Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Malasko.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I’ve always had a strong sense of personal style, looking back, my mom would say it really started with my prom dress. I wasn’t thrilled with any of the dresses I’d seen until I found this vintage powder blue prom dress at a thrift store. I begged my Mom to buy it. I knew that it was definitely out style. However, I also knew I had a vision. If I removed the sleeves, the lace, and fixed the length; it would be perfect! She thought I was crazy, but she reluctantly bought me the dress anyway. The dress turned out amazing, and I ROCKED it.
Ever since I’ve been combining new and old objects in one way or another. For years, I worked as an Interior Designer in San Francisco where I honed my talent for pairing fabrics with trims and transforming spaces. I have been fortunate enough to be able to travel around the world throughout my life, and it was my first trip to India that inspired me to start LA LO LA. I was completely taken in by the richness and beauty of India’s vintage saris. The colors were so beautiful, vivid and alive. I knew I found exactly what I was looking for. I thought it would be incredible to transform these beautiful saris, rich in history and meaning, into something modern and wearable.
Please tell us about your art.
I hand-select vintage saris pairing them individually with unique trims transforming them into a modern, luxurious one-of-a-kind resort wear collection. I design our pieces with travel and versatility in mind. Our kaftans, kimonos, jackets, and cover-ups are lightweight, easily packable, and can go from poolside to dinner.
I feel like there is a need and market for one-of-a-kind resort wear at an attainable price point, which sets us apart from other companies.
We started as a silk line primarily for spring and summer but introduced a winter cashmere collection last year. I focused on classic styles and incorporated suede fringe and trims. I drew inspiration from two of my favorite destinations – Santa Fe and Vail. The winter line features luxurious cashmere wraps, capes, and ponchos that are perfect for travel. After all, who doesn’t love the softness and warmth of cashmere?
What do you think about the conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
Earning a living as an artist has always been challenging, thankfully, in recent years we’ve seen a renewed interest in quality craftsmanship. I would encourage everyone to shop locally and support local artists and markets.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can always shop us online at www.lalolaclothing.com and see our new styles on Instagram, @love_lalola.
In Texas, you can find us at Julian Gold, Loma De Vida at La Cantera Resort & Spa, The Garden Room, Westlake Dermatology, Schors Austin, Sikara & Co., The Grand Fayette Hotel, and Spa Django at The Hyatt Lost Pines.
Outside of Texas, you can find us at Mii Amo Spa in Sedona, The Four Seasons Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North, and Santa Fe’s Malouf’s on the Plaza, along with other respected retailers.
And for all the Round Top lovers, we will be back at Arbor Antiques March 27th thru April 6th with some exciting new styles!!!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lalolaclothing.com
- Phone: 512-791-7035
- Email: leah@lalolaclothing.com
- Instagram: @love_lalola
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lalolaclothing/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/lalolaclothing/
Image Credit:
Cashmere Photos: Diana Ascarrunz Photography
Silk Photos: Leah Malasko
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
