Wearing a face shield, and no idea what I was doing.

A block of wood turned into pieces to create my conceptual design. Band saws, electric sanders, drill presses, and blow torches — a real departure from my sewing machine capabilities.

First step was to sketch the idea, of course I had to bring along supplies for what I thought I wanted to create.  Just like when I create a garment, I typically sketch first.

The tools, a simple block of wood which would turn into many blocks, then shape and create.

The end result needed to rest. Her entry into the world was a bit challenging.

When I got home to my own workroom, I adjusted her more to my liking.

Note the details, lazer cut metal belt adorned with vintage buttons, 3D handbag, sunglasses made from photographic negative circa 1980, vintage kid gloves, and vintage fur buttons, 

As the President of Anderson Ranch put it — this was about the experience, not the product. I’m embracing that thought. After all, my thought process has changed and I’d bet what comes after it will too.

One of the interesting parts of the workshop was when the teacher asked me to help 2 high school students create their marionette’s pants.  I took to the task by showing them how to cut the shape, thread the sewing machine and stitch them together.  It is my hope that both of them took away new knowledge that will affect their future whatever that may be.

Here I am with both high school students.  I loved helping and educating others.

Appropriate sparks flying, suggesting how with freedom of art anything is possible, especially the week before July 4 in America.

That’s me

When you hit challenges in your own work, how do you deal with them? I jump in…….

The post Meet Sylvia, from conceptual design to my handmade marionette appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Upcycling is not recycling. It is not thrifting. It is not alterations.

Upcycling is taking something that already exists — something worn, forgotten, or unused — and transforming it into something of greater value. Greater beauty. Greater purpose.

It is sustainable fashion at its highest form. And at Brooks LTD, it is deeply personal.

No new fabric required — or when it is, it comes from my curated collection of sustainable textiles. Just vision, skill, and intention.

That means a pair of pants becomes a custom jacket. A vintage tablecloth becomes a botanically dyed summer dress. Something you stopped reaching for becomes the thing you can’t stop wearing.

Every Brooks LTD piece is one of a kind. Handcrafted. Designed with a deep respect for textile and craft. Because upcycled fashion is not a trend here — it is the foundation.

Upcycled from a pair of pants. Because she loved the fabric more than the pant.

That is a Vision Session.

The Vision Session is my reimagining service — bringing fresh creative vision to something you already own. You bring what you have. I bring the design.

This is not alterations. This is redesign.

Craft is the design.

Interested in yours? DM me.

The post What is upcycling? appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Do you know the difference between vintage vs thrifted?  Let me explain…..with rising costs and new tariffs affecting retail prices, many of you are discovering the world of thrifting and vintage shopping. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there’s an important distinction worth understanding.

Vintage is about age and style—items that are at least 20-30 years old and represent the fashion, design, or cultural aesthetic of a particular era. These pieces are sought after for their quality, craftsmanship, and iconic style.

Thrifted describes how you acquired something—by shopping at thrift stores, consignment shops, or secondhand retailers. Thrifted items can be any age, from recent pieces to genuine vintage finds.

The distinction matters because vintage usually implies higher value due to age and style significance, while thrifted emphasizes affordability and sustainable shopping practices.

My Journey with Vintage Textiles

I’m passionate about the vintage side of secondhand textiles. There’s something magical about finding a special fabric that has been cherished by its past owners—people who also understood the importance of saving and reusing beautiful things.

I’m fortunate to have clients, friends, and family who appreciate this philosophy and want to be part of the journey. That’s why I created The Attic Gem Collection— modern designs made from vintage textiles that honor both past craftsmanship and contemporary style(be sure to click on the link to see the original collection).  Each piece tells a story. These aren’t just clothes; they’re heirlooms in the making—items you can cherish and pass down through generations, continuing the cycle of appreciation for quality textiles.

Below is a piece that I made in early 1970 that a friend/client, found while she was vintage shopping. Funny story we had lunch one day and she was wearing it wondering if I would recognize the piece!  Of course that is the first thing I noticed.  You can imagine my face lighting up when I saw the piece on her!!  These moments are what make what I do so worth it.   See a post here.

Here is a piece that I’ve repurposed into modern jacket that my client is now wearing from her cherished textiles.  See the video here.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

Do you have a special textile waiting for new life? Whether it’s a cherished family piece or a vintage find you’re not sure how to use, I’d love to help transform it into something perfect for your current lifestyle.

No project is too small. Every unique piece of cloth deserves to be touched, understood, and transformed into something as beautiful as the fabric itself.

