Here Are 10 Women-Run Streetwear Brands You Need to Know
For women, by women.
It’s no secret that streetwear has long been a boy’s game. Though women have established themselves as innovators, designers and influencers in the arena, there is a clear disparity in the amount of brands that have women in decision-making positions. This results in clothing that misses the mark or marketing campaigns that completely ignore half of the population. A woman’s voice and perspective is invaluable in this field and some retailers are just beginning to notice this.
In honor of International Women’s Day, we’ve rounded up ten streetwear brands that are run and/or owned by women. Keep reading to pick up some new wardrobe favorites and support a fellow lady.
Aries
CLARE SHILLAND/Aries
Aries was co-founded by Italy-native Sofia Prantera who embraced rave culture as the inspiration behind her designs. She continues to explore subculture through her silhouettes which represent the youth. The most popular items from the brand include its logo T-shirts and silk track pants.
Ashley Williams
Ben Awin/HYPEBAE
Ashley Williams was established in 2013 serving as a must-have label for all UK cool girls. The ever-changing energy of London serves as the inspiration behind the brand’s subversive fashion. Chances are you’ve spotted one of AW’s bedazzled hair pins or a see-through shirt turned your head on the street. Williams continued to push the boundaries keeping free women in mind as her forever muse.
Frankie Collective
Frankie Collective
Frankie Collective is definitely a brand that HYPEBAEs need to know about. The e-tailer designs and sells reworked garments from Supreme, Champion and Kappa that all have one-of-a-kind flair. Women run the show at Frankie and it definitely shows through the clothing quality. Its creative director, Sara Gourlay, prides herself on making both sustainable and stylish pieces that women can feel comfortable in.
HLZBLZ
OnTheBlockShop
HLZBLZ was created by former Rocawear designer Lawn Alabanza-Barcena in 2005. The label merges New York and California street style to form bold garments that make a statement. Female empowerment lies at the center of its ethos and that can be seen throughout its collections. Always ahead of the trends, the brand recently released an “Oprah 2020” hoodie that calls for the media mogul to become president of the United States. What can’t women do?
Hyein Seo
017
Pieces from Seoul-based label Hyein Seo have been spotted on streetwear enthusiasts like Rihanna and Aleali May. The brand was established in 2014 by South Korean designer Hyein Seo who perfectly marries the best elements of women’s and men’s clothing. Its SS19 collection was inspired by Street Fighter character Chun Li offering a utilitarian view of modern athleisure. Ladies who wish to challenge the style status quo should definitely explore the Hyein Seo catalogue.
LIV Streetwear
Eddie Lee/HYPEBAE
Founder and lead designer of LIV Streetwear, Olivia Anthony, brought her dreams to reality through fashion. Beginning her line in her college dorm room, Anthony created clothing that merged the ’90s aesthetic with elements of athleisure, forming cozy gear with an edge. Her latest collection, “My Love Letter to Our Culture” highly references street style but has a unisex appeal that is very wearable.
MadeMe
MadeMe
MadeMe‘s motto is “for girls, by girls.” The New York City imprint was established in 2007 as a physical manifestation of youth energy. It holds a female-first ethos that shapes all of its design decisions and collaborations. Recent partnerships with LeSportsac and Converse have become staple items in our favorite Instagram photos.
Melody Ehsani
Eddie Lee/HYPEBAE
Melody Ehsani is a force to be reckoned with. Behind the bold streetwear and jewelry label is a graceful woman on a mission to promote equality. Her creations have been spotted on stars like Lauryn Hill and the leading ladies of Insecure and Creed II. She recently opened a store in the heart of NYC’s SoHo neighborhood breaking up the boy’s club and adding a strong feminine presence.
MISBHV
ISSAC LAM/@ISSACLAM_
Polish designer duo Natalia and Kate launched the first MISBHV women’s collection in 2016 and never looked back. The pair take feminine streetwear to a new level infusing the line with a sense of individuality and raw emotion. Pieces range from unapologetically boyish to incredibly sexy giving women a choice in how much they choose to cover or reveal. Our favorite items from the line are its logo hoodie and belt bag that are both perfect for the spring.
X-girl
X-Girl
The ’90s live on in X-girl‘s collections. The brand was founded by Kim Gordon and stylist Daisy von Furth who wished to create clothing for women who enjoy the carefree look of the decade. A-line dresses and logo sweatshirts have been weaved into its DNA creating what we know today as a cozy girl. The most recent X-girl collaboration was with photographer Shaniqwa Jarvis showcasing her epic imagery on tees.
