I hate the high street. I’m also totally fucked off with & Other Stories at the minute as they’re my go-to and I haven’t fancied splurging on any of their clothes (jewellery and beauty not included in this, obviously) in a while now. Cos is great, but since I spent £79 on a dress last month to have my boss tell me she has it in red and black I’m waging a war against central London shops in their entirety. I love vintage, but apparently an 80s white leather skirt that’s ripped up to the crotch isn’t work-friendly, and I find vintage shops to be extremely overpriced in London. Instead, I’ve come to investing in pieces from online as said situation is far less likely to occur. Although it can be it a little more pricey, the pieces are better quality, ethically made and stylish, meaning I can just about justify spending a sizeable amount of my wages on them. See here my most favourite online brands.
LA based contemporary womenswear brand, L’oeil, have been producing ethically-designed clothes for just two years. Even though they’re minimal in style they’re also pretty flamboyant; flared trousers, statement accessories and a peplum hem dress in fuchsia pink are amongst some of the things I’ve found on there. A dress will set you back around $150 but their amazing shoes can be as cheap as $70, that’s Topshop price.
Frankie Shop is as much fun to follow in Instagram as their pieces are to buy. From New York, they have that European meets America style that reminisces Reformation. Collections often include midi linen dresses, incredible statement earrings and leather sliders.
If you’re into vintage-inspired clothing then you’ll love Olive. From my hometown Cheltenham, I always make a point of stopping by their boutique there – it’s their only one and you can find great selection of their womenswear collection, magazines and a few gifty pieces such as candles and hand creams. A little more twee than the other brands, you’ll find cotton pinafores, breton tops and amazing Mom jeans. They also do menswear, so get your brothers/boyfriends on it.
Designed in LA but made in Spain, shoe brand LOQ (like Frankie Shop) combines European craft with classic modern American design. A more expensive price point (a pair of FW17 boots will set you back over $300), you pay for what you’re getting; dreamy muted colour palettes and exquisitely on-point shapes. If you’re looking for a side of man-repeller with your shoes, you’re sure to get it here.