they were right.

I realized I had to lower my standards and do what, apparently, a lot of New York City women do, storage bags under the bed. With this in mind, I continued my search.

Then as if sent from above, I saw my beloved in a small one bedroom in the heart of Murray Hill. The closet stretched the whole wall. It even had shelves. I thought I was going to pass out.

The expression of sheer bliss on my face must have been a dead give away to the broker who sighed with relief. Both the relief that I found what I wanted and that he didn’t have to deal with me anymore.

Needless to say, I took that apartment. Upon moving in I realized my clothes, purses and shoes didn’t even fill the closet. So I did what any young NYC lady would do, I attempted to fill that empty space.

Hi I’m Tara and my closet has fueled my shopping addiction.

Thank You

2010-06-11T14:53:00.002-04:00

When I started working at Lafayette 148 in 2007, if you told me that one day I’d be a ‘blogger’, I might have laughed at the idea. I didn’t consider myself to be a writer, nor have anything particularly interesting to write about for that matter.

Three years later, I have come to love ‘our little blog’ we have created. I may not have kept up with the joneses (yes, Aislinn & Brenda blog more than me!), but with each entry I was happy with my contribution. After all, the subject matter was easy – Lafayette 148 is an amazing brand and I have always been proud to speak about the wonderful things we do here. It’s been a true pleasure to be a part of this blog, but just like any short lived trend, it’s time for the latest fad. And with that said, it’s my pleasure to introduce Tara V. as the newest blogger to The Garment Bag.

During my time at Lafayette 148, I have been fortunate enough to work with some extremely talented and intelligent people that have come to be my dear friends. Being surrounded by such a solid team of co-workers has made my job easier, yet now makes it that much harder to say, see you soon (not goodbye).

I couldn’t go without a special shout out to my marketing girls – thanks for all the laughs. You are all truly hilarious people that made work entertainingly-fun and creative. I will really miss you guys.

Good luck with the blog – I’ll be following.

Till we meet again…
Sara C.
xoxo

A Sneak Peek at Pre-Spring 11!

2010-06-02T10:24:00.008-04:00

There was an unusual amount of shuffling and running around for 9am on a Wednesday when I walked into the office this morning. I couldn’t help being curious about all the people with samples, rolls of fabric, necklaces and shoes dashing around the showroom. “Another photo shoot so soon?”, I thought (we had our last one just last week). I peeked in to see what was going on, and it took me a few seconds to realize it was our Design team diligently setting up the showroom for the final stages of Pre-Spring 11 Collection development.

In the marketing dept., we’re usually working a season or two behind where the development teams are focusing. While we’re currently concentrating our marketing efforts on Fall 10, they’ve left the Fall months behind and moved right into Pre-Spring 11! Oi!

So anyway, I grabbed the camera knowing that you loyal readers would want a little preview of all the action. Enjoy these "sneak peek" shots!

If Money Were No Object, Take 3

2010-05-20T12:33:00.011-04:00

I never worry about diets. The only carrots that interest me are the number of carats in a diamond. – Mae West

I have attached a photo of my dream necklace. This platinum beauty from Tiffany is three strands of diamond perfection. If money were no object, I would throw down the $1.8 million required for purchase and wear it with every outfit, including my pajamas.

This Fall season, Edward Wilkerson knew it was definitely time to add accessories into the Lafayette 148 collection. As a jewelry lover myself, I was thrilled once I saw the sample pieces. Pearls, velvet, feathers and black jet beads are used to create statement pieces with amazing texture, that won't cost you your retirement fund.

Check out lafayette148.com in June – that's when we'll be offering these spectacular accessories for purchase!