IWD 2026: Interview with Director Lauren Fermoile Murphy

In your own words: what does designing for women mean to you right now?
Getting dressed has always been a form of self-expression for me. A creative release that feels entirely personal, not just unique to each woman, but to each day, each occasion, every mood and season. What we choose to wear speaks before we ever do. You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but you should also illustrate your cover however you see fit. I find that form of creation so liberating.
To be a small part of that story, to create those pieces that help a woman feel confident and beautiful in a specific moment, is so empowering. I love unexpectedly spotting someone wearing one of my designs. It never feels ordinary; I am always so honored.
What has it meant to navigate the world of fashion design as a woman? Has your perspective shifted over time?
When I was younger, I was more focused on what my designs were supposed to say, which box each sketch needed to check. As I’ve grown into myself as a designer, I’ve learned to trust my instincts. The work feels more woven into my own life now: what I want to wear, what inspires me, what feels true.
A lot of pieces come from everyday experience: something I wished I’d personally found in the market the season before, a vintage find that sparks a new idea, seeing something styled in a way that feels new or most recently, renovating my home and falling down an interiors rabbit hole. It all finds its way in.

How has becoming a mother influenced the way you approach your work-creatively or otherwise?
Experiencing maternity dressing firsthand changed me as a designer. Going through something personally opens your eyes in a way nothing else does. It pushed me toward pieces that serve more than one purpose and work across a wider range of bodies at different stages of life. I believe our customer can truly see that evolution within the brand. Since the relaunch, our expanded focus into true ready-to-wear and the push for knit dressing has taken center stage. The response has been incredibly positive, and we are continuing to evolve.
I’m only five months into motherhood, so I’m still learning. But what’s become clear, and quickly, is that pieces need to be beautiful on their own and require almost no fuss. When something is effortless and a knockout at the same time, it removes the worry entirely. That’s the goal. It has to tell a complete story, through the design, the styling, and the complete narration behind every design. By the time I’m sketching a piece, I’m already planning how I’ll style it at the shoot. It starts that early.
