In 2024, I made a conscious effort to discover smaller brands and brands that I have never heard of before. I wanted to discover smaller brands and share them with my audience. I’ve always been a shopper of large retail stores and chain stores but felt there were so many new brands emerging that I wanted to learn more about. Even brands that may have been around for many years but were new to me. So that is what I did and it has been received really well by many of you. I still shop large retailers from time to time but my shift towards smaller brands has introduced me to a whole new world of products and styles. Many of these smaller brands are also women owned which is something that I definitely sought out. I thought I would round up these smaller brands in one blog post so you can discover them for yourself!
Small Fashion Brands to Put on Your Radar
Lunya (discount code: alittlebitetc)
While Lunya is known mostly for their uber popular washable silk pajamas and loungewear, they also make some amazing cozy pieces to wear outside of the home too. This long chunky cardigan is an absolute stunner and rivals my puffer coats in terms of warmth! LOL
Ruti (discount code: MAREE15) and Birdies
My closet is mostly basics and neutrals so the brand Ruti seemed right up my alley. They make great basics but often with a modern twist. This cardigan has the most beautiful waterfall collar and drapey fit.
I was familiar with Birdies for a long time but finally got to try their shoes and discover why they are such a beloved brand. The originally were known for their loafers because they have the cushiony insole of a slipper but could worn outside. They have expanded their shoe styles to includes a ton of variety but the comfort aspect of them is still there. These bejewelled flats have insane arch support and a quilted cushion insole that feels almost orthopedic, if I’m being honest. The blend of comfort and style are unmatched with Birdies.
Vee Collective
When I need to carry and lug around all the things, I would prefer to carry something that does this while also looking stylish. Vee Collective makes a ton of different bag styles, but these puffy totes are my favorite style. They come in various sizes, but I got the shiny black XL version which I LOVE and it holds more than I even need. LOL
Margaux NY
It is a tad bit hard to see the full details of my shoes, but these Margaux NY pointy toe flats have been one of my favorite shoe discoveries last year. Besides the gorgeous styles they make, Margaux NY offers the largest range of shoe sizing I have ever seen. Their size offerings range from 3.5/4 to a 13.5/14 with three width options to choose from as well. The styles are absolutely gorgeous and so chic but their inclusivity is what I really love about Margaux NY.
Omika (discount code: MAREE20) and Favorite Daughter
As a tried and true neutrals gal, one of the best things about discovering so many different brands last year is the increase in prints that my wardrobe experienced. And since I do have so many great basics already in my closet, finding things to wear with printed pieces is super easy. Ha! Omika is a small brand that makes gorgeous pieces in a wide array of bold and vibrant prints. This blouse is like a work of art and truly a statement piece when I wear it.
Favorite Daughter has slowly gained a ton of popularity over the past few years and is now available in a ton of retailers so you may have come across their pieces already. The brand is known for chic and timeless pieces and these black trousers are truly splurge-worthy. They make great casual or weekend only pieces, but if you want to invest in great workwear pieces, Favorite Daughter has so many good options.
Ravella
For those who love their luxury fabrics, Ravella offers great basics in the highest quality silk and cashmere. This cable knit cashmere sweater is simple yet still so elevated and beautiful. Every time I wear it, I get questions from people asking me where I got it.
Sanctuary Clothing (discount code: MAREE15) and Larroude
Sanctuary Clothing is available at some larger retailers so you may have come across their pieces in passing. Their vibe is very laid-back California style with an emphasis on sustainability. I got a few pieces from the brand but I absolutely LOVE this denim shirt the most. The dark wash, the snap buttons, the slight western feel to it without being too over the top – it’s perfect.
I’ve been following the creation and rise of Larroude shoes ever since Marina Larroude left Barneys many years ago. She was the Fashion Director of Barneys for many years and when she left, launched her own shoe line. I think she filled a unique space in the market because her price point falls in between luxury and fast fashion. I have many of her shoes/boots and there is a mix of whimsy and classic to her designs. These loafers are a classic example but the green velvet pair I am wearing below is definitely more whimsical yet still easy to style. My absolute FAVORITE style from the entire Larroude brand is the Kate boot. It is stunning, sexy and absolutely timeless.
