Art is a universal language spoken by all of humanity. Artist can come from anywhere and so can their inspiration! Some see the beauty in a sunset over a mountain range while others can picture a perfectly chiseled greek god in a block of marble. For Leah—like the Star Wars princess—inspiration came from an old couch on the side of the road.
Originally out of New York, Leah and her partner Lior—the owner and creator of LK Straps—started the business by transforming old leather couches that were doomed for the dump into bass and guitar straps. It was not long until Leah saw the potential to turn this scrap furniture into creations of her own, and in 2021 Emboldxnthepeople was born!
Leah’s creations are meant to be versatile. “I make things not to fit a particular style or aesthetic, but to simply create and let everyone style it in a way that feels true to themselves.” From cuffs, belts, and collars to corsets and full body harnesses, the creative opportunities know no bounds! Some of the art can appeal to the young punk in us all, sporting neon colors and spikes. Other pieces can appeal to those who like the more industrial look with criss-crossed chains and heavier metal inlays. Even if you don’t think you have a “style,” the accessories and outfits Leah makes are meant to be a tool for expressing your own authenticity—be creative, be unique, be powerful, be YOU!
From the moment you put on an item that Leah created you can feel the love she puts into her work. “When you choose to invest in a product that has a strong message and ethics behind it, that item has more personal meaning and value to you and can be cherished on a deeper level… I hope to offer something that the customer can hold onto and feel connected to forever, in both its quality and their relationship to the art.”
More importantly, EmboldxnThePeople is environmentally friendly! All of the leather used to make the outfits and accessories comes from abandoned or dilapidated couches. “Microtrends are bigger than ever and its creates a throwaway culture.” By creating pieces that are meant to be worn and re-styled over and over, you are doing your part and not contributing to the growing landfills that are flooded by the fast fashion industry. Even tho Leah has a zero-waste mindset, it is important to remember that no one is perfect. “It can be overwhelming to think about being ethical, but there are no absolutes! We all slip up, and it’s about staying on that path of growth and doing what we can no matter how small it may seem.”
Just like art, EmboldxnThePeople is meant for EVERYONE! Every item in Leah’s shop is made to be highly adjustable, embracing all people and bodies, encouraging everyone to express themselves however they want. Even if your body has gone through changes over time, Leah will adjust your piece to fit you so that you are able to express yourself comfortably and confidently, no matter what!
The message is clear, “[My] creations are for EVERYONE! I aim to represent everyone and celebrate all people and bodies and individuals!” EmboldxnThePeople is not a brand, but a community. “The goal is to empower each person in expressing their own unique individuality, and to celebrate that individuality within the collective. Every one of us has something special to offer, and by embracing our own authenticity as well as the unique strengths and beauty of the people around us, we can come together and show up for one another to build an even stronger and more supportive, cohesive, and diverse community.”
