I'm a huge advocate for shopping small and sustainable. What started as a way to curb my old shopping habits turned into an inspiring process that transformed the way I view clothes. My conscious relationship with clothing has now spanned over 10 years, and I've realised that come January after the buzz of Christmas and Boxing Day sales dwindle, public attention seems to turn to independent brands in a collective bid to become more conscious of over-consumption. Although I don't subscribe to the "new year, new me" rhetoric, I do think it's a helpful lens to view the way we consume.
Like our seasonal wardrobe switchovers, January is an opportunity to evaluate the way we choose to shop, and this can include making mindful swaps and introducing slow fashion brands into our rotations. If you're hoping to shop more sustainably and with ethical brands in mind, rest assured that small brands are typically more considered in one way or another—whether that's by producing just one capsule collection, using recycled or organic materials, or adhering to fair living wages for their garment makers. Ethics aren't always synonymous with small brands, but generally, these values tend to be more front and centre. And if in doubt and you want to ask questions, the brand owner(s) are usually much more accessible.
Through the years I've kept something of a log of the brands I like to showcase, and I think there's no better time than January to share them. Keep reading to discover the 20 slow-fashion brands I think should be on everyone's radar this year and beyond.
Alexis Foreman wears a white button-down from With Nothing Underneath.
1. Baserange
Few brands have mastered the appeal of Baserange, which is why I vehemently champion this brand. It boasts many non-conforming, languid shapes, the colour palette spans rich, nature-mimicking tones and muted hues; and the range is one of the most inclusive that I've witnessed.
2. Mother of Pearl
Tailored skirts will continue to be prevalent in 2024, and Mother of Pearl's iteration is an amalgamation of a slip silhouette (thanks to the looseness that lyocell lends it) with the tailored element of the belt loop.
3. CAES
CAES' current collection includes 30 capsule items from wool scarves to sweaters and trench coats—pieces that constitute the bones of a wardrobe. I own a bodysuit from CAES which I've worn in a bardot style, underneath knitwear and as a scoop-neck top. This brand really does think of everything.
4. Almada Label
Almada Label specialises in luxury knitwear and clean lines for the discerning minimalist. This style is crisp (unusual for knitwear, though I think it's a fitting description), with quiet details like the fluted sleeves that make it all the more contemporary.
5. Aeron
Aeron's muse is the modern woman, and said woman is very chic, with understated, minimalist pieces in her wardrobe amongst showstopping dresses like this.
6. REN London
It's official, Ren is my new brand crush. Who can blame me? With dreamy frocks and puff-sleeved blouses, it's everything I adore under one label.
7. Aligne
Contemporary womenswear brand Aligne has been getting even sharper in direction since its debut, and it's hard to believe that the brand is still in its infancy, having only launched in 2020. Its pricing is competitive and the silhouettes are on par with some designer names. Keep your eyes peeled for the S/S 23 collection, which will include '80s-style suiting and a prevalence of denim.
8. Paloma
Paloma is just a singular white shirt, so you know it's one worth noting. The white shirt has been a marker for fashion people for many years and I strongly believe every wardrobe will benefit from its versatility. Paloma's is cut in a way that makes it just as appropriate as part of a suit ensemble and as a beach cover-up.
9. Damson Madder
When Damson Madder first launched in 2020, so intrigued was I that I made a beeline for the site and nabbed one of its organically dyed tracksuits. Whilst I very rarely wear tracksuit bottoms, independent brands with reasonably priced apparel were few and far between at the time. Lucky for us dress lovers, it has since extended its range to include full-skirted frocks and silken styles.
10. OMHU
OMHU's 2-in-1 sweater comprises 100% lambswool derived in Italy, at a mill that utilises renewable energy. The pieces are then handstitched in the UK. Each piece is directional, considered and made with natural fibres.
11. Noelle
When I wear tracksuits I opt for a matching sweatshirt and pants set in this exact hue. Noelle is onto a winner with this pristine shade of ecru and perfectly slouched silhouette. Judging by its other pieces, you needn't compromise on style when it comes to comfort.
12. Kindred of Ireland
Linen isn't just for summer, and Kindred of Ireland celebrates the fabric with many of its styles. You'll find pieces from billowy dresses to delicately cut blouses.
13. Carla Diogo
Maker of refined pieces Carla Diogo has a selection of designs that are made to order. The collection includes cotton button-downs with scallop-edge collars and asymmetric tops. My pick of the bunch is this corduroy skirt.
14. Kind Regards
Newly launched label Kind Regards is a self-explorative brand challenging the way we think about clothes. Each style is made to be wrapped, adapted and melded onto the body, as inspired by West African clothing—this wool top demonstrates this convertible element. You can wear it in four styles, as further explained on the website. Four ways, one word: genius.
15. Bohème Goods
Bohème Goods rose to prominence with its tie-front top, and since its debut founder Sarah Shabacon has expanded her line to include loungewear and denim pieces, each crafted from natural fibres. The items are designed in Canada and the production is kept slow and concise.
16. Paloma Wool
Paloma Wool designs are heavily inspired by the noughties whilst also managing to feel current. The result is sensual styles that celebrate the female form.
17. Navy Grey
I'm a big advocate for natural fibres, as not only are they better for the environment, but they last longer than synthetic styles. Navy Grey's Chunky Field jumper comprises 100% British wool and it features a classic cut in a neutral colour that will suit many skin tones.
18. With Nothing Underneath
I own two pieces from With Nothing Underneath and they are some of the best-quality shirts I've found.
19. A Day's March
Whilst A Day's March's arsenal predominantly consists of premium basics, now and again the designers play with current trends to create inspired yet timeless pieces.
20. The Slow Label
Slow by name and slow by nature, you'll find a handful of considered designs in classic cuts and some twists on basics thrown in for good measure. Case in point: this boat-neck top with an exposed central seam.
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