Derek Lam

Derek Lam, a native of San Francisco, began his fashion career in 1990 after graduating from Parsons School of Design. After twelve years spent at the highest levels of American fashion as a designer at Michael Kors, Lam launched his eponymous label in 2003.

Derek’s vision for his label is to create clothes that are both luxurious and wearable, with a feminine but unfussy beauty about them. His touch is especially sophisticated: modern but never cold, fantastical but always rational. His approach to travel is similarly refined, preferring hotels with character that is genuine and an approach to hospitality that could be described as classic.

JK Place
Florence, Italy
“A perfect gentleman’s retreat on the Piazza Santa Maria Novella.”

Hotelito Desconocido
Jalisco, Mexico
“A very sophisticated eco retreat situated between the most perfect, unspoiled Pacific beach and an estatuary which hosts a bird reserve. If you are into, or looking for, nature in its most sensual form, this is the place to go in style.”

Uma Paro
Bhutan
“In a country which admirably espouses a caretaker’s philosophy in regards to its ecology and preserving its unique culture, the Uma Paro is simple and luxurious while respecting the beauty of the land and its people.”

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong
Hong Kong
“Home away from home. I love that they preserved the lobby’s chic ’60s style, and that the renovated rooms maintained their original identity. It still feels very James Bond of the Sean Connery era. Love the Chinese restaurant on the top floor and high tea at the Clipper Lounge where you will see ‘le tout Hong Kong,’ the impeccable service and the classic views of the harbour.”

The Huntington Hotel & Nob Hill Spa
San Francisco, California
“On top of Nob Hill, one of the best family-owned hotels in the city. Really defines classic luxury and civility. Their new rooms are an absolutely perfect SF experience.”

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