Lafayette 148, a womenswear brand known for its sophisticated suiting, has released its Fall 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection, revisiting the foundational designs that established the label 30 years ago. Designer Emily Smith marked the company’s milestone anniversary by drawing inspiration from the brand’s archives, focusing on both garment craftsmanship and production methods rooted in its early history.
Smith took a detailed approach to garment construction, integrating classic elements into a contemporary framework with an emphasis on women-led design. The collection features a diverse New York City-inspired color palette and a careful consideration of fabric texture and structure.
Key highlights include four new pant cuts showcasing sleek, elongated silhouettes with slightly cinched waists and sharp shoulders, reflecting the tailored shapes popular in the 1990s. The collection also offers a reimagined version of the iconic white button-up shirt, presented as a wrap-style top with an oversized, relaxed fit.
Smith described her focus on “the bits,” referring to the areas a modern wearer might want to highlight or conceal. The mid-rise pants and midi skirts are designed with long, lean lines, complementing the slimmer shapes throughout the collection. Ornamentation is minimal, though the inclusion of delicate in-house floral appliqués adds subtle touches of romantic detail.
The Fall 2026 line underscores a blend of timeless design and contemporary sensibility, paying homage to Lafayette 148’s legacy while adapting for modern wardrobes. This latest collection follows a year of celebrating the brand’s anniversary and reflects a thoughtful return to its sartorial beginnings with an updated aesthetic.
