Known for upscale, contemporary women’s fashion, Derek Lam’s eponymous line has always invoked relaxed yet elegant vibes since its establishment in 2003. Eight years later, his diffusion line, Derek Lam 10 Crosby, has continued the unpretentious, sporty vibe as a lower-priced, casual brand named after a former office address in Soho, New York.

A native San Franciscan, Lam spent six months studying art at the Academy of Art University and soon found himself at the Parsons School of Design in New York. He joined Michael Kors upon graduation and struck out on his own when he began to feel unsatisfied with the lack of design autonomy. With his real-life partner, Jan-Hendrik Schlottmann as CEO and Lam taking the role of lead designer, the pair established the company in 2003. Retailers such as Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and Barneys quickly snapped up his first collections. Soon, Lam became known for his use of neutral colors, soft leathers, and patched fabrics. In 2005, he won the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of American (CFDA) Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for womenswear. He also served as Tod’s Creative Director for the brand’s ready-to-wear line from 2005 through 2010.

Astute interpretations of classic pieces are at the core of 10 Crosby. For Spring-Summer 2016, Lam emphasized clean lines and practicality, all the while remaining staunchly loyal to his preference of visual and personal understatement. His choice of color schemes complement any modern wardrobe palette with simple yet wearable designs in black and white, as well nature-inspired blues and tans. Texture and trim adds something special to many of the pieces, including a leather lace-up jumpsuit and a wide selection of dresses and skirts with lacey or fringed edges. The beauty of each piece lies in its styling potential and the wearable collection adds just enough subtle flair to any outfit.

Also in 2016 has been the debut of the Derek Lam 10 Crosby scent collection. Inspired by the various women strolling the streets of New York City, especially on Crosby Street, the fragrance interpretations are meant to capture moments in these women’s lives. The scents were created in collaboration with four perfumers: Clement Gavarry, Pascal Gaurin, Yves Cassar, and Laurent Le Guernec.