Small Business Brands So Cool You’ll Forget About the Mall for Good
In theory, we’d love to shop from cool, new indie brands all the time. But if we’re being honest, life sometimes gets the better of us and all too often we end up at the mall when we find ourselves in need of a new beauty product, t-shirt or piece of home decor. So in honor of Small Business Saturday, we’ve decided to make that transition a little bit easier for you. Here are eight super cool indie brands to try instead of big name retailers.
1. Credo: This beauty mecca is packed with makeup brands that look great and are environmentally sound. Each of the 60+ artisan beauty brands Credo carries must adhere to some pretty strict standards. Credo flat-out refuses to carry brands whose ingredients aren’t ethically sourced, or that include animal byproducts, or whose packaging isn’t 100% biodegradable, recyclable or reusable.
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2. Reformation: If you’re looking to stun at that upcoming soirée, a piece from Reformation is sure to do the trick. Packed with dresses full of plunging necklines, high slits and luxe fabrics, there’s something for just about every party — be it a winter wedding or night at The Nutcracker. If the sleek styles aren’t enough to win you over, it should also be noted that Reformation an eco-friendly business. From a heat-reflecting roof to the recycled hangers in their stores to 100% recycled packaging for every order shipped, sustainability is definitely a core value for this cool-girl shop. (Photo via Reformation)
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3. Everlane: Packed with minimal and ultra sophisticated essentials, Everlane is able to offer luxury garments at affordable prices by cutting out the middle man. If you’re looking for a jacket that will carry you through the winter, a white t-shirt you can wear forever or a pair of loafers that literally match everything, this online shop is definitely worth a browse. (Photo via Everlane)
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4. Poketo: After you see the notebooks Poketo has to offer, you’re never going to want to write in a basic journal again. Packed with office supplies that feature bold colors and patterns with a minimal edge, Poketo’s aim is to bring art into everyday living. Decorate your desk with this colored pencil tree ($38) and make that 8am class a little more bearable with these charming patterned pens ($5). (Photo via @poketo)
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5. Leif: If you’re looking for a way to add color to your home while also maintaining a sophisticated vibe, Leif is pretty much your one-stop shop. This online retailer is packed with goodies that you will likely want to keep for yourself, but also things that make for great gifts for everyone from mom to your newly relocated BFF. With a decidedly minimal appeal, pretty much everything found here is a prime example of how to rock playful interiors like an adult. (Photo via @leifshop)
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6. Brit + Co: We’re admittedly tooting our own horn here, but if you got it, flaunt it, right!? Whether you’re trying to master the art of craft brewing, create a custom cheese board for your new home or whip up some bracelets on a rainy afternoon, we’ve made a bunch of DIY projects a breeze by bundling all the supplies up into one neat package.
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7. Uncommon Goods: If that Christmas list of yours is still getting a little out of hand, we’re betting you’ll be able to find something for just about everyone here. True to its name, Uncommon Goods is packed with Sky Mall-like presents, but it’s not-so-secretly a gem for all those foodie sorts of finds. Case in point: This ampersand serving board ($48) and this ultimate set of barbecue tools ($84).
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8. Sweet Lulu: If you’re in the midst of holiday party planning, it’s super important to stop what you’re doing to browse Sweet Lulu’s super impressive party supply selection. Sweet Lulu’s goodies look like they belong in the pages of a magazine. Hang up the mini tassel garland ($10), use these confetti dotted utensils ($12) and send favors home in these red-and-white striped bags ($6) to make last-minute planning look totally professional.
What’s your favorite small business you’ve discovered recently? Share your find with us in the comments below.
