This month is an excellent one, and not just because we’re experiencing the first signs of spring. March 8th is International Women’s Day (IWD), a day dedicated to recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. While this is something that deserves attention all year round (a belief at the core of our mission here at Refinery29), we’ll take the excuse to devote an entire day to celebrating our ladyhood. In fact, we’ll take 23 of them — because even though IWD is tomorrow, March is Women’s History Month. And the best place to kick off the festivities is by shopping women-owned fashion brands in support of each other.
We operate in a consumer space that’s largely shaped by the convenience of mega-retailers like Amazon and the capacity of fast-fashion labels to spew out trendy garments by the minute. With so much newness happening so quickly, it’s easy to forget about taking a step back and considering the ways our shopping behaviors impact the lives of women. So if there’s anything you do to commemorate IWD, take some time to reflect on your own relationship with retail. Look at the last thing you added to your closet and ask yourself where it was made, who made it, and how much she (because 80% of the time, it’s a woman) actually earned from your purchase. Maybe you know the answers to these questions, maybe you don’t. But we’re here to offer up some tools to make more conscious decisions next time you’ve got the urge to hit *add to cart*.
We can take ownership of our roles as consumers by helping more businesswomen succeed, and by supporting companies with ethical production practices from start to finish. This is our month, ladies, so let’s use it wisely. To start, we’ve come up with a list of female-led fashion brands that aren’t just putting out some of the most sought-after products around, they’re channeling some majorly feminine energy to lift up others along the way. Ahead, discover a handful of women-owned fashion brands that got us excited to shop, and make a purchase that matters this week.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Lele Sadoughi
Lisa ‘Lele’ Sadoughi has been crowned the “headband queen,” and her signature product is beloved by an impressive roster of stars like Kate Middleton, Jennifer Lopez, and Zendaya. And, as a female-founded and female-run brand, supporting creative women in the community is core to the brand’s mission.
Currently, Sadoughi is running the third Annual Headband Design Contest. Ten percent of all the proceeds of the winning design will be donated to Save the Children. The money is set to aid women and children affected by the conflict in Ukraine and the natural disasters in Syria and Turkey.
It’s simple to enter the creative contest; all you have to do is download and decorate the headband design sheet here. Then, email your completed design to marketing@lelesadoughi.com. However, don’t forget to add your first and last name in the subject line by March 31st. The winner will be announced on April 5th. May the best person win!
Lele Sadoughi Jet Ivory Tweed Knotted Headband, $, available at Lele Sadoughi
Eberjey
Eberjey exudes the softer side of life with its cozy sleepwear and luxurious intimates. The brand is known for ultra-soft garments in easy, sophisticated silhouettes with chic prints and flirty accents. Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer Ali Mejia is the creator behind the brand’s designs, and credits mom’s elegant European sleepwear line as her inspiration.
Working alongside Mejia is cofounder Mariela Rovito, a natural-born entrepreneur who handles the company’s logistics, business strategy, and growth. The two brilliant and innovative Latinas combined their strengths and started Eberjey back in 1996.
Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Printed Short PJ Set, $, available at Eberjey
Frasier Sterling
If you’ve ever wondered where your favorite celebs like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner get their whimsical jewelry, there is a good chance it’s Frasier Sterling.
The jewelry brand is a female-owned and operated company with the founder, Frasier Lipton being the designer mastermind. Her mission with the trendy label is “to create cute, affordable pieces so girls can set trends without breaking the bank! I love making pieces that Bella and Gigi Hadid, Sofia Richie, and Madison Beer wear, but everyone else can also afford.”
Frasier Sterling Custom Pearl Princess Necklace, $, available at Frasier Sterling
Wat The Brand
Co-founders Sarah Ellis, Philippa Ross, and Nicky Green created the minimalist clothing line WAT THE BRAND in 2021. Rather than trends, the three promote timeless pieces you can wear for years — think office staples like trousers, striped sweaters, and poplin shirts. Weekend attire like relaxed joggers, ribbed leggings, and loungewear is included as well.
Ellis and Ross collaborate on the style side with their experiences working in fashion, styling, and brand building. Meanwhile, Green is the expert in retail that delivers ideas to creation.
WAT THE BRAND The Ultimate Spring Knit Jumper, $, available at WAT THE BRAND
Kinn
It’s never too early to invest in heirloom jewelry you’ll pass on to future generations. But heirloom-quality jewelry that still feels modern, not fussy, can be hard to find. That’s why CEO and Founder Jennie Yoon created her fine jewelry brand Kinn. She’s designed a myriad of dainty stackable jewelry that complements anyone’s existing collection and only uses sustainable recycled 14k gold.
