7 Women-Owned Brands Rooted In Craft
Our obsession with slow fashion has always been rooted in a belief that it is designed by and for women. From jewelry making in Guatemala to textile embroidery in India, slow fashion is (and always has been) a powerful tool for transforming the lives of women worldwide. This Women’s History Month, we are excited to celebrate the craft techniques that women have been using for centuries to keep the beauty of slow fashion alive.
Starting strong with one of our favorite slow fashion categories: fiber arts. When it comes to knits and crochet, we have to bow down to those working tirelessly to keep this craft alive. The insanely tedious practice is no small feat, and any designer who takes the time (and develops the patience) to work with this medium deserves credit.
If you’re looking for sophisticated knits that experiment with texture, then Milan-based Caro Studios is your girl. Caro, an Italian word used as term of endearment, is best known for her striking knit silhouettes. Her pieces are handcrafted from natural fibers, designed with intention for long-term wear.
Prefer a bit more color? Our go-to for vibrant and playful knits without a doubt is UR GF. Inspired by the women who raised her, designer Makena Andros grew up in awe of seamstresses who explored the endless beauty of fiber arts. Makena’s pieces experiment with color combinations many wouldn’t dare to consider, creating works of art that can be worn from day to night.
Next up: metalwork. There’s something truly incredible about the act of carving a design into wax that magically transforms into a piece of silver jewelry. From start to finish, the process requires an absurd amount of focus and a keen eye for design. (Bonus points for the fact that this technique can be recycled into eternity).
For those who share our love of easy-to-style statement jewelry, the three names you need to know are: Oh Okay, Sunday Feel and Meltdown NYC. These women-owned brands offer a range of pieces, from rings to necklaces to earrings, each with their own personality and flair. Each piece is a sculpture, made with a tremendous amount of time, energy and love.
Last but certainly not least is our current hyper fixation: ceramics. Mugs, plates, bowls, cups — we want it all. As one of the slowest art forms on the planet, ceramics is a reminder to slow down and enjoy the beauty of every day moments. Artisans who transform literal dirt and mud into art will always get our support.
While we appreciate the classic ceramic aesthetics, we’re far more inclined to opt for a piece that has a bit of personality. Whether it’s a polka dot piece by Lore or a flower chalice from High Noon, we’re sure you’ll find something you and your home will love.