Summer Fashion Lookbook : Discover Brands with Purpose and Style

As summer begins, it's time to update our wardrobes and dress for the season. In this fashion lookbook, I've curated a selection of standout pieces from brands that I admire. However, it's not just about the clothes; it's also about the stories behind the brands that allow us to make informed choices when we spend our money. By being intentional about where we buy from, we can support brands that align with our values and beliefs, whether through sustainable practices, ethical sourcing, or other means. Therefore, this list not only showcases stunning designs but also the rich backgrounds that bring depth and meaning into the pieces you'll be donning this season.

TUNDXM

TUNDXM, founded by Tunds Toyo, is a brand platform blending creativity in clothing, accessories, and bags. Inspired by the sensory-altering effects of Dextromethorphan (DXM), TUNDXM's designs embody boundless creativity and thematic depth. The brand's name symbolizes a journey through altered realities, reflected in products. With a background in graphic design and artistry, Tunds Toyo's transition to TUNDXM marks a shift towards personal expression and creative freedom, establishing a reputation for innovative designs and projects.

The Sakura Flowers and Destiny Leather tote bags are pieces that have captured my admiration with their unique blend of originality and practicality. The unique and vibrant artwork showcasing the DXM motif is nothing short of breathtaking, creating a mesmerizing visual appeal that is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Additionally, the generous interior space of these bags not only adds to their charm but also ensures that they are immensely practical for all your daily needs. This perfect fusion of form and function makes these totes an essential addition to the collection of any discerning fashion and art lover.

THEEHOSHEN

“Your worth is more than diamonds and rubies but you can still adorn yourself in them '' Born from a lockdown inspiration and a deep connection with her elegant grandmother, the brand epitomises a fusion of timeless beauty and personal style. Founder Aisha offers a curated collection of pre-loved and vintage jewellery, from rings to necklaces, each piece telling a captivating story waiting to be revived and retold. With her passion for history and a love for exquisite treasures, the brand breathes new life into these enchanting pieces, inviting others to embrace their unique charm and add a touch of legacy to their collections.

TheeHoshen offers a plethora of well-picked unique vintage pieces that elegantly showcase the craftmanship and style of previous eras. This is perfect for any fashion enthusiast wanting to add character and history to their wardrobe. Choosing pre-loved jewellery adds a touch of uniqueness and sustainability to your accessories. Opting for vintage pieces allows you to express your personal style while supporting ethical practices in the jewellery industry.

EZIMMA

Ezímma is a London-based clothing brand that consciously creates collections blending streetwear with high-quality materials and well-fitting structures. Founded by Ijeoma, the brand draws inspiration from her diverse background as a Nigerian raised in Italy and currently residing in London. Ezímma celebrates cultural diversity, encouraging individuals to embrace alternative perspectives in a world that often seeks to confine us. Ijeoma's undergraduate studies in geology at UCL also influenced her designs, as she finds inspiration in nature. Ezímma offers limited editions of men's and women's ready-to-wear collections exclusively available on the website.

The Ezimma Camo Bubble Skirt

This bubble hem skirt has been quite popular this season, but Ezimma offers a unique twist with a camouflage colourway. What I particularly love about this piece is its versatility in styling options, and the earthy tones are perfect for the summertime. Whether you pair it with a casual tee for a relaxed day out or dress it up with a corset for a night out the Ezimma camo skirt is sure to make a statement wherever you go.

MILLIEJANE

Millie Jane is a sustainable women's fashion label that prioritizes ethical practices and slow fashion principles. Founded by Millie in 2016 while she was studying Fashion Design at the University of Leeds, the brand reflects her commitment to creating timeless pieces sustainably and ethically. Following her graduation in 2020, Millie dedicated herself full-time to developing her brand. All designs are personally crafted by Millie in her Hackney-based studio in East London. While she initially handled all garment production herself, the brand has recently transitioned to collaborating with a team of skilled seamstresses located across England. To delve deeper into our ethical standards and sustainability initiatives, visit our website for more information.

The Tulip Dress is a must for summer and its flirty design makes it the perfect choice for warm summer days. Featuring a tulip print in hues of pink and red, this floral mini-dress exudes a playful and feminine vibe. Made from soft and breathable jersey fabric, the Tulip Dress offers a comfortable and flattering fit, making it the perfect choice for all-day wear during the summer months.

MYAE

Hailing from Bristol originally, Mia Joseph stands as the creative mind behind the renowned Myae brand, where she personally handcrafts and designs each unique piece. Mia's artistic vision is showcased through her diverse collection of avant-garde tops, dresses, and coordinated sets featuring deconstructed details, patchwork designs, layered elements, and captivating prints. Mia's garments often include a mix of mesh, knit fabrics, and innovative fabric combinations, all enhanced with vibrant hues and intricate textures. Reflecting on her academic journey, Mia's appreciation for graphics, clean lines, and vibrant colours emerged during her degree, shaping the bold and distinctive aesthetic that defines her creations at Myae.

The Myae Minis collection offers a diverse selection of prints, featuring ruffle mini skirts paired with either a stylish cowl neck or a zip-up hoodie. The look is completed with coordinating shorts to layer underneath. The breathable fabrics of the Myae Minis collection make it an excellent choice for staying cool and comfortable but still stylish during summer. The mix-and-match options are perfect for creating effortless and stylish summer outfits. My favourite is the pink crochet variation, as the cowl detail elevates the overall look. This feminine streetwear style can be effortlessly paired with a variety of footwear options, including flats, boots, heels, or trainers, for a versatile and chic ensemble.

BYKWEZI

Introducing KWEZI, a fashion brand that goes beyond clothing to embody a powerful form of self-expression. With a passion for infusing meaning into fashion choices, Justine crafts each piece in the KWEZI collection to tell a unique story and empower wearers to shine their inner light. Drawing inspiration from the belief that fashion is an art form that speaks volumes about one's personality, KWEZI pieces are designed to make a statement effortlessly. Embrace your individuality, exude confidence, and radiate impact with KWEZI - a brand that celebrates the light within each of us, inspired by the concept of light in the darkness or moonlight in Luganda.

The Clara Set is elegant and chic consisting of a maxi skirt and cowl halterneck top, perfect for making a statement at any special occasion or event. The set exudes luxury and the fabric drapes beautifully creating a sophisticated silhouette. The designer Justine Kwezi wears the set on holiday in the South of France which is the perfect backdrop for this piece.