It’s June and despite the lazy summer sun beginning to filter through the air, it seems like our schedules are only picking up speed. As we race through ribbons of concrete, feet pressing the pedal forward, the very idea of looking for something new to wear often sounds more exhaustive than exhilarating.
With our hectic pace of life, it can be easy to wish for an escape; our fashion choices can give us that. We dream of scattered skylines around the world, and search for ways to incorporate a far-off touch into our wardrobe.
Yet, in glancing away from the cities we dream about to look at what surrounds us, I’ve found that we’re often greeted with nothing but collaged chaos. A bit ironically, here in the States, our “convenient” sea of fast fashion retailers and skyscraper department stores can feel overwhelming at times, doing little to spark creativity or mindful (over mindless) purchases.
Conversely, in the face of lighting-paced information and stimulation, Europe has seemed to take a breath with its designs. And while it takes some extra effort, shopping European brands can offer a vital sense of architectural clarity and minimalism to help focus our over-saturated vision.
That being said, I hope these five European stores — specializing in detailed craftsmanship and sleek, modern silhouettes — will help breathe some beauty and solace into your day.
1. Toast
Four words: “Simplicity. Modernity. Comfort. Colour.” This UK retailer established in West Wales centers every collection on creating designs that are classic, yet fresh, offering beautiful basics made with quality materials. (US Shipping: $11)
2. Part Two
The Danish brand offers timeless pieces that are crafted with keen attention to great design, comfortable fit, and a “sense of natural femininity.” Their workwear is simply wonderful. (US Shipping: $10)
3. COS
The H&M-owned brand is sleek. With price tags under $100, the European brand offers you gorgeous, minimalist pieces which bring a breath of clarity to even the most chaotic of closets. They also expanded westward in 2014, launching store locations in LA and NYC. (US Shipping: $6)
Stores:
Los Angeles, 357 North Beverly Drive
New York City, 129 Spring Street
4. Won Hundred
Danish designer Nikolaj Nielson has utilized his background in “denim, clean lines, classic cuts and subtle detailing” to gift the world with a modern wardrobe which won’t be fading with the fads. (US Shipping: $20)
5. Pollini
The quirky Italian accessory designer offers you traditionally handcrafted shoes, leather accessories, and sunglasses, all crafted with the utmost attention to detail. (US Shipping: $17)
Honorable mention: Though Zady isn’t a European retailer, they offer similarly styled pieces while also employing ethical standards to offset the fast fashion movement. Based in LA, they are definitely worth a look!
Image via Richard Douglas
3 comments
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I have to add Oasis to this great list! I’ve only just discovered them, and they are doing fabulous work (for example, a beautiful floral line based on historic prints from the Victora and Albert Museum) for a reasonable price! XO
I had forgotten all about Toast! I was obsessed with their print catalogs/lookbooks 10 years ago. Excited to check out what they’ve been up to!