Do you opt for boyfriend jeans and boots or silk skirts and stilettos? An organic cotton jersey T or a cashmere turtleneck?
As we all know, the clothes you choose each morning act to express your personality to the world or at least give some pretty good clues as to what mood you’re in: extravagant or frugal, chipper or melancholy, carefree or buttoned-up.
In this day and age, those of us who love to use our limbs like an artist’s palate are lucky to live in a world chock full of designer brands. One person’s top ten might not be another’s, but here’s a handful of high fashion stars that have gathered a solid fan base and become favorites to fashion-savvy women around the globe.
1. Christian Siriano
After studying under long-established designers Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen, Christian Siriano took first prize in the fourth season of Project Runway. Best of all, his commitment to diversity and equality in the fashion industry has led him to design an ongoing line for Payless ShoeSource and he stepped up for non-sample-sized Leslie Jones after the actress tweeted that she couldn’t find a dress for a red carpet premiere.
2. Zimmermann’s
Perusing Zimmerman’s collections is like wandering through a celebrity’s closet. Embroidery, lace, crystals and metallic lame are just some of the fabrics used in their famous range of gorgeous dresses meant for occasions from cocktail parties to sunny picnics. Launched in 1990, the iconic Australian label is beloved by superstars including princess Kate Middleton and actress Naomi Watts.
3. Leona Edmiston
Beloved by women who wear a size 0 to those often frustrated by the available fashion choices for curvier shapes, designer Leono Edmiston focuses on dresses. But these aren’t any dresses: from classic black to eye-popping patterns and inventive cuts, her frocks come in sizes that flatter a range of bodies and can take a woman from tea party to cocktail, opera to office.
4. Fendi
Founded in 1925, the Italian fashion house Fendi began by producing fur and leather goods. Their commitment to glamour has since expanded into luxurious ready-to-wear garments for both men and women, including lots of drool-worthy labelled bags.
5. Eileen Fisher
Made of un-dyed cashmere, silk, organic cotton and linen and other natural fibers, Eileen Fisher’s classic ready-to-wear garments feel good. They’re also good for us – and the earth. Her company focuses on products that support human rights and sustainability with sizing from petites to plus.
6. Chanel
One of the grande dames in the fashion world, Chanel is famous for their classic dresses and fragrances. A global brand based in France, Chanel defines sophistication and class.
7. Stella McCartney
A spokesperson for PETA and committed vegetarian, Stella McCartney abstains from using animal products like fur or leather in her designs. On the cutting edge of sustainable fashion, her ready-to-wear garments use recycled cashmere and faux fur and range from lingerie to velvet vests.
8. Scarlett & Jo
The UK’s Scarlett & Jo has made their name with a range of dresses designed by founder Gifi Fields. Focused on style, comfort and cut, the popular designs range from clingy body-con frocks to classic, patterned 1940’s tea dresses – all with a diversity of fuller figured women in mind.
9. Gucci
Defining luxury for all ages, Gucci is a global fashion powerhouse. Founded in 1921, the Italian company began by crafting fine leather goods including luggage. Since then, they have earned a place as a leader in haute couture.
10. H&M
Originating in Sweden in the 1940s, H&M has since spread around the world. They’ve become a go-to brand for their wide range of ready to wear offerings from the latest trends to everyday classics for women, men, teenagers and kids with a range of body types.