Lirika Matoshi launched her namesake line of handmade accessories in 2016 after moving to New York City. She gained popularity for her hand-embellished tights, glittery dresses and socks, and intricate crystal covered blouses via Instagram—all created without any formal fashion school training. Inspired by her Kosovo-based fashion designer sister, Teuta Matoshi, Lirika learned firsthand the art of fashion design techniques and how to source luxury fabrics and embellishments as an emerging fashion brand.
Now based in New York City, Lirika Matoshi has expanded to include a wide variety of apparel and accessories. The Lirika Matoshi brand is currently made up of 100% women and operates out of a New York City and a Kosovo factory which Lirika and her sisters started from scratch.
English-Bulgarian label Chopova Lowena is rooted in folkloric craftsmanship. Tapping into tradition in a manner which benefits the future, co-founders Emma Chopova and Laura Lowena approach their collections from a sustainable perspective. From schoolgirl minis in jarring colours to box-pleat midis suspended from carabiner clips, Chopova Lowena silhouettes run the gamut. Regardless of cut or style, the traditional Bulgarian bruchnik skirt serves as a creative kickoff. Using overstock and deadstock fabrics from both the US and Italy, the brand prioritises provenance.
Roop uses leftover cuts from factories, secondhand Ebay finds, charity shop and vintage fabrics to create its statement Instagram-worthy bags. Founder Natasha Fernandes Anjo makes each piece by hand into her own designs, which she describes as a blend of “Furoshiki bags meets scrunchie”.
‘I think people are finally tiring of living in a throw away culture. Now more than ever we need to realise there is no “away”. We need to find long lasting joy in the things we own, use what we already have, rent and re-home. These are the fundamentals of Roop, I make and send out my items with so much love and care with the hope that my customers will treasure their pieces’
Husband and wife Ellie and Quang Dinh founded Girlfriend Collective after spotting a gap in the market for luxurious, responsibly produced activewear. Using fabrics made from recycled water bottles, fishing nets and other plastic waste, the brand designs size-inclusive highperformance leggings, tops and sports bras in fresh colorways achieved using eco-friendly dyes.
One for the whimsical, MARY creates and upcycles magical pieces all with the planet in mind. ‘My main aim with MARY is to use what we already have,’ says founder and designer Mary Benson. ‘I source deadstock fabric and design dresses around each roll, I design prints seasonally and re-print the fabric too, so each design is a really special timeless limited edition to treasure forever. Everything is made to order - we don’t make stock for the sake of it.’