There’s nothing we love more than discovering up-and-coming brands. Not only do they bring a fresh perspective to the often hackneyed world of fashion, they’re a great way to inject a little individuality to your wardrobe. After all, those Zara boots are amazing, but literally everyone you know is going to own a pair. Instead, peruse these lesser-known brands and get ahead of the pack.
Under-The-Radar Fashion Brands To Know
Nanushka
What we love: The Hungarian designer who honed her skills in London believes "if a garment is designed to function well, it will by definition be beautiful." The breezy pieces are easy to wear and boast a subtle femininity.
What to buy: Lish Trucker Jacket, $441
Cult Gaia
What we love: The brand that brought you the cult bag of summer has just launched ready-to-wear. Flirty pieces like backless jumpsuits and slinky slip dresses will be finding their way into fashion-girl wardrobes at lightning speed.
What to buy: Audrey Midi Slip Dress Peacock, $428
Hayden Lasher
What we love: The entire line—which includes svelte evening bags and functional totes—features classic silhouettes bedecked with a dainty Belgian bow. The polished uptown vibe isn't surprising given the designer's great grand uncle is Henri Bendel. Yes, the Henri Bendel.
What to buy: Navy Evening Bag, $1,300
Koché
What we love: The mishmash of street culture, art and high fashion makes this brand exciting and intense. Think bold colors, avant-garde silhouettes and lots of attitude.
What to buy: Embellished Satin Sleeveless Blouse, $1,215
Bonsergent Studio
What we love: Started by stylists and visual merchandisers Ben and Christian who hail from France and Argentina, Bonsergeant Studio is an online store of vintage finds that look decidedly modern. Each treasure looks like something you'd find in a cute boutique in Europe only you no longer need an overpriced flight to get your hands on it.
What to buy: Kenzo Pink Trousers, $139
Carel
What we love: The French brand has actually existed since 1952 and has managed to stay true to its aesthetic while still offering trend-appropriate footwear for over six decades.
What to buy: Kina Turquoise Suede Mary Jane, $429
Claudia Li
What we love: After studying at Central Saint Martins and Parsons, interning with Brandon Maxwell and working for JW Anderson, Claudia Li launched her own label in 2015 at the age of 27. Her trademark is taking simple silhouettes and exaggerating them with sculptural details.
What to buy: Spaghetti Strap Top, $350
SemSem
What we love: The founder and creative director of SemSem, Abeer Al Otaiba, has a degree in civil engineering and a European style sensibility. The Egyptian native incorporates triangles and lotus shapes into her striking designs that range from polished daytime staples to jaw-dropping evening looks.
What to buy: Camille High-Waisted Pants, $950
Ajaie Alaie
What we love: The unusual name is a Sanskrit mantra "being in your power," which is to say indestructible and invincible. If there was ever a time to need that kind of strength, now feels like it. Geared toward helping women feel stronger and more grounded in their surroundings, the pieces are bold without being flashy.
What to buy: Sol Dress, $185
Eve Denim
What we love: The LA-based brand seeks a return to authenticity and individuality, encouraging women to "reinstate investment pieces" in their wardrobes. Every US-made item is intended to be broken in and loved by the wearer.
What to buy: Charlotte Culotte, $295
Ciao Lucia
What we love: Launched this past June in California, Ciao Lucia is dedicated to resort wear and "themed after an old Italian movie poster." Think high-waisted bikini bottoms, whisper-light dresses and statement blouses.
What to buy: Allegra Top Poppy, $285
Mateo
What we love: Our love for off-kilter, sculptural statement jewelry knows no bounds, and this brand offers a wide range of thoughtful fine jewelry pieces that aren't outrageously expensive.
What to buy: 14K Gold Atomium Earring, $1,500
Merlette
What we love: Designed and produced in New York, the line of effortless pieces with subtle details is intended to fit into the fast-paced lives of modern women. Whether you're heading to the office or the beach, these pieces will become constant go-tos.
What to buy: Majorelle Blouse, $380
The Last Line
What we love: Cool everyday pieces rendered in a rainbow of colorful gemstones? Sign us up.
What to buy: Rainbow Flower Drop Earrings, $1,843
Tish Cox
What we love: The brand has a cult following in its hometown of Dallas but until recently hasn't been available online. Thankfully the architectural pieces—made in a factory that employs blind workers—are now available on ShopTheSil.com.
What to buy: Tish Cox Aubrey Dress, $695
