If you haven’t already checked out Lezley Anne’s new storefront in downtown Ypsilanti, walk-in. Leslie Austin (owner, creator and seamstress) opened the space around the start of the year and it immediately impresses as a working studio. The day I visited Leslie was at her sewing machine. Racks of recent designs hung ready to wear in addition to partially finished designs on the tables and racks behind her.
Several comfy couches form a chatting area for relaxing, think tanking or spectating as pieces were pulled and reviewed. Not only are the clothing designs fun and often eco-friendly there seems to be something for every body style.
You may already know Leslie Austin’s name or face. She and her husband, artist David Austin, have been Ypsi supporters for years now having owned What is that Gallery of Fine Art and Craft and Leslie was the force behind the fashion show Dressed on Washington Street hosted in the spring of 2009 which showcased local design talent. She designs and creates most of what you see in the store many of which are one-of-a-kind pieces. You can even make requests and Leslie will accomodate when she can. Leslie has been working with Jenice Pettibone to promote the store and her creations and Jenice came up with the idea of stepping-out with a “street team” to various events and clubs around town dressed in Leslie’s designs. The result is a lot of street cred when other party goers ask ‘Where did you get that skirt, dress etc…?’. Great publicity.
Again, don’t think her store services only those who take a size 4 for granted. She runs the gammet on cuts and sizes utilizing new and re-issued materials that she picks up from sources all around Michigan. As for Leslie herself, they don’t come any nicer. She loves her craft and is happy to chat when you stop-in.
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