From the brand’s inception in 2003, its first store and atelier opening at 188 Duane St in 2006, to further expansion throughout the 2010s, Nili Lotan has remained a stalwart of the New York fashion scene that keeps a close eye on its roots. Today marks a further step in the history of this New York brand, as Nili Lotan celebrates the opening of its first menswear store across the street from its original Tribeca establishment.
The Lower Manhattan neighborhood of Tribeca sits at the heart of everything Nili Lotan is about. It’s an intimate area, shaped by history, where Lotan and her partner David Broza have lived for many years. When that first store opened back in 2006, Lotan wanted it to act as a community space, a bridge between work and home. Eighteen years later that vision remains, as the men’s store opens across the street at 183 Duane St, the two destinations are set to work together as a creative destination for locals and visitors alike.
The ideals with which Lotan designs pieces remain much the same as they did in 2003: “Clothes should be clean, sophisticated, and functional, offering elements for self-expression.” When seen in the flesh, this results in a blend of rock ‘n’ roll, 70s Yves Saint Laurent, uniform dressing and Americana that reverberates with the dynamism one would expect from an NYC-based designer.
The menswear follows much the same direction. Looking to step away from the concept of fashion, the most recent collection takes its cues from the spirit and sensibility of Bob Dylan, a mixture of classic cool and rock n’ roll nonchalance, with an added element of refinement.
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The store itself been designed as a homage to the love between both Lotan and Broza,with their shared interests being reflected throughout the space. The new menswear store is adorned with Nili Lotan’s classic garment racks, inspired by Marcel Breuer’s tubular steel chair, these racks perfectly fitting Lotan’s functional ethos.
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There’s also an espresso bar, which reflects the space’s desire to become a social, community-focused environment where people gather. Hand-picked antiques and artwork, including photographs by Allan Tenenbaum and Dudi Hasson dot the walls, while mid-century bookshelves house an ever-changing collection of books, ceramics and vinyl—all of which are for sale. There’s even a record player and headphones that allow visitors to tune into the sounds that inspire Lotan and Broza, from Dylan and the Stones to Hendrix and Patty Smith.
There’s also a specific community space outside, where clients can relax and enjoy local favorites like coffee from Frenchette alongside Lotan’s homemade cookies and bars. At this store, everything is considered, adding to the ambiance and creating a vibe that’s distinctly Nili Lotan.
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Lotan and Broza are also using the store as a method of raising funds for one of their favorite charities, One Million Guitars, which provides instruments and education for children around the world. A contribution from each purchase is being made to the charity.
Having opened in late August, the new Nili Lotan menswear store is still settling into its new neighborhood. However, a block party attended by New Yorkers from the worlds of art, fashion and culture should speed things along.
The new NYC Nili Lotan menswear store is at 183 Duane St, New York.
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