Best Female-Founded Clothing Companies
03.05.2022Who is the global leader? Of course, it’s girls. Women’s History Month is a great time to recognize female business owners and women-owned fashion brands. It’s a time to recognize the hard work of women and honor those who came before us. It also gives us the opportunity to inspire those who are willing to make a difference. Women have always had a significant impact on fashion, as in every other industry. Today’s female designers have big shoes to fill, from Coco Chanel to VivienneWestwood. They are not only rising to the challenge, but also succeeding in major ways. It is amazing to see.
Are you ready to find out more? For a deeper dive into the history and impact of this important movement, read on. We are excited to highlight, cheer and share a selection of women-owned clothing companies. This is just a small selection of the amazing women in fashion. We encourage you to continue your research. Women designers and business owners are setting new standards in terms of fit, quality, and social responsibility. Let’s go, ladies.
Before we get into the details about women-owned clothing companies, you might wonder what Women’s History Month is. What about International Women’s Day, you might ask? It is possible to wonder how these two events compare and differ. Although they are closely related, they serve different purposes and highlight different agendas. Let’s go back in time and learn how these dates and commemorative events came about.
In 1978, what started out as a one-day celebration became a month-long celebration. The U.S. presidents, Congress and the Senate officially declared March Women’s History Month. We now come together to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in history and today. Women’s History Month features educational events as well as stimulating programs for the community, from classrooms to state departments.
International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th as part of Women’s History Month. This holiday dates back to 1909, when it was created by the labor movements in North America as well as Europe. This dedicated day has been a central point in the women’s rights movement since then. Each International Women’s Day has a unique theme that unites women around the world. It began in 1996. Organisers often focus on social issues facing women, and organize marches, campaigns, and gatherings to highlight them. Gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence against women are just a few of the examples. It is also an opportunity to celebrate all that women have done and the progress they have made. Let’s celebrate women-owned clothing companies making progress today.
Did you know that many of today’s fashion brands are founded by female entrepreneurs? This makes perfect sense. We support women in all aspects of business, in and outside of fashion. Fashion brands owned by women are more than just a current trend. Since Rose Bertin, the dressmaker for Queen Marie Antoinette, female-founded apparel has been a majorstay of the industry. Rose is often credited with bringing haute couture to the forefront of popular culture. Coco Chanel, who dare to design casual and sporty clothing for women, was the one to transform the industry. This chic-style aesthetic continues today to elevate wardrobes.
Today, female fashion designers are still the dominant force in creating all things feminine. They don’t stop at designing clothes. Women-owned clothing companies using their platforms for good is a growing trend. Many of these brands share inspiring stories and promote different causes, such as diversity and size inclusion. We’re proud to share some of our favorite brands and their positive impact.
Brands of Activewear
Half the battle for achieving your fitness goals is feeling confident in your workout gear. A great outfit can make a big difference in your workout. It has been proved. Fit and fashion are the two main themes in recent changes to women’s activewear. Sunny sportswear is a top fashion trend for spring 2022, so it’s not surprising. It used to be characterized by dark colors, sloppy fittings and a lack of style. But the activewear market for women is hotter than ever because of women. We are highlighting three women-owned clothing companies because of their focus on sustainability and function.
Beyond Yoga: Luxe Activewear For the Socially Aware
Beyond Yoga is a leader in the world of luxury activewear and women’s-owned clothing brands. Beyond Yoga is a household name thanks to their soft spacedye fabric. They offer everything from loungewear and sports bras to leggings. Beyond Yoga was founded by Jodi Guber Brrufsky and Michelle Wahler. Their goal is to provide luxury-level comfort for every body shape and size through activewear. They have it down pat.
Beyond Yoga is also an environmental champion, striving to make the least possible impact on the environment. Beyond Yoga’s fashion-forward pieces come in sizes XXS-4X. They are made to be lived in, sweat in, and believe in. It is easy to slip on a matching set for yoga class. The best thing? Michelle and Jody still manage the LA-manufactured business with over 85% of their female employees. This dynamic duo is a real team!
Girlfriend Collective, an activewear label for women, is a pioneer in sustainable clothing brands as well as women-owned clothing brands. Ellie Dinh, who is the founder of the company, has teamed up with her husband to make ethically-made leggings. Why? There wasn’t any on the market. Ellie created a line in 2016 that makes you look great and makes you feel good. You may be wondering why? Their strong emphasis on recycling materials is the reason. Girlfriend Collective is committed to eco-friendly manufacturing.
