The Best Fashion Launches of December 2022

Who: La DoubleJ

What: Caffe Roma takeover and Roman Holiday homeware collection

Where: Caffe Roma in Little Italy, NYC; homewares also available online at ladoublej.com

Why: If you’ve been to New York City’s Little Italy and you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, chances are you’ve heard of Caffe Roma. The neighborhood institution has been serving up traditional Italian sweets for over 100 years, and this month, Milanese label La DoubleJ is taking over for a celebration of maximalist proportions. The eccentric and bright patterns of the renowned resortwear brand inspired a “Roman Holiday” line of plates, cups, and tablewares that are best enjoyed with a slice of panettone and an espresso, or the special cookie set the brand and restaurant collaborated on. Because what is Christmas without a heavy dose of sugar?

Who: Marimekko

What: Store opening in Soho, NYC

Where: 97 Wooster Street, NYC

Why: If shipping delays and general malaise are making online shopping feel more like a chore than anything, rediscover your love for perusing items IRL with the new experimental Marimekko flagship in the heart of New York City’s Soho neighborhood. The brand’s signature quirky patterns aren’t in the store design, as the space provides a minimal, industrial setting for community activations, new collections, and a springboard for new ideas. Shoppers will find the usual assortment of RTW and accessories, plus a smattering of Scandi homeware and décor that is hygge in the best way possible.

Who: Copenhagen Fashion Week

What: Fall/winter 2023 brand lineup

Where: Online at copenhagenfashionweek.com

Why: Copenhagen Fashion Week has quickly become a go-to for the style set to discover cult brands like Ganni (pictured here) and Rotate on the runway, and cool-as-hell Scandi style on the street. For fall/winter 2023, the calendar includes veteran and new names alike—all joined by the ethos of sustainability. “The reason that this band lineup is so exciting is not only because it showcases the best of Nordic design, but also because it marks a milestone for Copenhagen Fashion Week, as the brands have been screened to the Minimum Standards,” CPHFW CEO Cecilie Thorsmark exclusively tells ELLE.com. “After a successful screening, both from a fashion design perspective and from a full value chain perspective, this edition will clearly show that creativity and impact doesn’t have to be subordinated by brands’ ambitions to act responsibly.” Mark your calendars for January 31 to February 3!

Who: Ghurka

What: The Daily II No. 304 Tote

Where: Online at Ghurka

Why: Any handbag collector worth their salt will know the name John Truex. As one half of the New York-based brand Lambertson Truex, he created some of the most iconic carryalls of the ’90s. For the last few years, Truex has also taken the reigns as creative director of Ghurka, the Norwalk, Connecticut based leathergoods company whose handcrafted safari chic wares are beloved by those in the know. The lastest addition to the range, the Daily II No. 304 tote, is available in classic leather and a limited edition plaid wool perfect for lugging gifts (or anything, really) this holiday season and beyond.