Ready to give your vintage textile new purpose? Reach out today and let’s discuss how we can honor your fabric’s history while creating something uniquely yours.

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“The Art of Simplicity is indeed an art. It appears effortless but requires tremendous expertise to execute well. In design, true simplicity is a refined skill. It comes only through deep understanding and disciplined practice.

Stripped to essential elements, good design maintains purpose and beauty. It achieves timeless quality. I confirmed this thinking during a Kintsugi exercise at a retreat. This Japanese art repairs broken pottery with gold. It embraces imperfection as part of an object’s beauty.

My philosophy creates simple designs with just the right flair to last a lifetime. It’s about knowing what to keep and what to remove. Each element must serve a purpose while celebrating imperfection’s beauty.

Read more about my philosophy: it’s never too late to make imperfection beautiful. 

Thank you to The Lotus Network Experience to have me as one of the Lotus Ladies.

Photo: Jennifer Lord Photography

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The Art and Ethics of Clothing Repair

This photo shows my husband’s hoodie of Character in Worn threads. Teaching myself how to embroider a heart, titled “Be Still My Heart,” with my dog looking on curiously.

Memories last a lifetime; clothing needs repair. Each stitch tells a story of preservation—not just of the fabric, but of the moments woven into it.

In an era of fast fashion and disposable clothing, a countermovement is gaining momentum that celebrates the authentic beauty of worn garments. The New York Times recently highlighted this trend, noting that “the stains and the rips add character and help them stand out from the bland flatness of new clothes.”

The Distressed Clothing Paradox

This growing appreciation for worn clothing is creating an interesting paradox in the fashion world. While some embrace the sustainability of extending a garment’s life through repair, others have commercialized the aesthetic. Boutiques in New York are now renting distressed clothing for hundreds of dollars per weekend—commodifying an appearance that traditionally came from authentic use and wear.

The irony isn’t lost on those who’ve been practicing clothing repair out of necessity or environmental consciousness. What was once considered a sign of poverty or neglect is transformed into a high-end fashion statement, with manufactured distress commanding premium prices.

This was once a torn hole in the sleeve, I stitched it together and then added decoration to highlight it.

 The Psychology of Worn Clothing

Our relationship with worn clothing is complex. Research in consumer psychology shows that visible wear can trigger multiple reactions:

– Nostalgia and attachment to garments that have accompanied us through significant life experiences

– Anxiety about social perception and the cultural messaging around “newness”

– Pride in sustainability choices and rejecting consumer culture

– Identity expression through the unique character of personally modified clothing

The resurgence of appreciation for worn and repaired clothing represents a shift in these psychological patterns—moving from shame about wear to celebration of a garment’s journey.

This is what began as an exploration but then continued into a much deeper dive into decoration, see the photo below

*What shifts might we see in the fashion industry if repair and reuse became the norm rather than the exception?*

Hand stitching to cover up tattered and torn fabric.

I will continue to add to this piece probably until it is totally covered in stitches which gives the textile strength.

The post The Character in Worn Threads appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Enjoy go-to unique pieces when you open your closet doors.

Collaborating

Collaborating wearable art is inspiring, eye-opening, and fun. Lately, fun has taken the top spot on my list. Let me introduce you to Madeleine from Madeleine O’Connell Art.  Madeleine is a creative and talented painter and illustrator.  A mutual friend thought we would make a great team. Collaborating for a May 2024 pop-up at my Denver atelier and continung with another seasonal pop-up.

Hand painted on eco-friendly textiles

We enliven eco-fabrics with art and fashion, creating wearable masterpieces that are sustainable wearable art.  The result is a collection of whimsical, one-of-a-kind pieces that not only stand out for their distinctive designs but also for their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Collections

Our collaborative efforts have yielded a captivating autumn/winter collection that embraces the essence of cooler seasons, blending comfort with style in a harmonious array of pieces. These Artisanal hand painted designs range from delicate brushstrokes to bold splashes of color. Wearable art qualities  that captures the imagination and elevates the entire collection.

The collections are thoughtfully designed oversized silhouettes that embrace and flatter a diverse range of body types, creating a truly inclusive line. Generous cuts and strategically placed drapes offer comfortable ease without sacrificing style, allowing wearers to adjust the fit to their liking. Relaxed shoulders and armholes provide freedom of movement, while adjustable waistlines allow for personalized shaping.

