One of my favorite parts of my job is that I get paid to shop. (My family is equally impressed and horrified I’ve made my addiction into a career.) And when shopping as much as I do, one comes across a lot of brands. But not all pass the ultimate test – will I rave about it to a friend? To me, a great brand is one that brings something new to life in their products – adding a tailored sleeve to a classic button down like this one from Suzie Kondi, an industry changing approach to include artisanal fine clothing like Atelier Jolie, or gorgeous jewelry – for your phone. These are the ideas that have the power to turn these companies into cult brands. Read on to find my current favorite brands.
Suzie Kondi
I found this brand at a press day recently and loved it. They have the most luxurious knits for winter – my favorites being the hand knit cashmere collection, of course! They also have the cutest sets in the softest, lightest weight terry cloth fabric coming out this spring and this new button down I am obsessed with. It is oversized in exactly the right way, with a feminine cut sleeve.
Atelier Jolie
Atelier Jolie
This brand was started by Angelina Jolie and I am just obsessed with her mission and ethos along with the workshop and showroom in NYC. This brand embodies the change and beauty I want to see in the industry. The way she talks about including the artisans in the presentation and distribution of their clothing is amazing. Definitely worth checking out!
Damson Madder
This London based cool girl brand has been on my radar for a while, and I finally got my hands on a couple pieces over Black Friday. The quality is great and the designs are a mix of Scandinavian cool with pops of color. I love this button down and this leopard vest I got. They also believe in slow fashion and more sustainable practices which I love.
Chan Luu
Chan Luu was one of my mom’s favorite brands growing up, so by no means am I saying this is a “new” brand. But, I’ve had my eye on them as they’ve recently released some beautiful new pieces that seem updated and modern. Their jewelry has a mix of classic, polished and bohemian vibes blended with current trends – I’m seeing this “lucky fish” everywhere.
Ossa
This is not a clothing brand, but a phone chain. Niche, I know. But their phone chains, wristlet and crossbody, are literally beautiful pieces of jewelry. Our phones are the one thing we always have with us, why not dress them up? (And add functionality)!
These fashion brands have the power to reach cult status for various reasons. Who doesn’t love sustainable brands with a mission, wearable timeless pieces and original style? It’s rare that I become evangelical about brands, but I just can’t gatekeep these! I hope you like them as much as I do!
