There’s no one who makes a sweater quite like Lisa Todd. The designer behind her namesake brand brings luxury with a wink to all her designs, making her offerings a staple in the closets of women around the globe—and right here in Palm Beach!
Lisa, why did you decide to launch your namesake brand?
It all began on a soul-searching elephant ride in Thailand. I had retail stores at the time that showcased many different brands. I saw a need for some not-so-serious luxury in the marketplace—and there on the elephant, I thought I’d try it myself!
Why the focus on sweaters?
Who doesn’t love a great sweater? It’s such a coveted piece.
Tell us about your background in fashion.
Since the age of 5, my grandmother read the newest issues of Vogue with me. My grandfather had a chain of department stores. This intro to designers inspired my love for quality and details. And my mother dressed in great style. She was, and still is, fearless with color!
Your pieces are anti-basic basics. What’s the one starter sweater you recommend to Spotlight readers?
This season I’m loving the Dash Cam crew neck cashmere sweater as a core piece. It’s a great anti-basic basic with a subtle surprise and play on color.
Who is your customer?
Honestly, we have such a diverse customer base, from ages 18 to 80! There’s something for everyone. At any age, our customer is one who appreciates originality, quality, and a “feel good” experience.
Florida is such a strong market for you. Why is that?
South Florida living is a big part of my life, so Florida vibes come naturally to me. We have a huge fan base here, and they help spread the Lisa Todd love around.
How has the brand evolved since you started it?
We started with just five sweater designs! Each collection is now 100-plus pieces, and beyond just cashmere and sweaters. We have fine-tuned our quality and fit. And while we’re always creating new, there’s a timeless aesthetic we’ve managed to capture. I look back at some beginning styles from 2012 and still love them.
How do you keep your designs fresh and exciting when focusing on one type of clothing?
It sounds cliché, and while it’s one primary focus, we really do pull inspiration from everywhere—travels, interior design, world events, the art world, sometimes even my favorite doughnut ends up on a sweater!
Could you ever see yourself expanding into other categories?
Yes, we’re dreaming big these days. Look for some surprise collabs coming up, and we have our eye on both a home collection and a younger sister brand.
Where can everyone shop your brand?
Of course you can shop the full collection at lisatoddnow.com. We’re also showcased in more than 500 luxury boutiques across the country, Canada and in the U.K. if you’re traveling!
What’s something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
While I’m fearless in combining colors in my collection, my work and living spaces are minimalist and neutral. It clears the path to dream in color!
What’s next for you and the brand?
It’s back to that “dreaming big” comment. I’m excited to bring this brand to new heights. We have an amazing following, and I know we can do so much more than just live in their closets. Moving into philanthropy and expanding our sustainability initiatives are top of mind as well.