Our creative synergy as kindred spirits ignites a boundless exploration of imagination and style. As a result, this collaborative journey not only pushes the boundaries of our artistic vision but results in pieces that radiate an infectious joy. Each garment we create is infused with the excitement of our shared creative process.  The  designs spark that same sense of delight and wonder in those who wear them.

In addition, we don’t want to show up wearing cookie-cutter clothing.  We are ageless beauties showing up in our own purposeful style.

We have unique voices that need to be heard, and expressing ourselves through how we dress is a perfect way to make an impression.

Madeleine and I showing off our second collaborative designs.  She creates her art on fabrics and I design and make the garment.

Reach out if interested in the collection currently not on the web site, DM is best.

Brooks Luby/BrooksLTD

Madeleine O’Connell/MadeleineO’ConnellArt

The post Wearable art that is timeless appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

In fact Betty will wear both pieces again, which is a testmament to the timeliness of my pieces.

Betty is a bad ass and we had a great time collaborating.

Timeless jacket style will be worn again and again with wardrobe choices already in her closet.

Working with Betty to create this look gave me so much joy.

Meet Betty

Betty is an avid traveler, very athletic, likes to swim with the dolphins, follow Bruce Springsteen wherever he may land and is curious about many things.  She has many hobbies and is an artist in her own right.  When her son announced his engagement, she was thrilled.   Since she is athletic, she wanted to emphasize her good form, posture and cover her arms as she gets cold.   One of the requirements was a certain color of blue.  Moreover, when you are restricted, it becomes a daunting task not to mention dresses are hard to fit and a bit confining for those who like to move with grace and ease.

After much research Betty reached out to me, came to the atelier and tried on several prototypes.   She asked if a full tulle skirt would be appropriate for a Mother of the Groom for a luxurious Chicago wedding venue.    Of course, I said yes and we were off and running.  She chose a short, cropped jacket(part of my prototypes) with a back flared detail in a specific color of blue silk shantung.  For the skirt (another prototype) we worked together to determine the layers of colors of tulle to create depth and interest when she walked down the aisle.  It was like layering paints on a canvas to come up with just the right mixture.

New Look, custom artful wearable

I like to think of this ensemble as a spin-off of Dior’s 1950’s design called the New Look 

.

My design is different as I am a firm believer in comfort first.  Betty’s jacket was tailored to her figure, and skimmed her body in just the right places so when she moved the jacket moved with her.  If she lifted her arms to hug her friends, the jacket moved with her.  When she danced the skirt was a delight to maneuver in.  It was playful and whimsical.

Problem Solving

I am in the business of helping humans with solving problems in how they want to dress.  Betty had some ideas, I listened and with that we came up with the most comfortable appropriate ensemble where Betty got compliments all evening from both peers and her son’s friends.

At her son’s wedding reception, Betty was touched by an unexpected compliment in the ladies’ room. A friend of her son’s stopped her, and commented:  “Betty, your outfit is stunning,” the young woman gushed. “When I get married, I want my mother to look as cool and comfortable as you.” Betty felt a warm glow of pride by this kind gesture.

It’s always nice to feel that age is not a factor when dressing for important events and still achieve comfort and style along with elegance wearing classic designs.

Reuse

I trust Betty will separate the pieces as an additional way to include them in her wardrobe.  Her exuberant display when we had our fittings is apparent in the photograph below.

We believe that to reuse is an important feature to cherish pieces while keeping them out of the landfill.  Its a win win situtation.

Working with Betty and others who appreciate attention to details with an artistic flaire where collaborating and having a creative experience is what we have become known for.

Reach out here if you are interested in working with us.  

The post Custom Wearable Art Fashion appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Step into a realm where creativity knows no bounds. Our brand is a symphony of design, technique and meticulous attention to detail. Each piece I create is a unique masterpiece tailored to your individual style.

Designs from Brooks LTD in Denver, Colorado set you apart from the crowd.

For this reason, I created several showstopping looks for a Bastille Day fashion show in Denver, Colorado.   Vintage textiles combining with modern fabrics to create these breezy, one-of-a-kinds frocks.  Here you see where creativity knows no bounds.  Seriously, think table napkins!  Elegant, pristine and very rare from collectors of fine linens.

Photo:  Bahar Samani

Currently I am using tabletop textiles: exquisite napkins and tablecloths from vintage collectors. The quality of these materials is unmatched in today’s marketplace of fast fashion.

Sometimes I create the accessories that go with the designs, completing the looks.

