Lara Dee ArtistryLara Dee ArtistryLara Dee Artistry
ACS_1675_copy

"I believe in the power of upcycling, in breathing new life into discarded clothing, and in redefining the concept of fashion. Each piece I create contributes to a world where waste is reduced, ethical practices are celebrated, and style meets conscious consumption."

meet lara dee

Hello, I'm Lara Dee, a born artist, creator at heart, and a driving force behind Lara Dee Artistry. With a rich tapestry of experiences and a boundless passion for creativity, I created Lara Dee Artistry to combine the five things I am passionate about: art, fashion, graphic design, music and thrifting!

I specialize in upcycling second hand clothing by dying, painting, bookmaking and sewing methods. I then offer the items for sale and if the item does not sell, I will recycle it into a beautiful book cover for art journals which are made from leftover scraps of paper, boxes, old books, etc. I also will recycle it into handmade paper, bookmarks, coasters, keychains, labels and many more items.

My art is my voice, a means to face issues, express myself, and connect with others. Lara Dee Artistry is my journey of self-expression, influenced by artists like Barbara Kruger, Tiff Manuel, Aaliyah, and the enduring spirit of hip hop. It's my canvas for self-expression and a path to discovering who I truly am. Through my artistry, I aim to inspire your inner creativity and empower you to embrace your uniqueness with confidence.
upcycle_895baff7-3af8-4dbb-91c8-cf03631fe3af

slow fashion:
my personal journey

I've spent over a decade in the fashion industry. It was during this journey that I began to question my own unsustainable shopping habits. I witnessed the staggering waste generated by the fashion industry and felt compelled to create a business that encourages a shift in consumer behavior—one that emphasizes the importance of extending the life of our clothing. Many garments are discarded not because they're beyond repair, but because they've lost their shape, color, or appearance due to improper care. This is where change is needed, and it starts with embracing quality over quantity, choosing handmade over factory-made, and supporting local artisans over global conglomerates.

Each creation tells a story—from its origins to its transformation.

thriftingismytherapy

my thrifting obsession:
a lifelong passion

Thrifting has been a part of my life since high school, and it's not just a hobby; it's a way of transforming pre-loved items into unique pieces that reflect my design style. This passion seamlessly wove its way into my artwork and fashion, giving birth to Lara Dee Artistry. Every piece I hand-select, whether from thrift stores, closets, or generous donations, is chosen with care. I consider each piece's unique characteristics and determine the creative process that will breathe new life into it. My specialty lies in upcycling second-hand clothing, turning them into wearable works of art that defy the disposable nature of fast fashion.

"My mission is to empower individuals to upcycle their existing wardrobes rather than perpetuate the cycle of fast fashion."

I offer a wide range of visual identity services, including styling, photography, wardrobe organization, brand audits, social media layouts, and more. It's all about helping you shine in the highest quality representation of yourself, both online and in person.

A Multifaceted Creator
I wear many hats – designer, artist, maker, spray tan artist, photographer – but what sets me apart is my ability to help you embrace your true image and style, whether it's through clothing, photography, brand audits, or workshops.  

let's connect

IMG_3383-22-3
A little bit about me. I am a born artist, upcycler by trade, thrift-addict, schooled graphic designer and photographer and a professional visual identity coach. (Side note: I am against labels but realize I have to say something that will paint the picture of who I am and what I do, but if you really want to get to know me > Drop Me a Line Here

Raised and schooled in Ohio, became an entrepreneur in Chicago, lived freely while working in fashion in Los Angeles and am now based in Columbus, OH  + St. Petersburg, FL. I have a studio store at 400 W. Rich in Franklinton where you can find me bringing my second-hand fashion creations to life. I also do several pop-up markets all over Ohio and in St. Petersburg/Tampa, FL.

I still travel and have clients in Chicago and LA! So let me know if you are in the area and want to grab a coffee!

Top 15 Photographers columbus

Recognized as one of the top 15 photographers in Columbus by Snappr.
2024

Best Clothing Designer

Babe Crafted Awards
2023

Best Sustainable Fashion Designer

Babe Crafted Awards
2022

Designer showcase fashion show

Inspire The Bay (St. Pete)
Designer showcase fashion show for Inspire St. Pete.
2021

Top 15 Photographers LA

Snappr (LA)
Recognized as one of the top 15 photographers in Los Angeles.
2018

Top 15 Photographers Tampa

Recognized as one of the top 15 photographers in Los Angeles by Snappr.
2019-2023

Mark Wahlberg Cover Edit

24-Hour Fitness Magazine Cover Feature Mark Wahlberg (Photography Edit)
2017

National Recognition for Top Real Estate Website

REAL Trends Website Rankings - Baird & Warner (Chicago)
National Recognition for Top Real Estate Website Neighborhood Photography
2015

Billboard Magazine
Photography Feature

Billboard Magazine
Photography Feature for Nikki Lynette
2015
10

join my circular fashion movement

I'm deeply committed to making fashion circular and lowering the industry's carbon footprint. Together, we can take small but impactful steps toward a more sustainable future. It starts with choosing upcycled, repurposed, and reinvented pieces that celebrate individuality and environmental responsibility.

Lara Dee Artistry is more than a brand; it's a movement. I invite you to join me on this personal and artistic odyssey. Explore my creations, attend my workshops, and let's embark on this creative, sustainable journey together. 

Thank you for being a part of my mission to make the world a more beautiful and sustainable place, one hand-painted masterpiece at a time. Together, we can embrace the unique, celebrate individuality, and change the way we think about fashion.
6_9943a17d-e0e6-433c-81ba-a34e68b934d8
#SUPPORT LOCAL I strive to support small business and help drive the creativity in my cities.
Sunday,Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday
January,February,March,April,May,June,July,August,September,October,November,December
Not enough items available. Only [max] left.
Add to WishlistBrowse WishlistRemove Wishlist
Shopping cart

Your cart is empty.

Return To Shop

Add Order Note Edit Order Note
Estimate Shipping
Add A Coupon

Estimate Shipping

Add A Coupon

Coupon code will work on checkout page