Forget dominating an entire fashion industry.
These labels are satisfied with perfecting a single category (or two).
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Modern fashion is a business built on three words: more, next, now.
These days, brands that start small-batch may stay that way for a decade, tops.
Nap dresses now come with sister matching sets and accessories for all waking hours.
(Usually, its durable materials, slow production, and the human touch.)
A handful of designers are bucking the growth-at-all-costs trend by showing restraint and staying small.
They remind us that true style doesnt mean becoming all things to all shoppers at warp speed.
Sometimes, thriving means doing just one thing exceptionally well.
Theyre simple but effectiveJ.Crew women’s creative directorOlympia Gayotwas so smitten, shecollaborated with the label three times.
Our sizing system creates room for bodies that don’t always fit the standard.
The duo got into eyewear after noticing most other brands craft frames based on measurements for Caucasian faces.
Each frame is inspired by the duos British-Ugandan heritage, showcased in angular shapes and cant-miss colors.
Every buckle is custom cast to a metal mold, just like a piece of fine jewelry.
It also inspired a few imitators afterKendall Jennertest-drove one.
Sisters Viola and Vera Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga created their whimsical velvet slipper brand in 2015.
The upscale flats crafted at Vibi are a bit of the past meeting the present.
Her Mexican heritage influences each piece, so when clients wear their headgear, they tap into her spirit.
Out went the ultra-pointed toes and heels stacked for getting into a saddle.
Nearly two years in business have proven just how luxurious these down-to-earth boots can be.
Actually, theyre a sampling of Jean Prouniss brand.
Inspired by her Greek heritage and ancient civilizations, Prounis infuses her pieces with timeless shapes and rare materials.
Every single museum-worthy item is handcrafted and made to order in a Manhattan Jewelry District studio.
Only, these treasures arent meant to be stored behind glass.
Every glove, from fingerless drivers to Old Hollywood opera pairs, is handmade in the U.S.
Here, even storage is sophisticated.
Founder Nicholas Tan unitedCharli XCXsclub-rat gear,Olivia Rodrigospunk-rock staples, andTaylor Swifts demure date-night outfitsunder its Nirvana bag.
As for the rest of us?
Starting at $340, its an accessible option for high-quality leather bags.
Tans team has always taken things slow for the sake of doing them well.
This branddoeshave ambitions in other categoriesbut it’s putting craftsmanship above rapid expansion.
That lone style isalready sold out.
No doubt, it’s on the It girls' wish lists right alongside the next bag silhouette.
This story appears inMarie Claire’s2025 Craftsmanship Issue.
Thanks to a rise of menopause makeovers, you dont have to.
These dystopian books imagine a future where the worst has already happened.
Price of entry: a Reformation sweater.
An elegant shoe trend is taking their place.
Out with the moody basics, in with spring pastels.
Build it in an instant.
I’m suddenly inspired to give them a shot.
No other style has such a broadand famousfan base.
If she wears a pair, I’m buying it.