Fast Fashion

You may wonder, “What is fast fashion?”.   It’s a business model that mass-produces cheap, poor-quality items meant to replicate recent high-end trends and designs. It’s considered ‘fast’ fashion because the production is fast and the life spans of the items are fast.  Consumers quickly discard the low cost made items for whatever the next season offers.

Fast fashion also has devastating consequences on the environment and the people who make the items.

Because of this, workers’ rights are eroded during the production process and the discarded clothing ends up in landfills.

Slow Fashion

In contrast we proudly embrace the concept of slow fashion. Slow fashion honors craftsmanship and quality materials. Our pieces are meant to be treasured and enjoyed, then passing down from generation to generation.  I like to call them wearable art work.

Experience personalized consultations

Finally, experience the luxury of a personalized consultation and our bespoke pieces that speak to your soul. Embrace the unexpected and infuse playfulness into your wardrobe with our timeless creations that promise to bring joy into your life. Celebrate the art of dressing authentically in a wearable art dress.

Discover the perfect artisian piece to elevate your style. Shop now

Reach out to schedule a one on one zoom call here.

Photo:  Bahar Samani

The post Creativity knows no bounds appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Let us help to transform your keepsake textiles into our Legacy Jacket.  Perhaps you have a beautiful tablecloth you love and never use. Or maybe there’s a textile you couldn’t resist buying tucked away in a drawer. You might even have an actual piece of clothing from a loved one holding wonderful memories but isn’t something you’d wear.  We have a way to transform these keepsake pieces into something truly unique and totally wearable.

We are excited to share with you our ‘Legacy Jacket’ made from transforming keepsake textiles.  The  design features reworking vintage pieces that are perfect for those who love retro and vintage fashion and keeping memories alive. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and made to order, making them truly wearable works of art. The Legacy Jacket is also sustainably made in Denver, Colorado and completely eco-friendly.

Each jacket is made even more special with our creative use of visible mending and patchwork techniques.  These techniques add beautiful details and unique accents. Our slow fashion approach ensures that every Legacy Jacket is crafted with care and attention to detail, so you are enjoying  it for years to come.

Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or just want to add some color and personality to your wardrobe, our upcycled heirloom Legacy Jacket is perfect for you.

Join us in our commitment to sustainable fashion and get your own wearable art today!

Contact us here  or at designroom@brooksltd.net.

The post Our Legacy Jacket appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Photo: Hardy Klahold

Custom Jean Jacket

When Ball Arena approached me to design a super custom piece for a super-secret client, I could hardly believe it. After all, the custom piece was for THE Shania Twain. As in, the country crossover star who transcended genres to dominate the pop music charts, too. As in, the Canadian singer-songwriter whose tunes were the soundtrack of the 90s and early 2000s. THAT Shania Twain.

Needless to say, I wanted to impress her much.

Creating a custom jean jacket especially for Shania Twain meant designing a personalized piece both inspired by her and featuring my signature Brooks LTD elements. I watched her interviews and pulled out specific words and phrases Shania used. It is my sincere hope these words resonate with her and that she enjoys the personalization as much as the jacket itself.

Design Details Matter

Using a Japanese technique called Sashiko stitching, I created hand-stitched details. Sashiko, a traditional way of mending and decorating textiles to further their life span to prevent them from going into the landfill, has captivated my spirit as it is relaxing and therapeutic to slow down and stitch where the thread takes me. Sashiko is also in my current collection, with rivers of thread stitched on easy to wear garments.

Shania’s custom jean jacket is made from recycled denim, including functional pockets on the frayed-edge stylized sleeves. Even the former belt loops were upcycled to hold sunglasses! The jacket includes a custom printed silk charmeuse lining and backside fringe created from tasteful sequins on cotton chainette thread for some Western flair. I wanted the front to be classic, chic and tailored, so that Shania could accessorize as needed. As you turn, she shows off a playful vibe from the color changing sequins.

Jacket Spotted on Instagram

I noticed she recently wore the jean jacket on an Instagram video with Billy Ray Cyrus announcing a reissue of one of her iconic albums. It’s thrilling to see Shania Twain as a walking piece of art in a Brooks LTD custom made jean jacket!

Proud of Pieces: Custom or Not

As a Colorado-based clothing designer, I love getting to design and create custom pieces for women across the globe. After 45+ years of making unique fashions, my designs are typically worn by women right here in the West. It is a joy whenever women happily wear Brooks LTD fashions — both custom pieces and from my ready-to-wear collections!

Brooks Luby wearing her own upcycled jacket showing off Shania Twain’s custom denim jacket

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