Along with elegant necklaces of gold herringbone chains and micro-chain anklets, the brand curates unforgettable engagement rings, wedding bands, and heartwarming personalized engraved gifts. If you don’t know where to start, the Dear Kaia nameplate necklaces are our personal favorite and a must-have item.
Kinn Dear Kaia Initial Necklace, $, available at Kinn
Birdy Grey
When it comes to bridesmaid dresses that are accessible and affordable, Birdy Grey does it better than anyone. Best friends and co-founders Grace Lee and Monica Young Ashauer launched the fashion brand in 2018 and since then have created a wedding attire empire. The core of Birdy Grey’s success is its consistent effort to be a size-inclusive brand, with its affordable dresses priced at $99. Unlike the never-ending amount of disposable bridesmaid dresses that immediately retire to the closet after a wedding, Birdy Grey gowns are timeless and fit various occasions.
Birdy Grey Kira One Shoulder Curve Dress In Chiffon Mauve Floret, $, available at Birdy Grey
The Oula Company
When it comes to OULA, you know you’re in for a one-of-a-kind, beautifully patterned piece. Founder and CEO Erika Dalya Massaquoi draws inspiration from her experience traveling the world and vintage clothing collection for every piece.
All the puff sleeve dresses and geo print sundresses from OULA are wearable art. All the attire is created from Ankara (African Wax Fabric) and draws inspiration from vintage ’60s and ’70s silhouettes and the Black Is Beautiful movement. The material is breathable and comfy fabric ideal for these radiant, mix print dresses because of the lively designs on both sides.
the Oula Company Tie Front Split Neck Dress, $, available at Shopbop
Soru Jewelry
Semi-fine jewelry brand Soru is a treasure chest for delicate charms and gems. The label was founded in 2013 by two half-Sicilian half-English sisters, Francesca Kelly and Marianna Doyle, who dream of empowering women with their timeless jewelry.
Perusing the site, you’ll feel like you’ve been transferred to an ethereal mythology and astrology book. (If you have an astrology lover or are one, Soru is your shopping oasis.) Expect radiantly pigmented celestial pendants and rainbow-hued mosaic accessories. You know you’re investing in a treasured piece; every item is made of high-quality materials like solid silver, gold, and natural gemstones. The sparkling and glistening jewelry is designed in the UK but handcrafted in Italy and Turkey by skilled artisans in family-run shops.
Soru Jewelry Mini Luna Earrings, $, available at Soru Jewelry
Jade Swim
JADE SWIM is a minimalist’s go-to swimwear brand. Founder, CEO, and Creative Director Brittany (Kozerski) Freeney is a living testament to the idea that you can create your brand and work full-time. Freeney established JADE SWIM in the summer of 2017 as a fashion editor at Marie Claire. Since then, her company has been 100% women-led, from the publicist, staff, and warehouse team to the owners.
After working in fashion, she noticed a void in the marketplace for high-quality swimwear that could go from poolside to a ready-to-wear piece that can be layered and styled. For instance, her bikini tops and contour one-pieces can easily be dressed up with a loose oversized button-down shirt and high-waisted denim cutoffs for summer.
Jade Swim Apex One-Shoulder Bikini Top, $, available at Nordstrom
Jade Swim Incline Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Nordstrom
Sleeper
Sleeper, the Kyiv-based brand of walking sleepwear made from natural fabrics, was founded in 2014 by Kate Zubarieva and Asya Varets. Within months of the brand’s launch, Vogue Italia’s editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani was singing its praises. But the brand recently came into the spotlight in an unexpected way as its founders and staff struggled to adjust in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Last March, the company was helping relocate employees to a factory in Istanbul in the wake of Russia’s invasion. In December, they debuted a renovation of Sleeper’s Kyiv headquarters. While much of the staff is still working from home or in Istanbul, the renovated office stands as a testament to the founder’s belief they will all be able to return to Kyiv safely.
“We have no doubts that the Sleeper’s home should be located in Ukraine, the country where the brand was born,” the brand said in a statement to design magazine Dezeen. Sleeper’s latest release, Blossom, is also an act of hopeful defiance, inspired by a popular Ukrainian poem “Against All Hope.” For more information about how to help Ukraine, visit Sleeper’s website.