Me+Em
If there is one thing that automatically comes to mind when I think of the Me + Em brand, it is DETAILS! The details on their clothing are gorgeous. Many of the styles are more feminine than I tend to gravitate towards but surprisingly I have embraced adding a few pieces here and there to my closet. This sweater is one of those pieces. From the ruffle detail on the sleeves to the delicate pattern on the sweater, I have worn this sweater non-stop since getting it. And the newest collection that just dropped is beyond stunning!
M.M.LaFleur (code: MAREE15)
For my ladies that need to invest in high quality workwear pieces for the office, M.M. LaFleur is exactly the brand you need. They are especially known for their suits so if you work in environment where suits are a necessity, this is a brand worth investing in. But I do not work in an office so fear not because there are a ton of other options as well. This jardigan (jacket/cardigan) is one of their best sellers and I have worn it more than I ever thought I would. Look how chic it is styled with faux leather pants or you can wear it with trousers or a pencil skirt as an alternative to a blazer.
Heidi Merrick (discount code: MAREE10)
As a life longer East Coaster, I have really fallen in love with many west coast clothing brands and love their entire aesthetic. Heidi Merrick is a Los Angeles-based fashion designer who designs timeless pieces meant to look effortless and elegant. I have a few pieces from her line and love each and every piece. This striped turtleneck is one piece that I have worn repeatedly throughout fall and winter. There is a laid-back vibe to her line which I adore especially her suiting options which perfectly embody the California lifestyle.
Recreational Habits and Lily & Bean (discount code: MAREE15)
The country club/tennis club aesthetic has been trending over the past year and Recreational Habits embodies this whole look so well. They make pieces to wear for tennis, golf, etc but also offer styles that can be worn in a more day to day setting. This striped button down with the contrasting collar came with matching shorts but I have been styling the set separately and love wearing the shirt with jeans and flats. It has an embroidered crest on the pocket and gives a slightly preppy vibe without going too overboard. LOL
I love personalized jewelry (initial necklaces are my favorite thing ever) but I also love personalized accessories. Lily & Bean offers handbags and other accessories that you can personalize and make it your own. This small crossbody bag is one of my favorites to wear because of how compact it is. It carries just the essentials. I can also remove the strap and carry it by the top handle too. It looks very Hermes-esque but at a FRACTION of the price. 🙂
Mille (discount code: MAREE15)
Mille was one of the first small brands that really piqued my interest in exploring smaller brands because I fell in love with so many of her pieces. From the prints to the styles, they are all works of art. I love that many of the prints available come in various different clothing styles so you can choose a dress, top or skirt in a print that you love. The button down blouses were what really kicked off my love for the brand because they fit like a dream as someone with a larger bust. Most button down blouses can be a challenge to wear but the ones I have tried from Mille all fit so generously throughout the chest without being too blousy. Mille is also one of the brands that has been the most popular amongst my readers! So many of you have messaged me after purchasing pieces from her and falling in love with the brand too.
Kilte
Kilte offers luxury knits in various styles and prints but my favorite part about the brand is they offer washable cashmere! The sweater I am wearing is one of their washable cashmere styles and has held up so well after the few times I have washed it. They also offer washable cashmere sets which sound like an absolute dream for those who love to travel or need something chic to wear at home when entertaining.
Brochu Walker
Modern pieces that make you look polished and like you barely put any effort into looking effortless. LOL That is what Brochu Walker pieces offer. This midi dress is one of the pieces they are known for and for good reason. It comes in a short and midi version and a ton of different prints and color options. The fit is perfection and one of those dresses that you need in your closet for those daytime occasions when you need to dress up but not be fully in cocktail attire. In addition to the dresses, the brand offers so many timeless styles with a bit of classic edge rather than a feminine one.
Rixo London
Rixo is a vintage-inspired London based brand and are especially known for their dresses. The prints are all quite bold and there are various fits that appeal to almost any preference. I ordered this simple striped sheath tank dress and wore it all summer and then added a sweater over it and styled it into fall. Some of the styles almost feel a bit rock n’ roll depending on how you style them so their pieces allow for a ton of creativity which I love!
Kerri Rosenthal
While some of the brands I shared are most classic and understated, Kerri Rosenthal clothing is loud, bright and full of personality. She loves to use vibrant colors and bold prints with her pieces. Hearts are a signature print for her so you will find them on many of her pieces. But don’t let the boldness of her brand scare you off if you are someone who typically gravitates towards neutrals. I ordered these pants and tote bag from her and styled it in a way that still felt very “me” and easy to wear from day to day.
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