HIDDEN GEMS

I always get told that I find set apart pieces or where should one shop to find unique pieces. From there, a conversation is had about a fab girl or fly guy’s interest in fashion style that goes well beyond popularity, mainstream brands or general designer pieces that do not truly equate to an individual considered stylish. The brands I am sharing today are not literally hidden or part of some secret society.

Hidden gems in fashion refer to unique pieces that hold value, creativity. quality and style. They don’t fall under mainstream trends and fast fashion. I would rather say they fall under the awareness of those who truly like fashion style, quality, art, creativity and a deeper look into what or who is behind the brand. If any of the brands below pique your interest or are new to you, make sure to add them as inspiration to a future introduction to your wardrobe.

SOURCE UNKNOWN

Source Unknown was founded in March 2020 and is amongst the newest cult favorites. I remember making my first order during the pandemic. The brand is based in Korea (be mindful of such and the return policy upon placing an order); sizing mostly tends to lean more on the smaller end than average or oversized Amercian sizing. The size charts are your best friend, so make sure to refer to such before purchasing a particular item.

The pieces are comprised of a mix between what’s trending and what transcends seasons. I deem it as attainable luxe that also errs on the side of side of sustainability. The aesthetic mirrors Nanushka and The Frankie Shop. If you don’t want to look like the masses and prefer to find something fitting for your taste or body type, then consider @sourceunknown_official.

KWAME ADUSEI 

The namesake brand was founded by Ghanian designer Nana Kwame Adusei in 2021. It is a luxury brand focused on comfort, fit, and a deep respect for the human form. The brand is a culmination of West African roots translated to a global audience with a perspective founded in androgyny and sophistication. Versatility is an integral part of Kwame’s design language, as well as gender fluidity. Anyone (male/female) can wear the brand’s trousers and a host of other genderless pieces.

Los Angeles is the canvas for Adusei’s creativity. Celebrities like Ciara, Lori Harvey and Halle Bailey have been spotted in the bold and sexy designs. If you like design-forward basics to elaborate couture level pieces, the @kwameaduseionline brand is definitely one to introduce within your wardrobe.

MCMULLEN

I am a sucker for glossy magazines. I picked up Sweet July by Ayesha Curry, a few years back and discovered @shopmcmullen; McMullen was featured in the magazine; it instantly piqued my interest. The boutique was founded in 2007 by Sherri McMullen in Oakland, CA. The brand is an all-inclusive concept shop for luxury fashion featuring emerging and established designers. Sherri has a profound dedication to advertising for BIPOC designers. She has uplifted emerging talents (i.e. Christopher John Rogers, Diotima, Khiry, Aisling Champs and more) who have risen to prominent voices in the fashion industry.

The boutique is globally minded and deemed one of the fastest growing Black and female owned luxury omni retailers in the country. The brand’s commitment also extends beyond fashion and is dedicated to female empowerment and championing African and African American apparel and accessory designers. McMullen also features a curation of highly coveted brands like Tibi, Lisa Folawiyo, Dries Van Noten and more.

 

DUCIE LONDON  

Founded in 2004, @ducielondon has evolved into an internationally recognized label blending contemporary design with timeless elegance. DUCIE is a love letter to London Street style, perfectly meshing classic shapes with an urban vibe comprised of props of color, inspired by its founder, Ducie Keam-George’s mother’s native Barbados. DUCIE caught my eye because of its fabulous winter coats. The fur coats are perfection. One is on my wish list and when I get it, don’t play with her aka “DWPH” will be my motto. If you stan main character energy, then DUCIE is right up your alley.

PUBLISHED BY 

PUBLISHED BY is an Austrian studio, merging the art of 3D modeling and production with precise craftmanship to create sculptural accessories.  The bags are reflective of irregular shapes that seem quite futuristic. The brand borrows from the automotive and high-tech industries which, makes its unique pieces an aesthetic beyond creative boundaries. Founder and Creative Director, Christoph Tsetinis is Austrian, lives and works in Vienna with his partner Ruby Wallen who is Managing Director of the company. It’s sculptural and gender-neutral bags are perfect for the fab girls and fly guys who like to stand out from the crowd. @publishedby accessories are suitable for a multitude of events and occasions.

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