Sleeper Party Pajamas Set With Detachable Feathers In Mint, $, available at Sleeper
Sarah Flint
Dream in wonder with Sarah Flint’s luxurious and timeless Italian-made shoes. We’d like to formally thank Sarah Flint for bringing the world gorgeous ethereal shoes on the outside that are packed with comfort-driven design on the inside. And with the style seal of approval from celebrities like Paris Hilton, Priyanka Chopra, and the Royal Family, the quality of this brand speaks for itself.
Sarah Flint Perfect Mary Jane Pump 70, $, available at Sarah Flint
abacaxi
Although Indian-American designer Sheena Sood’s bright and mindfully-made clothing is inspired by her travel, vibrant colors, and the infinite beauty of nature, Sood’s Indian heritage is the root behind each of her creations. Weaving together bold hues, handcrafted techniques, natural fibers, and an innovative play on traditional silhouettes, abacaxi hybridizes a tropical spirit with an NYC lifestyle.
Abacaxi Flared Slip Dress In Cosmic Gingham, $, available at Abacaxi
Catbird
Rony Vardi launched Catbird in 2004, and it has since evolved into one of the coolest jewelry labels around. The brand’s beloved Bedford Avenue store is home to an assortment of engagement rings, fine jewelry, sweet home decor, and kitschy finds. The shop is single-handedly responsible for introducing us to some of our favorite jewelry brands like Wwake, Jennie Kwon, Satomi Kawakita, and so many more.
Catbird Baby Pearl Hoop, $, available at Catbird
Chelsea Paris
Theresa Ebagua is a Nigerian-born, Los Angeles and London-based footwear designer who launched her label after leaving the tech industry to attend the shoe-making school Ars Sutoria in Italy. The brand is named for her two daughters, who she wanted to feel encouraged by her own success as a Black woman in business. The brand also honors Ebagua’s Nigerian heritage with its unique material combinations, juxtaposed with art deco influences.
Chelsea Paris Ace, Lilac, $, available at Chelsea Paris
Havva
Turkish designer Havva Mustafa comes from a generation of footwear artisans, so it’s no surprise that she went own to launch her own successful, high-quality brand. The streetwear-influenced, luxury footwear label marries careful crafting and handmade details with a sustainable approach to production. The small-batch, waste-conscious collection is made in Turkey in a family-owned factory and counts celebrities like Lady Gaga, Halsey, and Camila Cabello as fans. And, Havva’s signature Flame shoe is so hot, you’ll practically set the concrete on fire with style.
Havva ‘FLAME’ Sandal, $, available at Havva
Stine Goya
Since launching her namesake Scandinavian label in 2006, Central Saint Martins alumna Stine Goya has designed stylish go-to knitwear staples known and loved by style stars such as Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber. Drawing on inspiration from the design and art worlds, each collection features flattering cuts, simple yet quality fabrics, and bespoke hand-drawn prints by the brand’s in-house team based in Copenhagen.
Stine Goya Elena Dress — Crystal Garden, $, available at Stine Goya
Missoma
The much sought-after jewelry brand Missoma was founded by Marisa Hordern, who left her corporate job to create versatile and interchangeable pieces at an affordable price. As the story goes, it all started around her kitchen table with the help of her mother Michele and sister Sophie. The goal? To remind other women of their own creativity and power through accessible design. Missoma quickly grew to become one of Britain’s private companies with the fastest-growing sales, often due to its swoon-worthy collabs like its latest launch with Beijing-based creator Savi.
Missoma Zenyu Fan Necklace, $, available at Missoma
Athleta
There are tons of places to buy leggings out there, but we’ve got our eyes on B Corp-certified Athleta and its hugely female team now led by CEO Mary Beth Laughton. Plus, Athleta has partnered with Frame Therapy to present a range of content, resources, events, and conversations to support overall well-being.
Athleta Salutation Stash 7/8 Tight, $, available at Athleta
Bouguessa
Faiza Bouguessa, founder of her eponymous Dubai-based label, was born and raised in France to Algerian parents. Her designs merge the latest global trends to Middle Eastern design, and she is an important voice in the modest fashion space. Bouguessa’s vision speaks to conservative dressers and not-so-conservative dressers alike, delivering long, sleek silhouettes and conservative, chic style to fashionable women everywhere.
The luxurious brand represents the relevance of modesty in the evolving world of retail, and the importance of identifying and addressing the needs of women that have traditionally been underserved by mainstream fashion companies.
Bouguessa Nahid Cropped Tie-Detailed Grain De Poudre Blazer, $, available at Bouguessa
Theodora Warre
London-based jewelry designer Theodora Warre launched her namesake brand in 2014. She is passionate about ensuring that every gemstone is ethically sourced and spends much of her time in Jaipur visiting the family-run workshops where her pieces are made.
