Some designers burst out the gate with a bang; Sander Lak chose a softer approach, welcoming New York’s fashion circuit to experience his new world of laid-back luxury at their own pace. His namesake debut, inspired by the spirit of Los Angeles, unfolded on the other end of the flyover zone yesterday with an evening cocktail at the Manner. CULTURED was there to witness it all, from the first clink of cocktails to guests spilling out onto the street outside SoHo’s chicest boutique hotel.
The Scene: A tightly curated cocktail in the lead-up to New York Fashion Week, marking the U.S. debut of Sanderlak’s YEAR 01: Los Angeles collection, following the brand’s Paris Men’s Week launch last June.
The Locale: The Manner, a downtown haunt resplendent with elegantly modern interiors, reflected the tone of Lak’s design philosophy. At the Apartment—its exclusive clubhouse space for guests—an intimate Sanderlak showroom was erected, layered with California-themed publications and music.
The Crowd: A constellation of industry insiders and cultural notables were present to view the collection, including musician Maggie Rogers, actor Katie Holmes, designer Christopher John Rogers, film directors Lucy Walker and Nia DaCosta, Saks Global Fashion and Lifestyle Director Chloe King, Whitney curator Rujeko Hockley, model Guinevere van Seenus, Vogue‘s Mark Holgate, writer and artistic director Dan Thawley, A Magazine Curated By Editor-in-Chief Blake Abbie, and more.
What You Missed: A chance to view, feel, and explore Lak’s newly imagined looks across pastel colorways, soothing fabrics, and accessible cuts—all with a contemporary edge.
Memorable Moment: Lak himself, stepping into the crowd to join friends and supporters old and new, punctuating the launch with warm conversation and insider access.
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