New Brands For Summer
Summer shopping is a thrill no matter how you shake it. Without fail, new swimsuits, dresses and sandals provoke a perkier mood, making the process of getting dressed a joyful experience each day. Even better is when said warm-weather staples come from emerging brands that most shoppers are unfamiliar with. You know, those eye-catching designs that are so clearly crafted with a fresh perspective and make for an outfit that’s distinctive. If you’re the type to set yourself apart with an under-the-radar label, ahead, we’re spotlighting seven brands with gorgeous offerings that are just right for summer. From a new basket bag line ethically made by female artisans to a small independent British clothing label who makes the cutest tops to wear with jeans, you’ll repeatedly be answering the question, who makes that?, with the answer, this amazing brand I discovered…all summer long.
Kitri
This London-based direct-to-consumer womenswear label (which just launched US retail!) was ideated from the founder's frustration of not being able to find well-made, distinctive designs without breaking the bank. Look to this line for ladylike dresses, cheeky prints and soft tailoring—the ultimate working woman’s wardrobe. Every design is produced in limited quantities to avoid the dreaded scenario of bumping into another woman in the same piece. To wit, the collection is available at a modest price point, ranging from $60 to $350.
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A feminine wrap dress for work and play.
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A darling off-the-shoulder top to wear with denim, trousers and skirts.
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A romantic linen mini to wear to outdoor weddings.
Olivia Rose The Label
This small independent British clothing label was founded in January 2017 by English designer, Olivia Rose Havelock—your new go-to for puffy sleeve tops and breathable cotton dresses. Every item is handmade to order by Olivia with fabrics locally sourced in the UK and shipped with a personal handwritten note. All items are made in very limited quantities with a conscious effort to waste as little fabric and resources as possible. Due to the handmade nature of her business, Olivia is able to produce about 30 orders a week, so if you have your eye on something, order ASAP!
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This summer is all about the corseted puffy sleeve top.
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A figure-flattering dress made from %100 cotton.
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The little white top, supped up for a skosh of drama.
Cesta Collective
Basket bags are a dime a dozen these days—thank you, Jane Birkin—with elevated takes making it the it bag for summer. Cesta is a just-launched independent brand designing elegant and modern baskets with a socially conscious spin. Each bag is woven by female artisanal cooperatives in Rwanda using locally sourced renewable resources and hand finished in New York City, perfectly blending artisanal craftsmanship with modern edge. Whether you go for the lunchpail or ladybag silhouette, you'll end up with a style that is perfect for pairing with your summer separates, little white dresses and beachwear. Cesta’s ultimate goal: To create economy in the developing world and to promote female empowerment through joyful accessories. We're into it.
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A new take on summer stripes.
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Your summer accessory lineup should include some color.
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This cross-body style easily transitions from day to night.
Lykke Wullf
For quirky-cool summer staples, look no further than LA-based brand, Lykke Wullf. Named after designer Jemma Swatek’s mother which means “lucky wolf” in Danish, the line has an eccentric, yet girlish energy to it, comprised of apparel and accessories that reflect Jemma’s English-born, Danish-raised, California-based aesthetic. Our top picks: the voluminous tops, frilled dresses and easy handbags. If unconventionally feminine is your taste, this brand is for you.
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Wear this dress with sneakers for sunny strolls and block-heels for date night.
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The cutest carryall in so-now gingham print.
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If you hadn't noticed, we have an allegiance to puffy tops at the moment.
Gia Couture
For a fanciful twist on timeless footwear, Gia Couture will be your newest obsession. Founded by Barbara Borghini in January 2016, the Italian label handcrafts luxurious sandals, pumps and flats with a whimsical spirit—think multicolored palettes and playfully elegant fabrics. Every silhouette is timeless yet cheerful. You’ll be vying for their popular Bandana accented pumps and two-tone lace-up sandals.
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In optic white, this pair pops against everything in your wardrobe, from denim to dresses.
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An alternating two-tone palette puts a lively spin on minimal lace-up sandals.
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Velvet ties take these chunky slides into feminine territory.
Datura
Datura was founded by Stefania Borras in 2012 and designed with an independent woman in mind. Look to this brand for easy silhouettes that are fun, feminine, comfortable and distinct—electric hues and meticulous details are at the crux of the current collection. Every piece is designed in New York and made in Barcelona from natural fabrics, promoting slow fashion through a tightly controlled manufacturing process.
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Why, yes, these hot pink pants are essential.
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A breezy take on the corset trend.
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An alternative take on wedding guest attire, you’ll ‘wow’ in this electric chartreuse dress.
Seren
Warm weather lends itself to breezy jumpsuits and Seren is sure to be your new favorite in this category. Launched in 2016 by Lucia Dailey, the line originated from Lucia’s affinity for the one piece—she considers a jumpsuit the epitome of understated elegance and one of the easiest pieces a woman can wear. Made from 100% silk, bold, hand-painted prints are at the core of this brand—a perfect look for all your summer occasions from sunset soirées to the wedding circuit.
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This feminine all-in-one can go from the city to the beach with ease.
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A kimono-inspired silhouette that’s perfect for weddings.
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The idyllic jumpsuit for a seaside soiree.
