Lala Berlin (Berlin, Germany)

I already posted about one store from my recent trip to Berlin and I have a few more I'd like to share, as proof that there is a lot of creative talent to be found in the German capital. As mentioned previously, most of these designers aren't necessarily internationally renowned, but the beauty of going to places like Berlin, Stockholm or Barcelona is discovering the local up-and-coming designers. Lala Berlin is pretty much 'up' already. Back when I still lived in Germany, this label was already getting plenty of media attention and a celebrity following. Unfortunately at the time there were only few stores that carried the brand and the label didn't have its own flagship yet.

A selection from the 2009 lookbook (images: Lala Berlin).

A lot has changed since then. The brand, who's name is derived from designer and founder Leyla Piedayesh's nickname, was created in 2003 by the former MTV VJ (she hosted their Designerama fashion programme) after a pair of hand-knitted wrist warmers she came across while browsing a flea market inspired her to start her own line of knits. She presented her first collection of knitwear in 2004 and the chic yet casual looks instantly became popular. These days, the high-end knits, made of quality wool and cashmere, along with her fine silk and soft cotton creations are typical elements of her seasonal collections. The colorful patterned cashmere scarves are a big hit as well and her celebrity following includes everyone from Claudia Schiffer or Lou Dillon to Misha Barton. Thankfully Lala Berlin is now stocked in well over 60 retail outlets around the world and since 2006 fans can also peruse these items in the label's only flagship in Berlin.

A great selection of scarves towards the entrance (left) and more jewelry & clothing near the shelves (right).

Views of the store windows from the inside. Loved the cute props and the red chiffon dress.

This was my first visit to the brand's own store and the one thing I've noticed about indie designers is that they tend to choose two distinct routes when it comes to designing their own boutique: there's either the cool, spartan and high-tech look or the loft-like, rustic decor which usually includes a fair amount of exposed brick walls and wooden floorboards. Lala Berlin is more unique than that and Piedayesh has been quoted as saying that her clothing isn't just defined by luxury but also by a sense of well being - the kind you get when snuggling up in a soft wool cardigan. The boutique reflects this as well: you'll see elements of luxury, such as the chandeliers or the sleek cash desk. But you'll also discover plenty of unique decor items, such as the white-washed wooden furniture and old-fashioned chairs, which give the interior a distinctly cosy and charming atmosphere - one that makes you want to hang around a bit longer.

Some of the necklaces I found. This was one of my favorite displays.

The first pieces I was drawn to when entering the store, was the small selection of jewelry hanging by the entrance wall. Most of these items consisted of delicate golden necklaces, although I later also found some funkier leather and silver pieces near the cash desk. The other thing I couldn't help noticing were the large number of cashmere scarves - many of them were hanging by another wall and plenty more could be found on shelves and in larger cabinets.

Some of the darker FW09 knits hanging by a brick wall partition.

More knitwear and silk items in a separate room. The ultra-glam mannequin head added a nice touch.

As expected, I found a lot of beautiful knitwear. Lala likes to emphasize that the quality of the fabric is of utmost importance to her, as is the way in which each garment is constructed. The FW09 collection was already out and if I had had a little more spending money , I would have happily bought some of the chunky cardigans and patchwork sweaters. I would have also gladly taken a few of the lovely scarves. In addition to the wool and cashmere pieces, there were plenty of floaty colorful chiffon items to choose from as well. These could be found in a separate room towards the left, which is where I also find a très chic mannequin head.

The little alcove (left) turned out to be a resting area, while the one on the right was the actual changing room.

I disocvered two more rooms, which housed odd props and mirrors.

My favorite discoveries though, were the small alcoves within the store, separated either by white wooden doors or brick walls. At first I mistook these for changing rooms, but they turned out to be either resting areas or merely served as decoration. It definitely made browsing here more interesting and more comparable to snooping around someone's very well-stocked house, rather than just shopping in another boutique.

So many scarves... and they were all incredible. I didn't know where to start...

The more rocker-chic jewelry could be found near the cash desk.

The two staff members I encountered were very kind and helpful, which just made the overall shopping experience that more enjoyable. If you don't get the chance to visit the boutique, I would still urge you to take a closer look at this brand, which will most likely get bigger and more popular in the near future. The FW09 and SS10 collections, which were presented during Berlin Fashion Week, both received much critical acclaim, so check out the stockists (on the official homepage), most of which can be found in Europe and the US. A smaller selection is available online as well, via Quartier Deluxe, Browns Fashion or Revolve Clothing.

FW09 RTW collection (images: Mercedes Benz Fashion Week).

SS10 RTW collection.

Address: Mulackstraße 7, 10119 Berlin
Opening Hrs: Mon-Fri: 12:00-20:00, Sat: 12:00-18:00
Lala Berlin Homepage