An Ode to Indie Brands and the 13 Pieces High on My Wish List this Summer

Avalon Afriyie

One of the perks of being a shopping editor is witnessing the rise of independent brands and championing them. The prevalence of indie labels feels like a rebellion against fast fashion names and shoppers are following suit and leaning toward alternatives. We’ve seen the increasing demand for pre-loved curations, made-to-measure and slow productions, which makes the process of shopping more consciously a pleasure.

Sustainable shopping has come a long way from languid frocks in fabrications of a similar ilk. Now, some brands that are most intentional about their impact are in direct competition with their counterparts — producing directional designs, considered cuts and utilising luxe fabrications with longstanding appeal. Keep scrolling to discover the 13 pieces I’m coveting this summer. Many of these are transitional, so you can layer or shed them as per the forecast and occasion.

2023s overstated jewellery trend has inspired larger-than-life jewels and I’m fully on board the gold-clad train. I’ve assessed the trend long enough to deduce that it’s a style I’m likely to inherit as part of my uniform. I have always had a thing for ’80s-style doorknocker studs, after all.

I’m a firm believer that everyone could benefit from an LBD and 2023 is the year I’ve fully embraced figure-hugging styles. There are ample styling opportunities with this piece — wear it with anything from trainers to sling-back heels for an elevated evening look.

Ever a Baserange advocate I’ve ticked this piece off my wish list as I know it’s a dress with longstanding appeal. Like most of Baserange’s pieces, it’s crafted from organic cotton that becomes more supple with wear.

A linen skirt is a staple piece in my wardrobe and one I continue to wear in the cooler months with knitwear layered atop. I adore Carla Diogo’s classic design and subtle tailored features.

From a casual brunch to an alternative wedding guest bag, Porto Studio’s pouch bag is a piece that’ll work extra hard, ensuring the cost-per-wear element. Not to mention, it’s a work of art.

You may be familiar with Bohème for its renowned tie top but its other offerings are just as dreamy. Case in point — ‘the dress’. As the name suggests, it’s simple and understated bearing just the right amount of impact thanks to the voluminous sleeve detail.

There’s nothing quite like a crisp poplin shirt during the summer months. I’d pair this with the linen skirt, earrings, pouch bag and slip-on Mary-janes in this edit!

Once upon a time, I was obsessed with ‘50s style dresses but then Don’t Worry Darling reaffirmed my love for exaggerated skirting. I adore Coco Conran. Not only for its slow fashion approach and alluring designs but the fact they cater for an array of sizes.

The chicest Mary-Jane iteration you did ever see. I’ve been enjoying city jaunts in them and I can report they’re as comfortable as they are stylish.

Once again, I’m blown away by Ninety Percent. The ruched design will enable you to wear this in many ways. There’s an art to this dress as it looks beautifully unique on every body.

Milaner specialises in woven accessories in a plethora of sizes and designs. The patina gets more charming with age, so these are pieces to invest in for life.

I become more enamoured by Christopher Esber’s designs each season. Curate & Rotate is offering the opportunity to add one of his pieces to your wardrobe at a discounted price.

The revived waistcoat trend has the potential to transition from a current to a wardrobe staple. Work relaxed silhouettes into an intentional wardrobe and wear it for years to come.