Indie a Go Go
Three independent brands to remind you to shop small.
While I like a big-name buy as much as the next shopaholic, I love to support independent brands whenever possible. I grew up in a family business, so I know the impact shopping small has not only on the owners of these establishments but on their communities as well.
The three businesses in this week’s edition started small and have stayed true to their vision. Making an effort to seek out independent brands also means helping to draw attention (and money) to people who turned their dreams into reality despite their background or the limitations society has tried to impose on them. It’s a chance to invest in the groups and causes you feel passionate about.
Now that’s a reason to go shopping.
1. OSEA (Malibu, USA)
I first featured California beauty brand OSEA last May, highlighting their wonderful Sea Vitamin Boost face mist. The name stands for ocean, sun, earth and atmosphere and is pronounced “Oh-See-Uh.” Founded in 1996 by Jenefer Palmer, the brand’s seaweed-infused skincare products are rich in vitamins and minerals, vegan, cruelty-free and made without artificial dyes and fragrances or other synthetic ingredients. OSEA packages its products in beautiful glass jars and bottles and has also been Climate Neutral certified and Ocean Positive verified.
2. SMPLFD (Detroit, USA)
Motor City-born SMPLFD (pronounced “sim-pli-fied”) was launched in 2007 as a clothing company and has evolved into a fully-fledged design house that includes their eponymous streetwear brand along with custom screen printing and embroidery. SMPLFD is run out of a shop, warehouse and production facility in the Islandview neighborhood of Detroit by Justin Fishaw, Andrew Davis and Vincent Troia. Their designs highlight Detroit sports teams, landmarks and more with bold, colorful designs. On my wish list right now are the Flight Bag and the Tigers Workwear Jacket.
3. Indie Rabble Brewing Company (Windsor, UK)
This past bank holiday weekend, some friends took us to their new local in Windsor, Indie Rabble. Opened by Naomi and Dave Hayward of A Hoppy Place (another favorite drinking hole and craft beer retailer in the area) along with co-owners Alex Rowlands and Alison Steele, the space includes a dog-friendly taproom offering up craft beers from fellow Berkshire and UK breweries along with space for sipping, relaxing and enjoying some music. The winner for me was the Passionfruit Margarita Cocktail Sour, their collab with Yonder in Somerset, and I cannot wait to return when their first official batch is ready.
Something to think about …
I’m lucky to live close to the historic Camden Market, which is home to a wide selection of independent eateries and vendors. Learn more about its history here and be sure to stop in should you find yourself in London.
In case you missed it …
