It's no surprise that due to the spread of COVID-19 [1], businesses in cities all over the world have been taking a hit, and this holds true with some of our favourite fashion brands, too. Many major retailers like Aritzia and Outdoor Voices have taken key measures to shut down their brick-and-mortar stores [2] to help ensure the safety of its employees and customers, but smaller brands are finding it harder to stay afloat with these measures in place. While we're all practicing social distancing and working from home, there are small things we can do to help pay it forward within the industry, whether it's by buying a sweater or picking up a gift card.
If you're looking for small fashion businesses [3] to support at this time, we've compiled a list of brands that could use your help right now. It doesn't matter whether you're purchasing something to wear to an event in the future or you're adding to your loungewear collection so you'll have something to wear around the house that makes you feel good (because why shouldn't you dress up at home [4] if it helps you find some normalcy?). Ahead, we've created a list of brands that could use a little love. Keep reading to see 21 labels you can shop, then check out a list of brands donating to charities [5] during this critical time of need.
Rezek Studio
Rezek Studio [7] is an LA-based brand that creates "colourful, disco-inspired silhouettes designed to flatter and hug you just right."
Rezek Studio Foxy Martini Dress
Rezek Studio Foxy Martini Dress [8] ($245)
Susan Alexandra
Susan Alexandra is an NYC-based brand that creates whimsical beaded bags [9] and jewellery.
Susan Alexandra Mini Leopard Bag
Susan Alexandra Mini Leopard Bag [10] ($175)
Entireworld
Entireworld [11] is a collection of sustainable, affordable pieces like sweatpants, and t-shirts that belong in anyone's closet.
Entireworld Sweatshirt
Entireworld Sweatshirt [12] ($88)
Lisa Says Gah
The SF-based boutique and online store helps bring independent designers from all over the globe. Think brands like Paloma Wool, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, and a namesake brand among others.
Lisa Says Gah Paloma Wool Coyote Jacket
Lisa Says Gah Paloma Wool Coyote Jacket [13] ($173)
Evewear
The L.A. sleepwear brand uses recycled fabrics and has a collection of dreamy prints and retro silhouettes.
Evewear The Tomboy
Evewear The Tomboy [14] ($150)
Freda Salvador
Freda Salvador is a San Francisco-based boutique shoe label. The brand's designs are cut and sewn in a small family run factory in the town of Elda, Spain.
Freda Salvador Keen Mule
Freda Salvador Keen Mule [15] ($350)
Parade
If you're looking for an affordable underwear brand that's also sustainable, look no further than Parade. The comfy styles start at just $9.
Parade Boyshort
Parade Boyshort [16] ($13)
Rhode
Rhode is a collection of romantic, holiday-ready dresses that was started by long-time friends Purna Khatau and Phoebe Vickers.
Rhode Piper Dress
Rhode Piper Dress [17] ($445)
Wolf Circus
The Vancouver-based jewellery brand has quickly become a fashion girl favourite with its affordable baubles and necklaces.
Wold Circus Small Glass Hoops in Blue
Wold Circus Small Glass Hoops in Blue [18] ($155)
The Line by K
The Line by K is an LA-based brand created in 2015 by Karla Deras. The designer creates clothes focusing around the goal that basics don't have to be basic.
The Line by K Daisy Cardigan Sand
The Line by K Daisy Cardigan Sand [19] ($159)
Boyish Jeans
LA-based Boyish Jeans [20] creates vintage-inspired jeans using sustainable fabrics. The brand uses one-third the amount of water used to make a regular pair of jeans.
Boyish Jeans The Dempsey
Boyish Jeans The Dempsey [21] ($158)
Aries
If you're looking for a streetwear brand to support right now, check out Aries. The London-based brand has an array of tie-dye sweatshirts and sweatpants that look extemely cosy.
Aries No Problemo Tie Dye Sweat
Aries No Problemo Tie Dye Sweat [22] ($215)
Shop Pêche
The Williamsburg-based shop has a range of affordable shoes and clothes that all have a vintage feel.
Peche Sacha Sandals
Peche Sacha Sandals [23] ($92)
Hart Studio
For jewellery that'll brighten up your day, turn your attention to Hart Studio. The brand has everything from quirky smiley face pendants to custom charm necklaces.
Hart Hagerty Necklace
Hart Hagerty Necklace [24] ($55)
Christy Dawn
Looking for dreamy prairie-inspired dresses? Christy Dawn's designs help you look and feel good, thanks to its use of sustainable fabrics.
Christy Dawn The Basil Dress
Christy Dawn The Basil Dress [25] ($298)
Dear Frances
Dear Frances creates high-quality shoes that are hand-made in Italy using age-old techniques that have been passed down through generations of artisans.
Dear Frances Cube Boot
Dear Frances Cube Boot [26] ($550)
Catbird
Catbird is a Brooklyn jewellery shop that has quickly become a staple in New York. The jewellery is made with recycled or fair-trade gold in the brand's Brooklyn studio.
Catbird NYC Baby Pearl Hoop
Catbird NYC Baby Pearl Hoop [27] ($436)
Stevie Howell
Stevie Howell is a California-based designer whose printed pajamas, robes, and dresses will spark joy.
Passion Flower Cotton Pajama Set
Passion Flower Cotton Pajama Set [28] ($180, originally $300)
SVNR
Pronounced souvenir, the brand's jewellery is made from found, re-used, up-cycled and natural materials.
SVNR Nassau Earrings
SVNR Nassau Earrings [29] ($150)
Whimsy and Row
The eco-conscious clothing line from L.A. has an array of dresses and tops that are perfect for everyday wear.
Whimsy & Row Laura Top in Sage
Whimsy & Row Laura Top in Sage [30] ($118)
Hero Shop
The SF-based store and online boutique, which was started by former Vogue editor Emily Holt, has an array of curated ready-to-wear, jewellery, shoes, bags.
Hero Shop The Faryn
Hero Shop The Faryn [31] ($248)
