Liz Giardina, vice president of design for Derek Lam 10 Crosby, has done a great job adapting the pillars of Lam’s main collection — American sportswear with clean bohemian attitude — for the contemporary market, making it younger in spirit without sacrificing sophistication. Her spring collection was a great example of this balance. Deriving influence from Andalucía, including flamenco ruffles, bullfighting, Moorish architecture and porcelain prints, the lineup had more playful exotic references than usual, but handled in a relatively minimal way. “Generally we wouldn’t have this many trims on a garment,” said Giardina, handling a paisley pom-pom-trimmed matador jacket with embroidered details. “But it felt really fun and appropriate for summer.”
The clothes were a crisp blend of modern sport and festive femininity. For example, an off-the-shoulder button-down shirt with pom-pom trim over a matching skirt; a slim stretch ribbed knit tunic over matching flared cropped pants and tank dresses with a pretty blend of floral prints. 10 Crosby handbags are also developing nicely, with a great patchwork style and miniature fringed bucket bags.
