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When Gia Mezz launched LEAU in 2020, she wasn’t trying to chase trends, she was trying to escape them. After starting her career in fast fashion, she grew disillusioned with the industry’s obsession with
speed, where quality was being sacrificed for mass production. “It felt like the artistry and fit of garments were being replaced by urgency,” she says. Determined to do things differently, she began teaching herself graphic design at night while working full time, creating thoughtful, refined pieces for the modern wardrobe.
Then COVID hit. Rather than shelving her vision, Mezz embraced the moment, pivoting to small, limited drops, a decision that unexpectedly became the foundation of the brand. “It gave me the space to slow things down, prioritize intentionality, and create pieces worth investing in,” she explains. That commitment to craftsmanship and purpose-driven design continues to define LEAU today.
Mezz’s signature aesthetic–a fusion of sleek, form-fitting silhouettes and vintage-inspired corsetry–reflects her deep appreciation for ‘90s fashion. “There was such an emphasis on sleek, minimal, and refined pieces,” she says. With LEAU, she aims to bring that same timeless sophistication back to modern wardrobes. But for Mezz, it’s not just about style, it’s about fit. “When clothing fits you right, you feel good. And that kind of confidence is the foundation to a strong capsule wardrobe.”
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LEAU’s corsets have become the brand’s undisputed hero. Frustrated by the lack of well-fitting tops and dresses, Mezz set out to reimagine the classic silhouette with versatility in mind. “The corset silhouette isn’t going anywhere, so for me, it’s about continuing to evolve it into pieces that feel more wearable, versatile, and easy to style,” she says. Whether paired with jeans or a flowing skirt, LEAU’s corsets are designed to be lived in, a rare feat for such a traditionally structured garment. Nearly impossible to keep in stock, they’ve become a cornerstone of the brand.
Despite its growing popularity, LEAU remains rooted in small-batch production. “I’m deeply involved in product development and only release pieces we truly love,” Mezz says. This commitment allows her to stay focused on quality, reduce waste, and remain highly responsive to customer feedback. “I also listen closely to our community: what they’re loving, asking for, or hoping to see again and that directly informs what we restock and how we continue to evolve.”
By breaking free from the traditional fashion calendar, LEAU also gives itself room to breathe. Untethered from the rush of seasonal drops, Mezz releases new pieces only when they’re truly ready. “Not being tied to a traditional fashion calendar allows me to slow down and be intentional with every style,” she says.
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As the brand continues to grow, Mezz has her sights set on scaling LEAU’s digital presence and expanding internationally. With plans to introduce new product categories, she envisions LEAU becoming a go-to for a well-rounded capsule wardrobe. “At its core, LEAU is about redefining what it means to invest in fashion,” Mezz says. “I want to inspire people to move away from fast fashion and embrace the idea of quality over quantity with timeless pieces meant to last in your wardrobe.”
Presented by: APG
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