Our NYC store is officially open, find us at 425 West Broadway!
What Y-Y New York?
Y-Y is a New York-based fashion brand that transforms discarded materials into elegant, one-of-a-kind garments through the art of upcycling. Founded in 2020, Y-Y merges sustainability with refined design, offering clothing that is not only visually striking but deeply intentional. Each piece is crafted with artisanal care, balancing clean silhouettes with intricate details, poetic messages, and a strong sense of purpose.
At its core, Y-Y exists to bring warmth, creativity, and meaning to everyday dressing. Inspired by real stories, contemporary art, and youth culture, the brand reimagines waste into wearable expressions of beauty and soul. Every stitch, patch, and textile is chosen with care—speaking to a conscious, fashion-forward audience who values quality, originality, and emotional connection.
With a focus on small-batch production and handcrafted details, Y-Y invites wearers into a world where fashion is slow, personal, and powerful.
Designer's Bio
Y-Y New York was founded by Ying ( Irene ), a fashion designer dedicated to sustainability and innovative design. After graduating from Pratt Institute, she gained valuable experience working with prestigious fashion houses such as Proenza Schouler, Vera Wang, and Jill Stuart. These experiences opened her eyes to the environmental impact of traditional fashion production and inspired her to launch Y-Y, where creativity merges with sustainability.
Motivated to effect positive change, Irene founded Y-Y with the guiding questions: "What is wasted? Why is it wasted? How can it be fixed?" She minimized production waste by utilizing up cycled materials and reimagining fashion with a strong focus on ethical practices. This approach allows her to create one-of-a-kind garments, uniquely defined by their original form.
At Y-Y, the emphasis on upcycled materials and handcrafted pieces reflects Irene’s belief that fashion can be a tool for positive change. Her collections are known for their elegant silhouettes, artisanal details, and the incorporation of personal messages within the garments, adding a poetic and intimate layer to each piece.
Collection Descriptions
