“Support Small Businesses” has become a buzzy phrase that you’ve likely heard more than a couple times in the past few weeks, but there’s a good reason behind it. The directive carries a lot of weight at the moment. In light of the recent pandemic, these businesses need your support now more than ever. That being said, we decided to shed some light on a few of our favorites. We’re obsessed with all these cool, *female-founded* brands and their unique designs—we’ve included everything from summer-ready dresses to silk socks perfect for your next WFH ’fit. For the first time in a while, you can feel good about shopping.
Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@kalda_shoesIcelandic designer Kata Alda turned her love of shoes and the power they hold over your mood into brand Kalda in 2016. She takes classic silhouettes and puts a funky spin on them. On top of that, each shoe is produced ethically in a female-led factory in Portugal. A lover of vintage fashion, Kata cites vintage designs as inspiration for her modern footwear.
Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@commesiNow is definitely the time to treat yourself to a pair of luxury socks. Designer Jenni Lee refers to them as an “everyday luxury,” made of touchably soft cashmere and silk. The socks began as an elevated take on the classic trouser sock and are now available in a range of colors. Through April 3rd, they will be donating 10 percent of their sales to the Food Bank for New York City.
Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@caracara_nycFounded by three New York City girls, Julia Workman Brown, Sasha Martin, and Katie Hobbs, Cara Cara’s debut spring/summer collection is packed with full skirts and billowing sleeves that make you instantly crave the warmer temps that summer brings. Many of the items can take you seamlessly from daytime outings to evening drinks. The prints are the major power players here, featuring emblems of summer like pineapples, flowers, and grapefruits.
Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@thesantofficialThe Sant infuses pristine Spanish craftsmanship with a modern eye for new silhouettes and interesting finishes. The shapes are avant-garde-meets-contemporary and draw inspiration from unique objects like a Japanese treasure box called a “Kinkachu.” Founded by Laura Riera in Barcelona, each bag is handcrafted by experienced leatherworkers. These quirky styles play directly into the tiny bag trend and were spotted on more than one arm at fashion week.
Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@bougessaFrench-born, Dubai-based designer Faiza Bougessa draws inspiration from art, architecture, and global culture for her streamlined, sophisticated designs. The beautifully crafted minimalist silhouettes transcend trends with a blend of masculine and feminine elements—these are pieces that you will keep in your closet for years. They have also waved worldwide shipping costs for the time being.
Top Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@thesantofficial
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