Miami - April 23, 2007

Stitch, Please

Laura Lees Designs

Cookies and First Aid on a brown sash. Army green suede on the elbows of a thrift store blazer. The Ramones on the butt of a pair of Levi’s.

You’ve always loved to patch things up.

But you’d never think of taking a needle to your favorite dress — the one you bought instead of new tires (not like you go out when it’s raining anyway). Artist and embroiderer Laura Lees has, though.

After taking a textiles class by mistake, Lees became obsessed with stitching — everything from wall hangings for art exhibitions to guitar straps for The Strokes. Her clothing line also embodies that obsession, accessorizing feminine tops and dresses with skulls, daggers, and other patches.

A Japanese print top decorated with hearts and stars; a strapless polka-dot sundress adorned with musical notes; and a turquoise, cowgirl-inspired wrap dress emblazoned with horses are all part of her latest collection.

And that’s one to sew on.

Available at Cybele, 223a Miracle Mile, Coral Gables (305-774-0050). To see styles, go to lauralees.co.uk.