V&Y Mart
An L.A. stylist debuts her statement-making line of repurposed t-shirt necklaces
When L.A.-based stylist Lauren Constantine needed more distinct accessories on set, she decided to make them herself. After several years of crafting one-off statement pieces, Constantine finally opened up shop, peddling two styles under her label V&Y Mart.
The V&Y neckpiece is comprised of upcycled t-shirts, ripped and twisted into a multifunctional scarf. Both a cozy cold weather accessory and bold face-framing necklace, you can wear the accessory year round, dressed up or down and adjusted with its hardware closure. Constantine explains, “It’s more important to me that clients celebrate their own sense of personal style and feel good in what they’re wearing, not just throw on a different trend each season.”
Putting her sewing skills to use, Constantine crafted a collection of bows she calls El Bow Co. She stuffs each with tulle, and they come in a variety of adorable fabrics and sizes spanning small to Minnie Mouse-style large.
“I’m really passionate about getting down with the sewing machine, and so any chance I have to do that is exciting,” says Constantine. “As a stylist, you hone skills as a visual artist—bring characters to life, create moods and make statements—which is really rewarding in and of itself. But, to bring wearable art to life and be a part of the creation process, from the initial swatch selection to the final stitch, is for me the biggest thrill.”
Bows span $22-36 and neckpieces sell for $58 from Constantine’s Etsy shop, V&Y Mart.
