Today we’d like to introduce you to Cristina Maingrette.
Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, I would watch and help my aunt customize her clothing for all occasions. She would turn simple pieces into whole different outfits by adding beads, painting, and sewing. As I got older I started doing the same thing. I always wanted my outfits to be different than everyone else. That meant having to be creative and custom my own clothes. With my brand LA MAINGRETTE, I decided to merge my art with my love for fashion. Each piece is handmade and unique, like an art piece. I believe the same applies to people. Everyone is different and unique in their own way like a piece of art which is where “WE ARE ART WE WEAR ART” stems from.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think everyone that has a small business can relate to having to wear multiple hats. Having a sustainable business in a time where everything is so fast-paced is challenging. A lot of time and details are put in every one of my design and at times people don’t appreciate or see that. I am grateful for my friends and family that constantly push me and everyone that supports my brand. It’s a constant reminder of why I started and why should keep going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Growing up in Haiti I would see artists transform anything into a masterpiece. Metal, Plastic, rubber trash you name it would be turned into something beautiful. I wanted my brand to reflect that as well, I take pride knowing that my brand is ethical and sustainable. Everything is made with upcycled and/or eco-friendly materials. Our goal is to create something that makes you feel unique without being wasteful but instead helpful to the environment. I focus on clothing and accessories like bucket hats and bags. I love to design with denim and canvas but who knows what I will be doing next.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I have a bachelor’s degree in Accounting
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lamaingrette.com
- Instagram: lamaingrette
Image Credits
Sabrina Fazai