The brand takes social responsibility into account in everything they do, from packaging materials to performance fabrics. The brand uses post-consumer water bottles for their clothing to help Mother Nature. You read that right. Their leggings are made from thread spun from 25 bottles, and their sports bras are made from 11. This is slow fashion worth the wait.
Sweaty Betty is an International Women-Owned Clothing Brand
Let’s continue the theme of International Women’s Day by taking a trip across the Atlantic to spotlight Sweaty Betty. The women-owned clothing brand started as a small boutique in London and quickly grew into a global brand. There are currently over 150 stores and retailers in the U.S., U.K. and Canada.
Sweaty Betty was founded by Tamara Hill Norton in 1998. Since then, they have focused on combining style and performance to revolutionize women’s activewear. What is Tamara Hill-Norton’s driving force behind the brand? Clothing that makes active women feel confident and beautiful. She’s accomplished just that. The Power Leggings are a top-selling product. They have a 4-way stretch and contouring fabric. These leggings are sold 60 seconds apart. This is a lot of selling power. Sweaty Betty puts it best with the tagline, “Empowering Women through Fitness and Beyond.”
Ready to Wear
We believe that activewear is similar to women who look great. It all comes down to the outfit. Your mood and confidence can be affected by what you wear, whether it’s in the boardroom or on the field. Why not look the part? There are many options. Let’s take a look at some of the most stylish women-owned clothing brands. Literally.
Good American: Women-Owned Clothing Brand Made for Everyone
You’ve probably been following Good American, the brand that was founded in part by Khloe Kardashian. Did you know her co-founder and business partner, also a woman? This women-owned clothing brand is bringing you double the female empowerment. Good American is a body-positive company that promotes consumer confidence. Emma Grede is its CEO. The brand started out as a size-inclusive jeans brand. It has since evolved to include swim, active, and separates. They are not content to settle and continue to make history. Good American celebrates curves and diversity and is committed to helping women feel and look their best. We think it sounds pretty great.
Modern Citizen: A sophisticated brand of women-owned clothing
Modern Citizen, a women-owned clothing company, is for you if simplicity and clean lines are your style. Modern Citizen was founded by Jess Lee, Lizzie Agnew and is designed to make women feel timeless and modern. Their clothing is designed to be easy, creative and powerful. They have a normcore style that is easy to wear and creative.
The brand is also proud to be accessible and size-inclusive. They use their public platform to promote diversity and inclusion when it comes to social issues. They also support local communities and strive to make the world a better place by supporting women. Are you ready for some Modern Citizen fun facts? Jess and Lizzie first met at brunch in 2014. That’s right. This is your sign to continue your Sunday brunch tradition. You never know who or what you might meet.
Pistola: Premium denim at Attainable Price
Pistola, a brand known for its premium denim and perfect fits is another favorite among women-owned clothing brands. Grace Na, a female founder and mother of three, had the vision to make denim more exciting. Grace Na was right. This brand is quickly becoming a major player in the fashion industry, thanks to its precise fittings and sharp finishes. Grace is not new to fashion in general. Grace has over 15 years experience and it is easy to believe she knows what she’s doing. Grace and her company are also concerned about cost. Pistola is committed to keeping prices affordable, so top-quality pieces are available at reasonable prices. There are jeans from Pistola for every occasion, whether you’re running errands or out on a night. This is denim with a purpose.
Chloe Kristyn – Beauty with a Purpose
Chloe Kristyn is last, but not least, in ready-to-wear. Bettina Benson founded this elegant, yet simple women’s clothing brand. It also has a female pattern maker in house. Chloe Kristyn is a modern women’s clothing brand that celebrates women with thoughtful design, skilled tailoring, and subtle finishes. This brand makes beautiful, versatile and affordable garments. This brand offers a wide range of clothes, from casual wear to formal dinners, to comfortable loungewear at home. Bettina is a strong advocate for the U.S. clothing industry. Her clothing is designed and manufactured in Atlanta, but Bettina’s clothes are made in New York.
Behind the scenes Chloe Kristyn gives back to the community through her partnership with the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation. The Safe Families Office was created in 2009 by AVLF and Partnership Against Domestic Violence. This resource assists victims of domestic violence in the Atlanta region and their families. Chloe Kristyn proudly gives a portion of the profits to the foundation in order to break the cycle of abuse. The founder stated that “we believe it is our duty [to advocate for women] in every way that we can.” This is a true example of women empowerment.