It’s always great to own something from a major fashion designer’s label, but the biggest names don’t always make the best clothes for your style. Perhaps you’ve grown tired of the usual lines and styles and are looking for something more creative and edgy. Or maybe you just want to try a label that’s a bit more “off the radar.”
After all, just about every major designer was and “up and comer” at some point. Lest we forget – before Christian Siriano was “the” Christian Siriano, he was a just a recent graduate getting his feet wet by competing on Project Runway. It pays to keep an eye on up-and-coming fashion designers (sometimes literally, as their prices can be less than their department store counterparts), so here are a few unique brands you’re going to want to keep an eye on.
Nufferton
This season’s loungewear as eveningwear trend isn’t going away any time soon, so you’ll want to head straight to Nufferton’s website. This brand’s fun prints are reminiscent of everything you love about Marimekko, and the brand’s uniquely Swedish style will fit perfectly with your Ikea-filled apartment. The pajama sets that Nufferton sells are unisex, so there’s no shopping for “men’s” or “women’s” pajamas. Simply find a pattern and color scheme you like enough to order, and prepare to get cozy!
alfie douglas
Alfie Douglas is another label to look out for. All bags are designed and created by hand in the brand’s London studio, and their goal is to make sure their products last a lifetime. They’re worth investing in – currently, the brand is offering a series of leather bags in a unique midnight blue shade in smooth and tumbled textures. The color will give you the pop of personality to stand out – and the silhouettes are classic and can be worn from season to season.
Richard&Grace
This NYC-based brand is currently appointment only, so it’s pretty big achievement to score one of Richard&Grace’s utilitarian pieces. Their extreme silhouettes are simple yet incredibly bold – you’re bound to stand out in a crowd. Currently, Richard&Grace is featuring jackets that are perfect for the colder months. They’re oversized, so they’re perfect for layering with your fall wardrobe, but it’s also likely that you’ll be stopped by a photographer for your killer street style.
Vejas
Looking for a few pieces that will last through the winter but can translate from hipster to boho chic? Vejas Kruszewski has you covered. Originating from Toronto but selling clothing in major global cities (NYC, Tokyo, etc.) Vejas has become pretty popular for his big name celebrities, which include Drake, for his Summer Sixteen Tours. If you’re reading this, it’s not too late to get on board with the flight-style dresses and leather drawstring backpacks that Vejas creates.
Eric Schlösberg
If you still secretly dream about becoming Blair Waldorf, Eric Schlösberg has answered your prayers with his Fall 2016 collection. The line, which also served as his solo debut (he previously created Ammerman Schlösberg), was inspired by an Upper East Side girl whose life falls apart. The resulting look is an urban-inspired Betsey Johnson fantasy, full of pieces that will both provide a throwback to your private school days and help you rock your inner #girlboss.
