New York-based womenswear label Derek Lam is preparing for a major comeback as Derek Lam returns to New York Fashion Week with a new creative director. Owned by Public Clothing Company, the brand has appointed acclaimed designer Robert Rodriguez as its new creative director and will officially relaunch its mainline collection at New York Fashion Week this February.
The return marks a pivotal moment for the label, which has been without a creative head since founder Derek Lam stepped away from the brand in 2023. With this appointment, the house signals a renewed commitment to design, relevance, and modern American fashion.
Robert Rodriguez Takes the Creative Helm
Robert Rodriguez, a Cuban-born and Miami-raised designer celebrated for his refined yet wearable approach to fashion, will debut his first Derek Lam Collection for autumn/winter 2026. Known for blending sharp tailoring with fluid femininity, Rodriguez brings a sophisticated perspective that aligns naturally with the brand’s DNA.
As creative director, Rodriguez will oversee all creative elements of the label, from design direction and product development to overall brand image, as Derek Lam reintroduces itself to the global fashion stage.
Reimagining a Modern American Classic
In a statement, Rodriguez shared that he was drawn to Derek Lam’s roots in modern American design and its understated elegance. He described the opportunity as a chance to reinterpret the brand’s core values through “timeless style and contemporary wearability.”
Founded in 2003, the Derek Lam Collection has long been associated with modern minimalism, subtle luxury, and effortless American ease. Rodriguez’s vision aims to honour this heritage while evolving it with greater warmth, texture, and sensuality—bringing fresh depth to the label without losing its refined simplicity.
A Strategic Reset for the Brand
Danielle Alalu, president of Derek Lam, highlighted that the relaunch is part of a broader strategy to strengthen design innovation, expand category offerings, and reconnect with consumers.
She explained that as the fashion landscape has shifted, the brand sees an opportunity to reintroduce Derek Lam as a designer-driven collection that is more accessible while maintaining elevated quality. According to Alalu, Rodriguez’s meticulous focus on fit, craftsmanship, and detail makes him the ideal choice to reposition the brand within the advanced contemporary market.
Inspired by New York and Its Women
For his debut collection, Rodriguez turned to New York City as his central source of inspiration. The designer looked to the women who navigate the city with quiet confidence, as well as the urban textures that define it—from cast-iron architecture and worn stone streets to the everyday utilitarian objects that shape city life.
These influences will translate into a collection that is restrained yet expressive, balancing structure and softness while reflecting the rhythm and character of New York itself.
Building the Next Chapter of Derek Lam
Dan Shamdasani, chief executive of Public Clothing Company, described Rodriguez as a rare talent who combines creative vision with strong commercial instincts. Together with Alalu’s leadership, he believes the team is well positioned to guide Derek Lam into its next phase as a modern American brand with global relevance.
Following its New York Fashion Week debut, the Derek Lam Collection will relaunch through brand-owned direct-to-consumer channels, alongside select partnerships with leading international retailers to be announced later this year. Prices will range from $295 to $1,295, and the collection will operate alongside the brand’s existing Derek Lam 10 Crosby line.
