Juliana Canfield: A Knitting Enthusiast and Tony-Nominated Actor

Juliana Canfield, the Tony-nominated actor known for her roles as Jess on Succession and Holly in the Broadway musical Stereophonic, has recently discovered a new passion outside of the spotlight: knitting. While many actors might turn to other creative outlets during their downtime, Canfield has embraced the rhythmic craft of knitting, finding it both therapeutic and rewarding. Speaking at the Lafayette 148 New York presentation in Chelsea, she admitted, “I started about three weeks ago, so I have room to grow.” Despite her newcomer status, she has already successfully crafted a hot pink balaclava, which she proudly wears and has received compliments for. Her choice to begin with a balaclava rather than a scarf was intentional, as she humorously noted that scarves often become “pointless” and unwearable for new knitters. This humble yet ambitious approach to knitting reflects her down-to-earth personality and dedication to mastering new skills.

A Night in Chelsea: Celebrating Craftsmanship and Style

The event where Canfield shared her knitting journey was no ordinary gathering. It was a chic cocktail party hosted by Lafayette 148 New York, a brand renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship and timeless elegance. The fall collection, titled “Woven Stories,” was the centerpiece of the evening, showcasing textures, sumptuous fabrics, and wearable designs. Canfield, like many attendees, was captivated by the collection, exclaiming, “It’s textured and sumptuous and very wearable. I love everything.” The intimate setting allowed guests to admire the intricate details of the designs while mingling with fellow fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders.

The Creative Vision Behind Lafayette 148 New York

At the heart of the event was Emily Smith, the creative director of Lafayette 148 New York, who played host to the evening. Smith’s passion for fabrics is the cornerstone of the brand’s identity, and she shared her inspiration behind the “Woven Stories” collection. “The commitment to craft is really important to us as a brand,” she explained. “I have a deep passion for fabrics. It’s always been my starting point for everything: just letting the fabric tell you what it wants to be, and respecting it.” Smith also highlighted the brand’s long-standing collaboration with Italian mills and their in-house team of textile designers and skilled female handweavers. Over the years, this partnership has evolved, allowing the brand to develop unique fabrics that are both innovative and timeless.

The Fall Collection: A Celebration of Texture and Heritage

The “Woven Stories” collection is a testament to Lafayette 148 New York’s dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability. It features custom jacquards, fringed finishes, exposed seams, and hand-stitched embellishments, all crafted from responsibly sourced deadstock fabrics. The collection balances modern elegance with classic pieces, such as the perfect trench, an impeccable white shirt, and a softly tailored suit. One standout item from the collection is the handwoven, fringed suede and leather L-Tote in black, which quickly became a crowd favorite among attendees. The bag’s intricate design and luxurious materials embody the brand’s commitment to creating pieces that are both practical and visually stunning.

Rebecca Hall: A Fan of Artistic Traditions and Practical Luxury

Among the attendees at the event was actor Rebecca Hall, who stars in the new biographical drama Peter Hujar’s Day. Hall expressed her admiration for Lafayette 148 New York’s alignment with artistic traditions, particularly the historical role of women in weaving and textile arts. “There’s a culture of women weaving tapestries and all these different influences that I really love,” she said. Hall also praised the brand’s ability to create clothes that are not only luxurious but also wearable and practical for various occasions. While she may not share Canfield’s knitting skills—she jokingly admitted, “I can’t knit anything! I can barely darn a sock!”—she appreciates the craftsmanship and thoughtfulness behind each piece in the collection.

A Celebration of Craft and Connection

The evening in Chelsea was more than just a fashion presentation; it was a celebration of craft, creativity, and the connection between artists and their work. From Canfield’s knitting hobby to Smith’s passion for fabrics, the event highlighted the beauty of handmade craftsmanship in a world increasingly dominated by fast fashion. The “Woven Stories” collection, with its rich textures and timeless designs, serves as a reminder of the value of slow, intentional fashion. As attendees like Hall and Canfield admired the collection, they were not just seeing clothes—they were experiencing the stories, traditions, and dedication that went into creating each piece. In a world that often prioritizes speed over substance, events like this remind us of the power of craftsmanship to bring people together and inspire.