Derek Lam is returning to the fashion label that carries his name, taking on the role of creative director at Derek Lam 10 Crosby as the New York-based contemporary brand prepares for a new chapter under NYC Alliance.
Lam founded Derek Lam 10 Crosby in 2011, creating the label as a contemporary extension of his wider design vision. Now, following NYC Alliance’s acquisition of the brand assets earlier this year, he is coming back to guide its creative direction.
The first collection under the new ownership and Lam’s creative leadership is scheduled for Fall 2027.
For Lam, the return is an opportunity to revisit the ideas that shaped Derek Lam 10 Crosby while giving the label a fresh direction. The brand has traditionally focused on American design, modern sophistication and versatile pieces designed for everyday wardrobes.
“It’s a pleasure to return to Derek Lam 10 Crosby,” Lam said, adding that he looks forward to building on the brand’s design philosophy while bringing a fresh perspective to its next chapter.
NYC Alliance sees Lam’s return as an important part of its plans for the label. Wen Huang, head of branding and marketing at NYC Alliance, said the company wanted to preserve the brand’s heritage and design DNA while developing products that reflect how consumers live today.
With NYC Alliance now at the helm, Derek Lam 10 Crosby is also expected to benefit from the company’s global distribution network, operational infrastructure and omnichannel capabilities. The plans include expanding the label’s product range, distribution and presence in new markets while maintaining its New York identity.
The move comes as Derek Lam’s fashion legacy continues to develop on two separate paths. His namesake Derek Lam brand, founded in New York in 2003, remains under Public Clothing Company, which acquired both Derek Lam and Derek Lam 10 Crosby in 2020. NYC Alliance later acquired the assets of Derek Lam 10 Crosby in a transaction completed on April 30 and announced in May.
Meanwhile, the mainline Derek Lam label returned to the New York Fashion Week calendar in February with its Fall/Winter 2026 collection under creative director Robert Rodriguez, marking its return to the official schedule after six years.
With Lam now back at Derek Lam 10 Crosby, the contemporary label is preparing to reconnect with its original design perspective while looking toward a new generation of customers.
