While it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day of scrolling on Instagram through countless promoted ads from designer brands or established corporate monoliths, nothing shakes me up quite like stumbling upon an exciting independent brand on my Explore page. Sure, my screen time may frighten a Victorian-era child, but it’s undeniable that in the world of social-first fashion, I’ve been exposed to countless international and local independent designers that have begun to take over my mind (and, most notably, my closet).
On the tails of Small Business Week, I did a deep dive of all the can’t-miss independent labels you need to know that are changing the industry, one design at a time. Offering everything from aura-inspired artisan hats to small-batch Ukrainian shoes made amid a global war, these 12 brands and independent designers deserve to be on your radar, now and forevermore.
Lookie Atelier
Hailing from Ukraine, this small-batch, made-to-order footwear company has slowly (but surely!) taken over my closet. Specializing in artisanal leathers and ultra-trendy yet wearable mesh shoes, Lookie Atelier has become one of my favorite, go-to brands for jaw-dropping flats, sandals, and heels that I know will get me dozens of compliments.
