Slow Fashion Is a Big Priority for Me—20 Independent Brands I Always Recommend
Photo:
@alexisforemanAlexis Foreman wears a white button-down from With Nothing Underneath.
Few brands have mastered the appeal of Baserange, which is why I vehemently champion this brand. It boasts many non-conforming, languid shapes, the colour palette spans rich, nature-mimicking tones and muted hues; and the range is one of the most inclusive that I've witnessed.
Tailored skirts will continue to be prevalent in 2024, and Mother of Pearl's iteration is an amalgamation of a slip silhouette (thanks to the looseness that lyocell lends it) with the tailored element of the belt loop.
CAES' current collection includes 30 capsule items from wool scarves to sweaters and trench coats—pieces that constitute the bones of a wardrobe. I own a bodysuit from CAES which I've worn in a bardot style, underneath knitwear and as a scoop-neck top. This brand really does think of everything.
Almada Label specialises in luxury knitwear and clean lines for the discerning minimalist. This style is crisp (unusual for knitwear, though I think it's a fitting description), with quiet details like the fluted sleeves that make it all the more contemporary.
Aeron's muse is the modern woman, and said woman is very chic, with understated, minimalist pieces in her wardrobe amongst showstopping dresses like this.
It's official, Ren is my new brand crush. Who can blame me? With dreamy frocks and puff-sleeved blouses, it's everything I adore under one label.
Contemporary womenswear brand Aligne has been getting even sharper in direction since its debut, and it's hard to believe that the brand is still in its infancy, having only launched in 2020. Its pricing is competitive and the silhouettes are on par with some designer names. Keep your eyes peeled for the S/S 23 collection, which will include '80s-style suiting and a prevalence of denim.
Paloma is just a singular white shirt, so you know it's one worth noting. The white shirt has been a marker for fashion people for many years and I strongly believe every wardrobe will benefit from its versatility. Paloma's is cut in a way that makes it just as appropriate as part of a suit ensemble and as a beach cover-up.
When Damson Madder first launched in 2020, so intrigued was I that I made a beeline for the site and nabbed one of its organically dyed tracksuits. Whilst I very rarely wear tracksuit bottoms, independent brands with reasonably priced apparel were few and far between at the time. Lucky for us dress lovers, it has since extended its range to include full-skirted frocks and silken styles.
OMHU's 2-in-1 sweater comprises 100% lambswool derived in Italy, at a mill that utilises renewable energy. The pieces are then handstitched in the UK. Each piece is directional, considered and made with natural fibres.
Linen isn't just for summer, and Kindred of Ireland celebrates the fabric with many of its styles. You'll find pieces from billowy dresses to delicately cut blouses.
Maker of refined pieces Carla Diogo has a selection of designs that are made to order. The collection includes cotton button-downs with scallop-edge collars and asymmetric tops. My pick of the bunch is this corduroy skirt.
Newly launched label Kind Regards is a self-explorative brand challenging the way we think about clothes. Each style is made to be wrapped, adapted and melded onto the body, as inspired by West African clothing—this wool top demonstrates this convertible element. You can wear it in four styles, as further explained on the website. Four ways, one word: genius.
Bohème Goods rose to prominence with its tie-front top, and since its debut founder Sarah Shabacon has expanded her line to include loungewear and denim pieces, each crafted from natural fibres. The items are designed in Canada and the production is kept slow and concise.
Paloma Wool designs are heavily inspired by the noughties whilst also managing to feel current. The result is sensual styles that celebrate the female form.
I'm a big advocate for natural fibres, as not only are they better for the environment, but they last longer than synthetic styles. Navy Grey's Chunky Field jumper comprises 100% British wool and it features a classic cut in a neutral colour that will suit many skin tones.
I own two pieces from With Nothing Underneath and they are some of the best-quality shirts I've found.
Whilst A Day's March's arsenal predominantly consists of premium basics, now and again the designers play with current trends to create inspired yet timeless pieces.
Slow by name and slow by nature, you'll find a handful of considered designs in classic cuts and some twists on basics thrown in for good measure. Case in point: this boat-neck top with an exposed central seam.