Leyla Piedayesh is the woman behind beloved local label Lala Berlin, which started out as a knitwear line in 2004. Though the brand has grown to include a full range of women’s wear and accessories, her trademark Strickjacken (knitted jackets) and printed cashmere scarves are still present in her collections and worn by local ladies and celebrities alike.
What kind of woman do you design for?
Women who have an understanding of quality, who like classic styles but don’t conform to the norm and also want to dress in a modern way.
What are your favorite clothes shops in Berlin?
F95 (www. f95store.com) has a good selection of young, contemporary fashion; I also really like Cabinet (Quartier 206).
What three items should every woman have in her wardrobe?
A good woolen knitted jacket, comfortable skinny jeans and cool ankle boots.
Do you have a signature item you always wear or style you always adhere to?
I love loose-knit coats and jackets that you can wear for a casual look with jeans and a t-shirt but that can be dressed up with a skirt or dress.
Who is your style icon?
Tilda Swinton.
What is your most recent fashion purchase?
I bought myself a black leather bag by Swedish designer Ann-Louise Landelius and have worn it every day since. It goes well with everything, is the perfect size and is made of wonderful leather. I also recently invested in some leopard print jeans by Current/Elliot.
What are your tips for dressing for the Berlin winter?
The winter in Berlin is not only cold but also wet, so I would recommend a pair of strong shoes, such as those by Red Wing. Also a thick knitted jacket and a warm, cashmere scarf.
