In a world where fast fashion is filling our algorithms (and landfills), it’s now more important than ever to explore independent menswear brands that are specifically made to last.
If you’re not sure where to begin your search, and if your TikTok algo is continuing to fail you, don’t worry: we’ve hand-selected a bunch of independently-owned brands that we’re very much into, and are all well worth checking out. From LA-based husband-and-wife teams, to streetwear labels based out of Manchester, please, do make some room in your wardrobe for the little guy.
The French love Fursac. But it’s still an indie brand that hasn’t quite popped across the Channel yet. Founded in 1973, the Parisian label is synonymous with low-key cool. From day-to-day staples such as jackets and knitwear, to full-on tuxedos that are red carpet-worthy, each and every piece is individually quality checked, so you can guarantee that you’re getting the best that La Ville Lumière has to offer.
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If you want to add some good vibes to your everyday fits, look to the Museum of Peace & Quiet. Founded in Los Angeles by husband-and-wife team Ashley and Christion Lennon, MoPQ is committed to helping wearers “focus on what matters by designing simplistic objects and apparel for everyday use.” If you want extra cosy hoodies and sweatpants from independent menswear brands, then this is for you.
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Based in Manchester, George and Michael Heaton’s Represent has taken the streetwear world by storm since its 2011 inception. Especially over the past year or two: hype surrounding that brand has skyrocketed, with each seasonal drop selling out within minutes. World-renowned for its 247 and Blanks ranges, their most popular collection has got to be the Owners’ Club.
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Olderbrother’s elevator pitch reads: “a playful, eco-sustainable, naturally dyed, gender-neutral contemporary collection from Portland, USA for the slow fashion revolution.” Sounds pretty good, no? If you’re searching for a delectable collection of chore coats, puffer jackets, and neat-looking trousers, all dyed in a series of soft colours, this is an indie imprint that ticks all the boxes.
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While Mki Miyuki Zoku’s collections might look simple from the outset, when you take a closer look, you’ll quickly realise that every single graphic and stitch has been meticulously planned. It's a thinky menswear brand. And, based out of Leeds, the independent streetwear company is a love letter to ‘60s Japanese street fashion, with pieces like its knit cardigans and varsity jackets proving themselves as low key cult hits.
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Launched in 2019 by two friends, Oliver Dannefalk and Carl Pers, Rubato is another brand that was born from the simple idea to perfect one single product. Starting off with the humble V-neck sweater, the Scandi label has now expanded its range to include everything from lambswool cardigans to suede belts. But, at the end of the day, we’re still madly in love with their V-neck sweats (which now come in cashmere too!)
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The brainchild of Nigerian-American designer Niyi Okuboyejo, Post-Imperial presents vibrant, easy-to-wear pieces that are designed in New York City and made by artisans in Africa. Inspired by the idea of clothes that “set a new standard of design without over-romanticising the past,” you can expect pieces, such as shirts, cargo pants, and bags to feel sharp and directional, while showcasing traditional materials and prints.
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The classic “Made in…” label doesn’t mean all that much anymore. With the complexity of modern supply chains, materials are sourced from all over the world, meaning that it’s almost impossible to define the origin of a specific piece. Asket, however, knows almost every single detail about its products. From raw materials to cut and sew factories, the Swedish indie label can tell you the true environmental footprint of each of its collections.
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Even though Lestrange is a relatively new brand, it has managed to make quite an impact on the world of sustainable fashion. With the ethos “With Less, Do More,” the London label aims to reduce the amount of clothes that you need by bringing versatility to everyday items. They even have their own all-natural laundry tablets, which will bring your clothes back to life without any nasty, artificial chemicals.
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P&Co: the indie label inspired by tattoo and motorcycle culture. Known for their vast range of graphics tees and canvas overshirts, the Birmingham streetwear brand is also famed for their leather goods and baseball caps, which have been drip-fed onto Insta feeds over the past couple of years.
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