Lafayette 148 Spring Summer 2024 Lookbook

Lafayette 148's Emily Smith, the creative force behind the brand, brings a breath of fresh air to the fashion scene with the Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Inspired by her recent foray into upstate living, the collection marries urban living with nature, resulting in a stunning blend of contemporary fashion and organic inspiration.

Breaking away from tradition, Lafayette 148 opted for a presentation at the Jefferson Market Garden in the West Village. This unconventional choice of venue showcased the brand's willingness to step outside the conventional fashion show setting, offering a unique backdrop that perfectly complemented the collection's theme.

Smith and her team drew inspiration from their surroundings at the Navy Yard, overlooking the Brooklyn Grange. The collection is a celebration of the concept of urban orchards—oases of greenery within the cityscape. This idea materializes through tonal printed jacquard, featuring life-size plants and flowers created using the eco-printing process. The result is a beautiful, wearable, and modern take on a traditional technique.

The collection introduces an eco-printed tonal jacquard on a casual burlap khaki suit, showcasing a wrap-style jacket tied at the waist, a matching sash, and straight-legged trousers. Smith explains the eco-printing process, likening it to an "old lady thing," but emphasizes its modern and fashionable reinterpretation.

Lafayette 148's signature thinner-than-thin leather makes a striking return in a cropped short-sleeve shirt and matching skirt, featuring fringe details. An oversized sky blue shirt dress adds a touch of sophistication and versatility to the collection. The knitted jacquard, appearing on a T-shirt, maxi skirt, and scarf in shades of blue and white, captures the essence of the sky, creating a lightweight and refreshing ensemble.

Drawing inspiration from aprons, the collection showcases a white silk crepe de chine column gown with a draped organza overlay. Smith describes it as resembling "when you take an apron and quickly tie it in the back," adding a touch of elegance to the lineup.

With the rise of "quiet luxury," Lafayette 148 has witnessed increased attention from celebrities. The brand's discreet charm and sophisticated designs have resonated with influencers, hinting at Lafayette 148's readiness to step into the spotlight. Smith expresses the brand's eagerness to shed its "hidden secret" status and introduce Lafayette 148 to a broader audience.