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Inspiration
12th Jun '25
| By The Wolf & Badger Team
The founder of James Lakeland shares the inspiration behind the brand, rooted in a lifelong admiration for Italian tailoring and a desire to create timeless, elegant, and practical clothing for modern women.
Drawing inspiration from art, nature, and architecture, James Lakeland create collections that reflect the highest level of dedication to tailoring and craftsmanship. With each piece designed to empower its wearer and endure for decades to come, the brand continues to stay true to their values of quality, integrity, and innovation.
We sat down with the founder of James Lakeland to discuss the inspiration behind the brand, rooted in a lifelong admiration for Italian tailoring and a desire to create timeless, elegant, and practical clothing for modern women.
1
What drove you to create your brand? Where did the idea come from?
From a young age, I was drawn to the transformative power of fashion—how it could shift a person’s mood, confidence, even how they carried themselves. Growing up, I admired the quiet elegance of Italian tailoring and wanted to create something that honoured that heritage, but in a way that felt relevant to modern life. The brand was born from a simple idea: women deserve clothes that are as strong, elegant, and adaptable as they are. I saw a gap for pieces that combined refinement with ease—things you could wear all day, feel incredible in, and keep for years
2
What did the initial design process look like, and how has it evolved?
In the early days, everything was very hands-on. I would sketch designs, handpick fabrics, and work side-by-side with our artisans in Italy. It was a labour of love. Today, while we’ve embraced technology and become more efficient, the attention to detail hasn’t changed. We now use digital tools for precision, and we’re exploring innovative, sustainable materials. But at its heart, the process is still about creating pieces with integrity—beautifully made, thoughtfully designed, and built to last
3
What inspires your designs? Any pieces that hold special meaning for you?
Every design begins with the woman in mind—her lifestyle, her pace, her need for pieces that move with her. I focus on versatility and timelessness rather than trends. One design that stands out is our signature tailored wool coat. It was one of the first pieces we created, inspired by traditional Italian craftsmanship. It quickly became a bestseller and still returns each season because it just works—elegant, sharp, and endlessly wearable. It’s a symbol of everything the brand stands for
4
How would you describe your customer?
She’s confident, self-assured, and effortlessly chic. She knows the value of well-made clothing and doesn’t buy into fast fashion. Our customers are from all over the world—particularly the UK, Australia, China, and Dubai—but they share a common appreciation for quality, style, and longevity. Many of them have been with us for years, and that loyalty means everything.
5
Is there someone you'd love to see wearing your designs?
Honestly, it’s always a joy seeing someone wear our designs with confidence. Whether it’s a public figure or someone walking down the street, it's about how they make the piece their own. I’m most inspired by women who lead with strength and grace—who dress for themselves and wear each piece with purpose.
6
If you could wear just one piece from your collection, what would it be?
A beautifully structured coat. It’s the ultimate finishing piece—timeless, polished, and endlessly versatile. It pulls everything together and instantly elevates whatever you’re wearing underneath.
7
What’s your favourite thing about running the brand? Any unexpected perks? The best part?
Seeing someone light up in something we’ve created. That moment never gets old. A lovely perk has been how much I continue to learn—about design, business, people. And visiting our Italian manufacturers is always a highlight. It’s work, yes, but it’s also a reminder of why I started this journey: the beauty of craft, the passion behind the process, and let’s be honest—the countryside isn’t bad either.
8
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Stay true to your vision, but stay open. The industry moves fast, but authenticity, paired with a willingness to evolve, is what keeps you grounded and relevant.
9
What are your brand’s core values, and how do they shape your work?
Craftsmanship, quality, and timeless design are our pillars. But we’re also deeply committed to doing better—for our customers and for the planet. Whether it’s through ethical sourcing, responsible production, or waste reduction, we’re constantly looking for ways to evolve while staying true to who we are.
10
Where do you see the brand in five years?
I see us continuing to grow, reaching new audiences while deepening our commitment to sustainability. Expanding our digital presence is a big focus, as is nurturing our global community. Ultimately, I want James Lakeland to remain a name that stands for elegance, longevity, and integrity.