When it comes to fashion, we hear about the “classic” brands like Alexander McQueen, Prada, Chanel, and Versace. What we fail to remember is that the fashion world encompasses hundreds of different brands and designers. Between all the new trends and different seasons, some designers often fade into the background.
Here are 5 fashion designers we want you to know!
Carly Cushnie
In 2008, Carly Cushnie joined forces with Michelle Ochs to create the brand ‘Cushnie et Ochs.’ Her fashion line features a collection of body-contouring designs that are enhanced with bold colors and cut-outs. The designs are featured in hundreds of stores including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue. No stranger to the red carpet, Cushnie et Ochs designs have been seen on many stars. Some of these celebrities include Reese Witherspoon, Rihanna, and Michelle Obama.
Darlene & Lizzy Okpo
Sisters Darlene and Lizzy Okpo created the brand ‘William Okpo’ and named it after their father. Not only is this brand a tribute to their father, but they chose to incorporate the style of their Nigerian parents with American culture. With their most recent collection revolving around chambray, they are never afraid to dabble in eccentric designs. As can be seen from the image, often times their designs are matched with vibrant colors.
Duro Olowu
Duro Olowu might be a name you’re familiar with whether you’ve caught his designs on Michelle Obama or in JCPenney. A native of Nigeria, Duro Olowu studied law and after he stepped into the fashion world with his very own brand. His London-based brand quickly took off. In 2013 he collaborated with JCPenney and released some of his signature pieces into the stores. He is also a favorite of First Lady Michelle Obama who has worn his vibrant designs multiple times.
Stella Jean
Although born and raised in Rome, Stella Jean takes her style and design inspiration for her Creole heritage. Not only does she take inspiration from these regions, but she also works closely with African and Haitian artisans in Burkina Faso, Mali, Jacmel, Port-au-Prince, and Croix-des-Bouquets. Having only worked in the fashion world for a few years, Stella Jean has already captured the attention of Giorgio Armani and her designs have been seen on Rihanna and Beyonce.
Tracy Reese
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Tracy Reese moved to NYC to study at the famous Parsons School of Design. After graduating and working at a series of design houses, Reese started her own brand in 1998. Quickly making a name for herself, her designs were found in stores like Bloomingdales, Bergdorf Goodman, and Nordstrom. Although she has always been a well-known name in fashion, her brand gained even more recognition when Michelle Obama wore a custom piece for her 2012 DNC Convention Speech.
With so many of the same brands taking up commercial time and space on your Instagram feed, it’s hard to remember the ‘boutique’-like brands that have just as many beautiful designs. Clothes are a necessity and there is no such thing as too much! When you check out these designers, you will most likely end up with a ton more!
