I’m Laura Petrielli, the founder of Vex Latex. I discovered latex while studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York in the early 2000. Its unique qualities captivated me immediately—it was an outlier in the world of traditional fashion materials. My fascination led me to study under a local latex designer, and I haven’t looked back since.
For years, people have assumed that Vex is a large company with multiple designers and a sprawling production team. The truth? Vex is me, and I am Vex. I launched the brand before graduating college two decades ago, and it has been my sole focus and passion ever since. Each piece is sketched, designed, and handcrafted in my Southern California studio with the help of my small, dedicated team. Every creation at Vex tells a story, and for me, each design is deeply personal.
Vex has taken me to places I never could have imagined. I was a runner-up on Bravo’s fashion competition show, Styled to Rock, hosted by Rihanna. My designs have been worn by icons like Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé, Katy Perry, and Dita Von Teese, and have graced the pages of Vogue, W, Interview Magazine, and more.
Vex has grown into something far greater than I ever dreamed when I first discovered latex. My hope is that through Vex’s unique designs, you’ll be inspired to discover something new about yourself.