Derek Lam made his Fashion Week debut in 2003, sending out a collection that would mark a new era in crisp, clean, American sportswear. He redefined the classics, crafting a cool line of looks that felt utterly modern thanks to smart tailoring and attention to detail. What remains in each reincarnation is an unmistakably chic aesthetic — effortless, easy, and wearable. He loves color as much as he loves black; he experiments as much with the classics as he does with edgier designs and prints but continues to deliver a clever mix of the slick and the feminine. Click through for a look back at the San Francisco-born designer's runways and see exactly what we mean.
Construction was of the essence, with carefully rounded shoulders and intricately pieced suede and leather skirts.
A completely neutral look is anything but minimal with layers of intricate details.
The designer broadened his normally neutral palette this season to include pale pink, cornflower blue, hunter green, and ocher.
There were other texture moments, too, by way of a heavily sequined skirt and fringed accents on necklines and sleeves.
Layering was big, with boxy crop tops worn over dresses. And texture had its moment to shine, such as this roughly woven dress you want to reach out and touch.
Gingham was't the only thing retro about Spring 2014 — the turbans that walked the runway added to the plucked-from-the-past vibe.
A minimalist gown showed off a folded neckline that was pretty, but not distracting.
For Fall, colorblocking took a geometric spin, with triangular pieces featuring prominently.
For this dress, he featured both gorgeous brocade and the trend of the moment — a fashion-forward collar.
Fall '07 was nothing short of amazing. This shearling vest dress is ridiculously cool.