Five lesser-known brands I found on Instagram and love
Other than being swarmed with pictures of Stormi Webster and videos of iconic Beyonce performances (this says a lot about me), the explore page is quite possibly the best place to discover lesser-known brands. From young London designers hustling from home to content creators turned fashion CEOs; here are six of my favourite brands, all found on that app we love, Instagram.
Kai Collective
There’s a high chance you already know about this brand. And that would it make total sense considering the Beebeta dress has become famous among the fashionistas on the gram. Owned by luxury aesthetics extraordinaire, Fisayo Longe. After spending five years growing her social media presence and personal style, Longe launched Kai Collective in 2016. Better than most, the collection doesn’t just stop at a size 14 or 16. Having just extended the sizing to 20, Longe aims to create a brand that is inclusive. So, if Fisayo Longe and Kai Collective weren’t on your radar before, they definitely should be now.
Dixie Graze
DIXIEGRAZE by Hanna might be my favourite brand for gold accessories. The self-professed creator and DIY Queen uses her travels, love for architecture and vintage jewellery trends to inspire her creations. From her customizable name necklaces that feel like a homage to the ’80s when name necklaces first became popular among African Americans, to the ‘Oh Mary‘ chain. The desire to purchase everything online and layer them as perfectly as the brand’s gram shows, is there every time a new post is uploaded.
M Style Brand
I’m not sure if it’s sparkles or the fact that the owner is Bajan (as am I) that draws me to this brand, but M Style Brand is the brand for girls who love diamonds – on a budget. Want hand candy? Well, this is the place for it. Reminiscent of Kylie Jenner, Heather Sanders and every other LA IG star with money; M Style Brand is a fire sign in the form of jewellery. Extra! And for this Sagittarius, it’s a yes, please, I’ll take two.
Lirika Matoshi
With over 400,000 followers, it could be argued that this brand is pretty well known. This New-York based brand offers the type of clothes I’d like to be buried wearing. Morbid? Maybe. But, from their cloud-like designs fit for an angel to their mesh strawberry and star dresses, I am constantly daydreaming about the day I open my wardrobe and see one of these dresses hanging in there. But until then, I’ll continue to scroll and imagine wearing the sequin stripe mini dress.
Miss Lola
Known mostly for their shoes, Miss Lola shocked me last month when I discovered their curve collection. Offering stylish, flattering and cute pieces; Miss Lola is the brand to go to if the usual online retailers fail you. Based in California, you can forget only seeing black and mute coloured dresses. Who knew a shoe brand could get it so right?!
Opening image: @KaiCollective
