New York tends to get all the attention when it comes to emerging fashion brands, and as an L.A. native, I’m starting to get a little jealous. The East Coast has long garnered the spotlight as the fashion capital of the country, but, biased as I may be, there’s a lot going on on the Pacific side of the mainland US that’s just as buzzworthy.
In fact, I hate even comparing the two cities because they’re so different that it’s not even worth it, but I have a feeling this rivalry will continue. That’s why I’m going out of my way today to talk about Los Angeles’ thriving scene of small indie and emerging brands. Don’t worry, I’m not bashing New York. I’m just saying that these are the LA clothing brands that everyone in fashionable LA knows, but wouldn’t tell their New York friends about right away. We have to have our own cool stuff, right?
Naturally, the overall theme of the following 10 brands is the laid-back, fun, and dare I say, “chilled out” vibe that this sunny city is so well known for. In the roundup below, you’ll find everything from retro-inspired disco pants to romantic lingerie and cool basics. You might be tempted to say that LA is the better coast (if so, I’ve taught you well).
1. Donny
Long before the pandemic made cool loungewear a major fashion focus, Donnie was busy mastering the category. His luxe essentials are made in a range of serotonin-inducing colors and the softest fabrics, and his lines almost always come with matching sets for the ultimate in style and comfort.
2. Line by K
The Line by K’s website states, “The Line by K is a love letter to the women in my life who embody fearlessness and an encouragement to women who wear these pieces to do the same.” Clothing brands that make it a priority to empower women and create pieces that make them feel their best are brands I want to wear. Their pieces are so simple, yet sophisticated. If you haven’t tried The Line by K, start with their basic tops and dresses. You won’t be disappointed.
The Line by K
Mad Long Sleeve Top
The Line by K
Lenny Dress
The Line by K
Cathal T-shirt
3. Gil Rodriguez
Eliana Gil Rodriguez’s eponymous line focuses on a few things and does them extremely well, such as simply cut bodysuits and cotton pieces that evoke the late ’80s and early ’90s, all ethically and transparently handmade in downtown Los Angeles.
Gil Rodriguez
Black “El Tigre Chiquito” long-sleeve T-shirt
Gil Rodriguez
Brown “The Tube” Midi Dress
Gil Rodriguez
Black “El Tigre” bodysuit
4. Rails
You’ve probably heard of Rails, but we don’t expect you to know who Rails is, and that’s because the line has become one of the best-kept wardrobe staple secrets in all of Hollywood, with celebs flocking to the brand for their selection of easy-going button-downs and breezy sundresses carefully crafted from the softest fabrics.
rail
Lindy wool and cashmere cardigan
rail
Joel Ruch funnel neck top
rail
Torea pleated sleeveless top
5. La Causa
There are basics, and really good basics, and fans of Lacausa fall squarely into the latter category, thanks to their understated, relaxed fits and the brand’s commitment to sustainable practices.
La Causa
Superfine Nash Button Up
La Causa
Sweater Ribbed Turtleneck
6. Anemos
Los Angeles-based Anemos, a retailer of ’90s-inspired beachwear and swimwear, is a minimalist’s dream. What started as a sleek bikini line has evolved into the go-to vacation line for the most stylish women.
Anemos
Bell sleeve boxy cropped knit
Anemos
Keyhole one piece swimsuit
Anemos
Harlow bias-cut stretch cupro slip dress
7. Prettys
Stylist Linda Meltzer is the one who started the baby t-shirt craze in the ’90s. Her shrunken, cropped tees were worn by nearly every style icon of the decade, fictional and real, from Jennifer Aniston in Friends to the cast of Clueless. Pretties is the modern-day version of her ’90s project, ensuring that the OG baby t-shirt and other pieces like lace camisoles are still popular today.
Prettys
V-neck ruffled cha-cha dress
Prettys
Cute ready-to-wear
Prettys
Bidi Bidi Bom Bom Snap Neck Baby T-Shirt Reprint
8. Calle del Mar
California-born Aza Ziegler launched Calle Del Mar while studying fashion design in New York, and we think of Calle Del Mar as a quintessentially Californian brand (the name basically translates to “beachside street.”) The knitted varsity stripe tee is the perfect piece to pair with denim cutoffs and sandals for a trip to the beach.
Calle del Mar
Ribbed flare pants
Calle del Mar
+ Net sustain rib knit cardigan
Calle del Mar
ribbed midi skirt
9. Lezek Studio
Rezek Studio is a new line of silk, disco-inspired pieces designed to hug every inch of your body. Team a boogie dress with strappy sandals or a foxy top with vintage jeans for a warm-weather night out. Each piece is special, yet versatile.
Rezek Studio
Scarlet Hustle Pants Long
Rezek Studio
pearl martini dress
Rezek Studio
Copper Star Corset
10. Luna
Co-founded by L.A. cool girl Lauren Alexander, LNA is a line that’s not basic: expect sexy yet easy-to-wear staple wardrobe pieces, like single-shoulder tank tops and cut-out dresses, made from soft, supple fabrics.
LNA
Dalston Brushed Rib Long Sleeve
This post was previously published and has since been updated.
