Top 10 Homegrown Brands of 2020
We may be a day late, but we know that 2020 was a struggle as it was, and not an ideal year for everyone, especially among local businesses and budding creatives. Needing to adapt to a changing landscape did not prove to be smooth sailing, but one way or another, some of these up and coming independent brands and creatives have managed to push through despite the obstacles and create pieces perfect for these unpredictable times.
Here are our top 10 local, homegrown brands that made a mark this 2020, in alphabetical order.
ARAW THE LINE
With the array of collections the brand has released this past year, Araw the Line makes every day feel like summer with relaxed, comfortable staples inspired by the island life and the tropics.
Where to Shop: https://www.araw-araw.com/
ATELIER DEPARTMENT
Focusing on sustainability, Atelier Department Custom Shop combines art and recycling sleek classics and vintage pieces to create one of a kind, upcycled must-haves that stand out and are creatively unique in their own way.
Where to Inquire: https://www.instagram.com/atelier_dept/?hl=en
EPISODES
Episodes is an independent clothing brand that tells a story based on real-life experiences and personal thoughts. Their most recent release, i am home, focuses on an array of multi-purpose comfort wear and minimalist home fixtures meant to make people feel at home during these crazy times and in time for the holiday season.
Where to Shop: https://www.episodesupply.com/
HUNDO CLOTHING
HUNDO Clothing is a locally handcrafted streetwear label that aims to inspire others to give their 100% in whatever they do. Focusing on modern and minimalist pieces, Hundo's current release of tees, caps, and penny loafers with a personal touch is the perfect cherry on top to keep things laidback with no frills whatsoever.
Where to Inquire: https://www.instagram.com/hundoclothing__/
LINGKOD
Lingkod is a local furniture brand known for making quality skateboard benches. Their recent collaboration with local creative Bryan Sochayseng for their Holiday collection is a sold-out fixture layered with intricate, differently detailed designs.
Where to Inquire: https://www.instagram.com/lingkod.co/?hl=en
LISE
From way up North, Lise Laboratory is a Baguio-based brand that launched in 2019. From reworking old Carhartt pieces and turning them into customized outerwear, Lise's (Li-Seh) signature line ‘LISE’, experiments with different designs, patterns & fabrics to produce high quality & well-crafted garments.
Where to Shop: https://www.liselab.com/
MERAKI
Initially created as a women's clothing line, Meraki has expanded and has provided quality-made workwear for both men & women. Their latest collection of earthy and classic work suits combined with vibrant purples and greens are good for that laidback, back to basics look or eye-catching outfit.
Where to Shop: https://merakiapparel.co/
Sleek/Shy
This not so shy vibrant clothing label is all about their "Shychedelic" illustrations and hand-painted prints. Their versatile yet eccentric comfort wear collection, Sleep Dreams, released this year, was all about making one feel at home and was inspired by late-night musings and feelings amid the pandemic depicted through the eyes of their resident cat, Eye-ming.
Where to Inquire: https://www.instagram.com/sleekshycatalog/
Webstore: https://sleekshy.club/ (Opens on January 4, 2020)
TSA
The Starving Artist is a homegrown brand that expresses ideas from the heart and mind and encourages other artists to pursue their craft, no matter the circumstances, and through the good and bad. Their year-end collection is the cumulation of their reflection and exploration on what more they can offer as a brand.
Where to Inquire: https://www.instagram.com/byfortsa/
UNFINISHED
During these crazy times, UNFSD, or Unfinished, wants to reassure us that the creative process is never over as art is the world's greatest UNFINISHED masterpiece. Showcased through their array of items, ranging from quality apparel, creative activity sketchpads, and handcrafted woodwork, UNFSD is all about inspiring others to pursue and persevere in the creative process and imagination no matter where they are in life.
Where to Shop: https://www.unfsd.com/
With that said, let's do our part to support our homegrown, independent businesses and creatives. Love local, shop local.