The Resort 2025 collection from Lafayette 148 is evidence of the brand's inventiveness and commitment to fusing fashion and art. Through the Save Venice organization, the brand has been supporting the restoration of an oil painting by Venetian painter Giulia Lama from the early eighteenth century, titled Virgin in Prayer. Their most recent vacation collection was heavily inspired by this restoration project, with creative director Emily Smith and her team exploring the artistic and cultural core of the Baroque era.Smith went into detail about the collection's distinctive blending of Baroque influences with the brand's typical New York minimalism during a private meeting in her Brooklyn Navy Yard shop. Smith highlighted the minute intricacies woven throughout the collection and said, "You'll see touches of Baroque influence throughout because the painting was made in Venice in the Baroque period." A breezy white skirt features tiny pearls stitched in its folds, fitted separates are adorned with lace accents, and a knitted tunic with a fringed hem is adorned with latticework. These elaborate details exemplify an elegant yet streamlined look by standing out against the minimalist silhouettes.
The metallic flower jacquards in the series come in a variety of colors, from sparkling silver to rusty mustard, and are intended to mimic the patina that ages paintings and the brightness that comes via restoration. A contemporary "ballgown" skirt that stops just above the ankle and a boatneck vest both cleverly showcase this motif, providing a laid-back yet elegant alternative for black-tie attire. A large donegal wool jacket with silver accents weaved throughout offers a stylish yet approachable take on the metallic theme.
One particularly striking item is a blue, plissé short-sleeve tunic and matching pants that are evocative of Venice's famous canals. A whimsical and creative atmosphere permeates the collection thanks to Smith's depiction of a painter's uniform, which consists of an off-white pair of pants and a white button-down shirt with paint splotches all over them. Another standout feature is a white button-down shirt that has a double portrait collar that reaches the back. It's a simple yet eye-catching design element.
One of the most striking items from the collection is a tight-fitting velvet jacket in "Lido Blue" that is quilted and embroidered, despite not being included in the lookbook. This jacket seamlessly blends the past and present with its crew collar and historical costume-inspired style, making it adaptable enough to wear with its matching dress or jeans. It perfectly embodies the concept of the season by skillfully fusing historical inspiration with modern women's fashion.
The Resort 2025 line from Lafayette 148 expertly combines contemporary design with historical inspiration to create pieces that are both gorgeous and functional. Every piece narrates a tale of artistic legacy and fine craftsmanship, providing a wardrobe that is ideal for today's active ladies.