Puppets and Puppets

Check out Puppets and Puppets, the NYC-based brand that’s all about breaking the mold. Led by Carly Mark, this brand started with playful vibes but has levelled up to more edgy aesthetics with lush velvets, blinged-out dresses, and food-inspired bags that are straight-up wild. Despite its global success and recognition from megastar celebrities, Mark steadfastly preserves her unique design ethos that transcends traditional fashion boundaries. The fusion of her fine arts background and unconventional approach creates a captivating brand that continually offers a fresh perspective to fashion, assuring that Puppets and Puppets remain anything but predictable. Their signature 3D snack design bags are a visual delight, but their entire ready-to-wear line is just as whimsical.

Private Policy

Founded by Haoran Li and Siying Qu, this brand is all about making a statement on social issues. It is an inclusive, New York-based fashion brand that champions genderless designs. Garnering recognition with Forbes China’s 30 under 30 list and as finalists in the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, the duo has created global influence, with collections sold at prestigious outlets like Selfridges and Holt Renfrew. Their rebellious, non-conformist approach to fashion not only breaks gender norms but also contributes to the dialogue around significant societal topics.

Collina Strada

Collina Strada, led by Hillary Taymour, is here to remind us that fashion is for everyone. This NYC-based label celebrates diversity and authenticity, with collections that shout out to all ages and identities, often featuring older models in eclectic styles. The brand’s collections are influenced by the current social and political environment. Committed to sustainability, Collina Strada collaborates with organizations like the OR Foundation, uses sustainable materials, and is developing an organic Sweat and Tee program.

Vaquera

If you like your fashion bold and unconventional, you’ll love Vaquera. This brand is creating a major buzz with its out-of-the-box designs. The label, founded by Patric DiCaprio and Bryn Taubensee, is loved by fearless dressers, including celebrities like Rihanna and Tessa Thompson. Although they started their journey in small towns, moving to New York rekindled their love for avant-garde fashion, leading to their distinct fantasy-inspired collections. When the brand faced financial difficulties, it received support from Adrian Joffe and James Gilchrist, key figures at Dover Street Market and Comme des Garçons America. Since then, Vaquera has presented its collections in Paris, aiming to expand its presence in Europe. Despite the challenges of growth, Taubensee and DiCaprio have managed to stay true to their unique creative vision.

Luar

Raul Lopez is a renowned fashion designer based in New York. He co-founded the influential fashion label Hood By Air before launching his own brand, Luar. Drawing on his Dominican roots and NYC experiences, Raul’s designs tell a story that’s all his own. Following some financial challenges, Lopez partnered with Kerby Jean-Raymond’s talent incubator. His unique Ana bag has since become a significant success, contributing to 60% of the brand’s revenue. As Luar continues to grow, Lopez stays committed to sharing his unique narrative and creative vision through his designs.

Melitta Baumeister

Melitta Baumeister is an avant-garde fashion designer originally from Germany, now operating out of New York. Her eponymous brand, co-established with visual artist Paul Jung in 2013, has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative use of materials and form. Baumeister’s first collection gained traction after being promoted by VFiles and later sold in Dover Street Market, increasing her international recognition. From being named one of Vogue’s talents in Dubai to exhibiting at the prestigious Cooper Hewitt Triennial, Melitta Baumeister is a name to remember.

Featured image @instagram – melittabaumeister