Derek Lam returns to Derek Lam 10 Crosby as creative director

Derek Lam is returning to Derek Lam 10 Crosby as creative director, marking a new chapter for the New York-based contemporary fashion label following its acquisition by NYC Alliance in May.

Lam, who founded the brand in 2011, will oversee its creative direction as Derek Lam 10 Crosby prepares to relaunch under its new ownership. His appointment marks the first major step in NYC Alliance’s plans for the brand’s next phase, with the first collection under the new ownership and Lam’s creative direction scheduled to launch for Fall 2027.

“From the beginning, we had a very clear vision for Derek Lam 10 Crosby’s future. Bringing Derek back was central to that vision,” said Wen Huang, head of branding and marketing at NYC Alliance.

“No one understands the brand’s heritage and design philosophy better than its founder. Derek’s leadership will ensure the brand evolves with authenticity, honoring its original DNA while creating products that reflect how people live today. We are excited to partner with Derek as we build the next chapter of Derek Lam 10 Crosby together.”

Lam launched Derek Lam 10 Crosby as a contemporary extension of his broader fashion vision, with the label built around American design, modern sophistication and versatile wardrobe pieces. In his return, he will revisit those core principles while developing the brand for today’s consumer.

“It’s a pleasure to return to Derek Lam 10 Crosby,” said Lam. “I’m excited to work with the team at NYC Alliance as the Creative Director and I am looking forward to building on the design philosophy of Derek Lam 10 Crosby while bringing a fresh perspective to the brand’s next chapter.”

Under NYC Alliance’s ownership, Derek Lam 10 Crosby is set to leverage the company’s global distribution network, operational infrastructure and omnichannel capabilities. The new parent company plans to expand the label’s product offering, distribution channels and presence in new markets while retaining its New York identity and design direction.

The move comes several months after sister brand Derek Lam returned to the New York Fashion Week calendar in February with its Fall/Winter 2026 collection under creative director Robert Rodriguez. The show marked the mainline brand’s return to the official NYFW schedule after a six-year absence.

The two labels are now under separate ownership. Public Clothing Company, which acquired Derek Lam and Derek Lam 10 Crosby in 2020, retained the mainline Derek Lam brand, while NYC Alliance acquired the brand assets of Derek Lam 10 Crosby in a transaction completed April 30 and announced in May.

Derek Lam 10 Crosby was launched in 2011 as an advanced contemporary womenswear label, while the designer’s namesake Derek Lam brand was founded in New York in 2003.