Member Stories
1.cre ar+
1.cre ar+ stands out as luxury sustainable wear inspired by artists and makers made intentionally, responsibly, and beautifully. Founded by Yola Colón, an architect, art historian, and art collector from Puerto Rico, the clothing brand reflects her passion for both artistry and craftsmanship. Originally established in 1999 as Yola Colón, Yola reimagined her brand in 2020, launching 1. cre ar+, which is Spanish/English wordplay where one recognizes the word ‘art’, and then hidden in the wordplay, an encouragement to create, as in the Spanish ‘crear.’
Drawing inspiration from architecture and workwear, 1. cre ar+ creates clothing with meticulous attention to detail. Every piece features a tailored silhouette with refined finishes, using renewable materials and ensuring fair compensation for all makers. Proudly crafted in New York City, the brand empowers wearers to navigate urban life with confidence and elegance.
As a long-time designer in New York City’s Garment District, Yola recognizes her Latinx heritage as a valuable asset. “I’ve been making fashion since 1999, and I’ve seen firsthand the challenges the Latinx community faces in this industry—low wages and lack of benefits,” Yola says. Her experience fuels her commitment to ethical fashion, advocating for fair treatment and opportunities for Latinx workers.
At the core of 1. cre ar+ is a commitment to sustainability. For Yola, this means more than using eco-friendly materials; it involves local craftsmanship, slow manufacturing, and making thoughtful choices. “Our goal is to positively impact the environment, especially in the Caribbean and Puerto Rico, where I’m from,” she explains.
Looking ahead, Yola dreams of opening skilled workrooms in Puerto Rico, specifically in La Aguja, to provide opportunities for artisans. She hopes to inspire others in the Latinx community to believe in the possibility of building successful, sustainable businesses. Her advice to aspiring Latinx entrepreneurs? “Be mindful of sourcing and production; make locally within our community.”