Theodora Warre Zircon & Gold-Plated Bracelet, $, available at MatchesFashion
Hobo
Who doesn’t love a good mother-daughter duo? This family-operated handbag brand was launched in 1991 by Toni Ray and her daughter Koren with the purpose of bringing authentic leather goods to the world that are made to last.
Hobo Bellamy Hobo, $, available at Hobo
La Ligne
This stripe-centric brand was launched by former Vogue editors Meredith Melling and Valerie Macaulay and former Head of Business Development for Rag & Bone, Molly Howard.
La Ligne Tracy Dress, $, available at La Ligne
Kit Undergarments
Kit Undergarments is a line of foundational intimates made accessible to every woman. The line is designed through the lens of a stylist, launched by Jamie Mizrahi and Simone Harouche.
Kit Undergarments The Lounge Kit, $, available at Third Love
Lively
Michelle Cordeiro Grant launched the bra and undie brand Lively in 2016 and has since raised a whopping $15 million in funding. The Victoria’s Secret alumna wanted to create a new and more comfortable kind of lingerie which she’s dubbed Leisurée, blurring the aesthetic lines of lingerie, active, and swimwear.
Lively The All-Day T-Shirt Bra, $, available at Lively
AuH20
AuH2O is a secondhand, vintage, and upcycled shop located in Manhattan named after owner Kate Goldwater (Au=Gold, H2O=water). Goldwater founded the shop in 2006 because she believes the cost of shopping sustainably shouldn’t be prohibitive, and her “thriftique” features a unique and affordable blend of clothing, shoes, accessories, and vintage jewelry. Visit the East Village store, or shop online on Etsy or Depop.
auh2oshop Vintage Turtle Charm, $, available at Etsy
Thousand Fell
If this brand sounds familiar, it could be because you came across one of its ambitious co-founders, Chloe Songer, on this year’s Forbes 30 Under 30 list. The fashion tech startup is championing circularity by creating recyclable sneakers. Its supply chain and products were designed over three years, incorporating tech from across the globe. Once the wearer is ready to get rid of their Thousand Fell kicks, they can simply scan a microchip embedded in the shoes to download a free shipping label for recycling.
Thousand Fell Women’s Lace Up | Jade Awakening, $, available at Thousand Fell
Cleo Wade X Kate Spade New York
Kate Spade will always be revered as one of the most influential figures in fashion, and we are thrilled to see her commitment to uplifting women lives on with her eponymous label. Kate Spade New York’s exclusive partnership with author and community builder Cleo Wade for International Women’s Day celebrates the role that self-love plays in the empowerment journey of women and girls. Our favorite part about the limited-edition capsule collection is that it was produced with a facility in Rwanda that employs over 230 local women, providing them with competitive wages, health benefits for themselves and their households, and access to life skills education programs.
Kate Spade Do It With Love Pullover, $, available at Kate Spade
Outdoor Voices
The fashion world was shocked to learn that Outdoor Voices co-founder Tyler Haney was stepping down from her role as CEO of the company, but that doesn’t change our belief in the brand’s mission to help the world live more active and sustainable lifestyles. As the brand prepares for a new chapter, it’s launching a Powerpuff Girls collab inspired by the iconic trio of superhero sisters who are fierce advocates for women and empower others to stand together. Outdoor Voices will also be donating 15% of shop sales to ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project on March 8th.
Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Rosetta Getty
Rosetta Getty’s label of the same name is the epitome of luxury. The LA-based designer and mother of four delivers sleek silhouettes crafted from opulent fabrics and unique textures. Rosetta Getty’s aesthetic is effortlessly sophisticated, and the brand’s sustainable ECCO collection of clogs is way at the top of our spring must-have lists. The designer also collaborates with a different artist every season to shape the palette, fabrics, and mood of the collection while amplifying the work of other creatives.
Rosetta Getty Shearling Clogs, $, available at Farfetch
Shayne
This size-inclusive brand was founded by sisters Rebecca and Samantha Lanman in 2018. The pair is committed to partnering with local New York City experts to create high-quality, standout pieces for women ranging from sizes 0 to 18. We love the fact that each piece is designed to fit two or more traditional sizes, with adjustable straps, buttons, or ties to adapt to your body type. And, on March 8th, Shayne is offering 20% off site-wide.
Shayne The Hayden Wrap Skirt, $, available at Shayne
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