8 Cool Brands A Fashion Insider Loves
Images: @CLAUDIALI
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8 Cool Brands A Fashion Insider Loves

If you’re stuck in a style rut, Claudia Li – and her rolodex of cool, up and coming brands – will lift you out of it. She has a knack for uncovering labels that feel genuinely fresh and modern, so we asked her to put together a list of her favourites…
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Images: @CLAUDIALI

IN HOUSE BLEND

In House Blend is a Paris-based, made-to-order label that balances femininity with an almost rebellious edge. Many of the pieces are constructed from recycled vintage lace curtains and textured fabrics, combining asymmetrical tailoring, fringe and sculptural silhouettes. I was immediately drawn to the crochet-like textures and unexpected fabric choices. I still think about the pink parrot skirt I missed out on at least once a week.

Visit INHOUSEBLEND.COM

HERTUNBA

Hertunba is a Nigerian fashion house whose pieces feel closer to wearable art than traditional ready-to-wear. I discovered the brand through Instagram and immediately became obsessed with the sculptural silhouettes, fringe detailing and corsetry that somehow feel both powerful and feminine. What I love most is the way Hertunba weaves traditional Nigerian craftsmanship into modern design, and everything feels like a collector’s piece. Every collection is better than the last.

Visit HERTUNBA.COM

VIN.

Vin. is the sculptural, vintage-inspired bag brand my business partner Gabby Kono-Abdy and I founded. The bags are designed to spark conversation – you’re almost guaranteed to hear, “Wait, where is your bag from?” whenever you carry one. We’ve always been drawn to vintage objects with personality and history, the kinds of pieces that feel like they could have been found in your grandmother’s closet, – that spirit is at the heart of everything we create.

Visit THEVIN.STORE

PACE SHOES

Pace Shoes is a Bangkok-based footwear label specialising in handmade, customisable heels and sandals that feel personal to the wearer. I had the opportunity to customise a few pairs myself, choosing everything from the heel height and fabric to the appliqués and colour combinations, which made the process feel really special. In a world of mass production, there’s something so luxurious about creating a shoe that feels entirely your own.

Visit PACE-SHOES.COM

SEAM THE LABEL

Seam the Label creates elevated occasion wear that instantly makes you want to plan an event or holiday around the outfit. Between the dramatic draping, cascading floral appliqués and feminine silhouettes, every piece feels romantic but wearable. The outfits speak for themselves – all you need is a cool bag and pair of shoes to complete the look. I currently have far too many tabs open trying to decide between the different colourways and floral details.

Visit SHOP-SEAM.COM

KRISTIN MALLISON

Kristin Mallison is a sustainable fashion label creating one-of-a-kind handmade pieces from repurposed materials like vintage upholstery, curtains and antique textiles, often incorporating intricate needlepoint into her garments. The moment I discovered her work, I immediately knew I needed a custom tapestry corset and trouser set featuring my pet pig Stella. It has become one of my most treasured pieces.

Visit KRISTINMALLISON.COM

EL/IF STUDIOS

EL/IF Studios is a handmade, upcycled fashion label rooted in slow craftsmanship that reconstructs vintage garments and gives fabrics a second life. I discovered the brand during a late-night Instagram scroll and instantly fell in love with the romantic draping, floor-length fringe, delicate detailing and the story behind each piece. I’ve since had the pleasure of wearing two designs from the brand, including a custom piece we collaborated on together.

Visit ELIFSTUDIOS.COM

ENVÉ BLEU

Envé Bleu is a jewellery brand that creates playful statement pieces that feel both eccentric and timeless. The collections are full of bold colours, sculptural shapes and a sense of whimsy. I’m especially obsessed with the butter and pistachio earrings – they’re the kind of pieces that instantly transform a simple white t-shirt and tailored trousers but would look just as good at a black-tie dinner. 

Visit ENVEBLEU.COM

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