{NM Daily}

Conversation With: Lela Rose

Designer Lela Rose traveled to Atlanta to show her Spring collection at an event hosted by Danielle Rollins, a longtime friend from Dallas. Rollins is currently writing a book on entertaining, which will feature a dinner party with Rose, who is also a foodie and avid traveler.

NM: What was your approach to designing this collection?

LR: The Spring 2011 collection was inspired by Lima, Peru and the centuries-old weaving traditions that are so rich in Peruvian culture. I used many of the weaving techniques in  modern new ways, and I combined colors seen throughout Peruvian textiles.

NM: What are the consistent themes in your collection, season to season, and do you have any signature design elements?

LR: I consistently mix bold color and texture in every collection.

NM: Whose style inspires you?

LR: I am inspired by people in New York. I love how people here consistently dress, even when faced with inclement weather. My mother has also been one of my go-to style icons.

NM: What are your interests outside of fashion? What do you do for recreation?

LR: I love food, and to cook. I spend most of my extra time trying new restaurants, combing through spice stores and at the greenmarket, figuring out how to cook heirloom vegetables that I have never seen before.

NM: Any recent travels or travel plans?

LR: I am headed to Spain at the end of May for a culinary tour of San Sebastian where we are eating at many 4 star restaurants I have always wanted to try. This trip is being capped off with a final farewell meal at El Bulli. I have never been before, and this is truly my food mecca!

Shop Lela Rose.