Peculiar Treasures x LAI is a collection of all things peculiar. From wearable Art & vintage, the collection is filled with unique treasures and lots of color! Peculiar Treasures is for the different, the bold, the unique, the Set pART. The collection is always filled with unique treasures.  You are certain to find pieces that will keep you standing out in any crowd. Everything is Peculiar!

The Artist behind the Style:

Alaina Moné (Lai)

"I was created by the One who holds the ultimate palette and brush. I'm just a reflection, sharing my touch!" - Lai

My name is Alaina Moné (Lai). I am a Child of The Most High God, follower of Christ Jesus, wife and mama of three! I am currently living an answered prayer. When I was a little girl I envisioned myself as an artist and fashion designer. I loved to play dress up and create my own pieces. At the age of 7, I had my own jewelry business(I had an order sheet!).  When I was 14, I began my own hand painted clothing business(I even had business cards). In 2003, I began thrifting in order to find unique pieces to add to my wardrobe and reconstruct (up-cycle) some of the pieces I found, which mainly consisted of painting on clothing.

In 2005, The LAI Collection was born. I sold vintage clothing and handmade jewelry while in college at Grambling State University.  I would also vend and do pop-up shops at flea markets and events around my hometown of Washington, D.C. during my summers home. With a degree in Visual Communications, I also worked as a freelance photographer for an online fashion and art magazine where I was able to meet and connect with local artists, allowing me the opportunity to style them in my handmade pieces. 

After graduating college, I spent a few months working in photography before becoming an educator. I spent 11 years teaching and running after-school art clubs.  

One night in 2019, I was reading my Bible and I came across the scripture, Exodus 19:5 and Psalms 135:4. These scriptures spoke to my spirit. I prayed on them and eventually I decided, “What a great name for a new business!”  I’ve always conducted business under The LAI Collection, but I needed something more specific to describe all of my unique handmade creations. On June 3rd, 2020, Peculiar Treasures was born! In 2021, God moved me out of the classroom to be a caregiver to my then sick mother, a stay-at-home mom with my newly born baby and a more focused and devoted mother and wife all around. Today, I currently a full time STYLE ARTIST.  My desire is to travel the world thrifting and sharing my love for vintage and art with all who I come in contact with. 

Peculiar Treasures x LAI is a collection that represents ALL of me. LAI stands for Let, Art, Inspire. I believe in sharing a piece of who I am because my collection reflects my personality. My art is my testimony. I hope to inspire others to live in color, be bold and set apART with their style and faith, and to Seek The Kingdom of God and His righteousness above all things.

Love,

Lai

Message:

Keep in mind that you were created to stand out! You are Special. You are Treasured. Therefore, you are to do nothing less than exude the best.  Your style alone speaks volumes before you open your mouth. Who are you? You are a Peculiar Treasure. You didn't ask to be, it's just how it is.

Peculiar Treasures is for the different, the bold, the unique, the trendsetters. From handmade to vintage, you are certain to find treasures that will keep you standing out in any crowd. Everything is Peculiar!