Introducing Nili Lotan: Casual & Cool, Clean & Simple

When I introduce a new line in a big way to either of my stores it isn’t without a lot of forethought and consideration. Usually the decision is to fill a void in what we offer and a need that our customers have expressed. One thing that I kept hearing was that women wanted something to wear that wasn’t denim but wasn’t dress pants. The more I looked at our offerings I realized they were right. I think our denim game is strong with Mother, Citizens, and some Veronica Beard thrown in for good measure. As for dressier pants, you can’t go wrong with the Veronica Beard scuba pant, Tibi has amazing wide leg options, and Rag & Bone has perfected its stretch fabric Simone pant.

source: Instagram

But what about the in-between? Or if you don’t want to wear shorts? Well, I think I have found the answer: Nili Lotan. Started in 2004, by now 60-year-old Nili, the line embodies her laid-back style and sophistication. She splits her time between Tel Aviv and New York City. Her designs are inspired by her time in the Israeli Air Force. After serving, she attended Shenkar Fashion Institute in Tel Aviv, where she met former Lanvin designer Alber Elbaz. She then moved to New York where she worked with Liz Claiborne, Nautica, and Ralph Lauren, the house which became her biggest influence.She credits her time at Ralph for teaching her about treating garments before they reach the consumer. She pre-washes and almost “beats up” some of her fabrics to give them that feeling of having already been worn.Her collection is no fuss and not a lot of fanfare. It is clean and simple lines, beautiful fabric and quality construction.She considers her line a laundry list of basics. I would like to check off every item on this list and add it to my wardrobe. Casual and cool, these are clothes you can live in. We are starting with her pants and this fall, you should look for some additional pieces.