Angela’s Lab | A Chat with Edward Wilkerson + His Latest Collection

The creative force behind beloved brand Lafayette 148 New York since 1998, Edward Wilkerson is as charming as he is talented and I was lucky enough to join him for lunch last week to find out more about his inspirations, passions and what makes him tick.

Born and raised in the Big Apple, Edward joined Lafayette 148 New York after honing his craft designing for Calvin Klein and Donna Karan. He cites his mother and her chic style as a major influence early on and told me that he is inspired daily watching the melding of cultures and style on the streets of the city. “Keeping a global perspective and traveling around the world is key to being successful in the fashion design world. You really can’t be a good designer without it.” So, as you might imagine, Edward travels whenever he has a chance.

Photo Credit for Above: www.hauteeventphotography.com

With talent spanning across several design disciplines, Edward is also a photographer and his work has been on exhibit both nationally and internationally. In addition, his homes have been featured in magazines for their stunning decor. Right now, he is working on a book about how travel inspires design and recently spent a month-and-a-half traveling in Southeast Asia, China and India gathering design inspiration and taking glorious photos for the book (I got a sneak peek at his working notebook!). It has been a labor of love for him and it’s going to be amazing. I can’t wait to see the published end result!

When it comes to clothing design, Edward believes that versatility and quality is key. In other words, one investment piece that you can style from day to night and variety of ways will serve you far better than 10 inexpensive pieces that only last one season and can’t be worn multiple ways. Rich colors, luxe fabrics and original prints are the cornerstones of his collections. Also, he states, “Not everyone can wear everything.” So true, it’s important to understand your body type, style and what flatters you, whether you are 25 or 55. A credo we live by at Mom Style Lab.

What other interesting tidbits did I find out about Edward?

• He lives on the water and is greatly inspired by it.
• He loves mid-century modern furniture and is fan of RED Modern in Phoenix, Arizona.
• His office looks like a living room, since he works at his best when he is comfortable.
• He’s has been a member of The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) since 2004 and has received numerous fashion awards coveted in the industry.

The day following our lunch, I attended the Lafayette 148 New York fashion show and presentation at Nordstrom (attired in Lafayette 148 New York of course!) for a look at the line’s Resort 2015 Collection. Edward presented the collection and was on hand for one-on-one styling sessions with customers. He told me that he loves to help women feel beautiful in their clothes and maybe take a step out of their comfort zone to take their style to the next level. As a woman, you feel safe confiding in him because he is so warm, approachable and genuinely wants to help. This approach is a big part of why the company is so successful, along with understanding what their customers want and the gorgeous, sophisticated clothes. Love it!

Edward talking with customers at Nordstrom. Photo Credit: www.hauteeventphotography.com

Here’s what I wore and the pieces I am eyeing for my closet.

Dress & Necklace, Lafayette 148 New York // Boots, Sam Edelman (similar here & here) | Photo Credit: www.hauteeventphotography.com

These flowy, cropped pants are so fresh and modern. Photo Credit: www.hauteeventphotography.com

 This leather jacket is edgy in the front and girly on the back. I love how the cream top layers underneath to show off the back.

 The perfect LBD with a pretty sheer sleeve (On Sale!). Photo Credit: www.hauteeventphotography.com