Light Bright: The Design Director Behind Lam & Mayle Breaks Out On His Own

Having held the design director post at both Mayle and Derek Lam, designer Jeffrey Monteiro seems to have chosen the right time to break out on his own (economy be damned!). Just two seasons old, his collection packs the sort of sincere optimism we all seem to need a shot of these days. Pale and sweet dresses are defined by rich black trim, a peasant-style maxi dress feels a bit edgy with cut-outs at the waist, and a simple denim sheath offers a hint of complexity with angular pleating. These are feminine works with a degree of seriousness. Do we see hints of Mayle and Lam throughout the collection? You betcha. Do we love where it's going though? Absolutely. No question, Monteiro is one to watch.