Brands I’d like to try in 2019

I’m currently on countdown until I dive into the French Wardrobe challenge, which will see me focus on adding just five key pieces to my closet per season. It’s that strict focus on what is truly essential that has gotten me thinking a lot about what’s missing from my personal style, if anything at all. I’m a maker of lists, and I find it’s the simplest way to keep my resolve and my mission on track. So, I’ve started a running list at the back of my notebook, where I’ve been jotting down style essentials that I feel I’m currently lacking. And alongside that list, I’ve noted a number of brands that I’d like to explore throughout the year, and try and weave into those core wardrobe purchases where I can.

Wearing Uniqlo U t-shirt, ASOS denim skirt (similar here), To Sir With Love cardigan (old but I like this one), Bolon sunglasses, Linjer watch, Orelia bracelet, Amber Sceats earrings

For me, I see this a little bit as an extension of my pursuit of shopping consciously and responsibly. Half the brands on the list are rooted in the slow fashion movement, or have sustainable and/or ethical values which have piqued my interest. But as much as I’d love to rush to support these brands, which I only see as trying to do a bit of good, I’m acutely aware that reducing consumption is a huge part of that sustainable puzzle. I want to be thoughtful about what I do buy, which will be within the limitations of the five-item limit I’ll be shortly imposing on myself.

The other brands on the list are what I’d class as mid-priced or contemporary designers (and which I often see referred to as “upper high street”). In addition to focusing on sustainable and ethical fashion, I’m also planning to commit to purchasing higher quality items, which generally (but not always) come with a higher price tag.

The Brands I’d Like to Try

SEZANE | I think of Sezane as a cool-girl French brand, and it wasn’t until recently that it came to my attention that it’s one with sustainable and ethical values (which you can read about here). It’s their knitwear in particular that really caught my eye, and I’ve been contemplating placing an order for some time in anticipation of A/W 2019. From periodically browsing the site, I’ve noticed that styles and sizes tend to sell out fast; I’m not sure if this is a marketing ploy where each item is made in limited numbers (or slowly), or if their production is at a point where they just can’t service the demand. Either way, their clothing seems to be incredibly popular, and I can see why. Each piece has thoughtful details, giving wardrobe staples a Parisian twist. I personally am quite smitten with this blush pink sweater, and this v-neck pleated top.

REFORMATION | Reformation was one of the brands that I mentioned in a recent video where I put a spotlight on fashion labels that were leading the charge when it comes to sustainable and ethical fashion. A lot of the designs are a bit retro, yet seem slightly trend-led, but the key thing for me is that the fabrics sourced are all deadstock materials. Something I’d love to try as part of my summer wardrobe would be one of their smocked camisoles (which currently seem to be out of stock). From what I could see, there seemed to be options in terms of fun playful prints or simple block colours, and I know that something like this would be a real workhorse as the days get longer and more importantly, hotter. Their dresses are cute too, but I’m still on the fence about whether these are the right fit for my closet. I want to make sure that if I do place an order, anything I do buy has a lasting place in my wardrobe.

VEJA | My favourite podcast of the moment is Wardrobe Crisis by Clare Press, and a few months back she did an interview with Veja co-founder Sebastion Kopp, which really opened my eyes to the good that this brand was doing. The brand focuses on infusing each stage of production with positive impact, through active good. While I wouldn’t say sneakers are a core part of my personal style, I am curious about exploring how they might work with my outfits a bit more – something I plan to do with an existing pair of sneakers I own first.

ELIZABETH SUZANN | I want to say I first stumbled across Elizabeth Suzann about four or five years ago. Maybe even earlier than that. I was searching for silk singlet dresses, and found myself bookmarking many of her simple but luxurious looking designs. Years later, I’ve found myself going back to that very brand, which I think is the epitome of slow fashion (and it’s developed a cult following, too). The styles I currently have on my wishlist have a lead time of 6-8 weeks; buy now, receive when it’s been crafted. Given we seem to be living in an economy with a culture of convenience and see now, want now, have now, this is rare. The one thing I’d really love to try is a pair of her trousers, I just haven’t quite settled on a style yet.

GANNI | This is a brand that kind of had a moment about a year ago, and it’s been on my radar ever since. Despite having a rather neutral and pared back wardrobe, what I love most about Ganni (also here) are the bold in-your-face prints. I’m keeping my eye out for the *right piece* which really sings to my more minimalist soul, and if I can, I’ll be trying to get it on sale.

RIXO | Rixo is a label that I discovered first on Net-a-Porter, and I’ve kept my eye on their new season collections ever since. An overload of sequins isn’t my bag, but I’ve spied some gorgeous wrap skirt styles, and vibrant red florals. A saturated blush pink has by default become a major accent colour in my wardrobe, and I think it might be fun to re-extend this to include a splash of red – possibly in a floral.

ALL SAINTS | Okay so confession time… I finally splurged on my first item from All Saints during the Black Friday sales, and it’s been enough to get me curious about what else the brand has to offer. I’ve been watching the new arrivals section from the sidelines and have loved what I’ve seen of the brand’s A/W collection so far. I love that for the most part, All Saints seems to be focused on elevated wardrobe staples, which is exactly what I’m looking to complement my current closet with. While I’d heard great things about their leather jackets, I’m not even remotely sure where to start when it comes to the other apparel they offer, so any guidance would be hugely appreciated.

REISS | Another one of those traditional UK retailers, there’s a strong focus on beautiful tailoring and clean cut lines. The prices do skew on the higher end of the spectrum, but from what I’ve gathered, it’s more of a premium brand, and the quality speaks for itself. Given I’m going to be limited in what I’ll be adding to my wardrobe next year, I’m not sure that I’ll actually get around to buying anything from the brand, but it’s still one I plan to keep on my radar.

Are there any brands you’d like to try in 2019?