Adam Lippes has built himself a fully fledged fashion brand from the inside out. Literally.
What started as a luxury t-shirt and underwear brand has, in a few short years and after a strategic name change, evolved into complete sportswear collections for men and women. This week, its first boutique opened in a space with a similarly humble past. It was most recently a day care facility for pets.
A lot of renovation and a glossy brick facing has turned the place into a sleek new showplace with wood and leather details and a back wall graced with a not-too subtle reference to Oprah Winfrey, whose early support for those silky cotton tees gave the line a critical boost.
While the original innerwear lines are still priced for the luxury minded, the newer apparel collections have kept their prices in check. A softly striped silk evening gown was priced under $500, though Lippes' past experience at Oscar de la Renta gives the line more polish than the price tags might suggest. The brand's first full runway show this past September was a favorite with critics and garnered a WWD cover the next day, a particularly impressive accomplishment for a contemporary collection. Pieces from that Spring show are already available in the shop including some of the vibrant striped separates inspired by artist Morris Louis. But don't worry, there's still cashmere for the early winter chill we are currently experiencing, and plenty of t-shirts.
Adam by Adam Lippes 678 Hudson Street Between 13^th & 14^th Streets, Meatpacking District
Previously: Hudson Street Heats Up: Adampluseve Adam by Adam Lippes to Open in September
also: Spring '08 New York Fashion Week: Triumphant Runway Debut â?¢ Adam Lippes