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Independent brands to watch for fall gear

A list of designers who are making buying clothes fun again

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street night live
Sep 08, 2025
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I’m currently going through a wardrobe overhaul. It’s something I’ve been planning on doing ahead of the fall season—because as much as I love summer, I was tired of the t-shirt and shorts combo. I’ve been dreaming of layers and jackets.

Today’s list is all about versatility. I’m looking at brands that are focusing on performance through fabrics, classic menswear silhouettes, and some stuff in between.

As we continue our never ending journey of buying clothing, it’s good to remember that it’s more important than ever to support independent designers right now. There’s a lot of great talent out there that should be celebrated and supported. As I continue my research on what I want to add or replace in my closet, today I wanted to share what independent brands I’ve been looking at as I finalize my selection for fall.

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CAMIEL FORTGENS

This Amsterdam-based label really grabbed my attention during June’s Paris Fashion Week this year. From their casual runway shows to the clothes they create, the brand really comes off naturally human and less about the fashion industry. The clothes themselves and they way they’re styled feels like they were taken right from the streets, and that’s something I really like about the brand.

Shots from Camiel Fortgens’ SS26 presentation at Amsterdam Fashion Week

I think what draws me to the brand is how the individual items come together to create what feels like very effortless looks. Camiel is creating garments that look great on their own, but then wear them together and you get effortless cohesiveness—the styling is very good. It’s casual and easily executed. It sells the idea that these clothes can work with anything very well.

You can follow Camiel Fortgens on Instagram here.

Shop Camiel Fortgens here.


WITH A BEGINNER’S MIND

Matt Pham started With a Beginner’s Mind with a goal of telling stories that inspire dreams and add meaning to your everyday life. Matt graduated with a degree in accounting, but his goal was to try to get into the fashion industry. After reaching out to John Elliot in hopes of an internship after being laid off from his first full-time job, Matt got his opportunity. After getting the experience he needed, he turned the idea of having his own label into reality.

The brand is now on their 7th collection, which is currently on sale on their site here—by the way, the prices are already very affordable, and definitely one of the brands strongest points.

I have a few pieces myself personally and have nothing but great things to say. Nice flowy fits that have a lot of room to play with. WABM is constantly upgrading their collections, this time around with Japanese sourced fabrics that are then constructed in Los Angeles.

Excited to see how this brand continues to grow.


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