Celebrating Female Founded Fashion Brands: Cult Gaia, ME+EM, Khaite & Staud

What Are We Wearing?
March is here and it's time to honor the creativity and influence of female founders in the fashion industry. While there are so many to choose from, I am highlighting a few that stand out to me and why I love to wear their clothes and accessories. This International Women's Month, these trailblazing founders remind us of the power of female creativity and the lasting impact women continue to make in fashion.
Staud
Founded by Sarah Staudinger in 2015, Staud revolutionized modern femininity with an effortlessly chic, nautical, and vintage-inspired design aesthetic. The brand stands out with structured dresses and playful silhouettes, and has become a favorite among fashion lovers who appreciate bold color blocks, structured details, and a modern update to everyday dressing. Staudinger's vision empowers women to embrace fashion that feels both elevated and premium, making her brand stand out in the contemporary fashion world.
ME+EM
Luxury meets wearability with ME+EM, the British label founded by Clare Hornby. Designed for the modern woman, ME+EM blends timeless elegance with practical sophistication, offering a collection of impeccably tailored separates, dresses and accessories that transition seamlessly from work to the weekend. Clare Hornby's approach focuses on "intelligent style" by using the highest quality fabrics, tailored fits, and versatility, all values that have attracted a devoted following of women seeking polished yet effortless wardrobe staples. ME+EM stands out for its commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship, proving that style and substance can coexist., quite beautifully.
Cult Gaia
The creative genius of Jasmin Larian, fashion label Cult Gaia, has become a global sensation thanks to its artful approach to design. Best known for its statement-making handbags and dresses, Cult Gaia has expanded into multiple collections and offerings since its launch in 2012. The unmistakable, one of a kind designs evoke a radiate sculptural elegance with inspiration drawn from nature, architecture, and the concept of heirloom-worthy pieces. Larian has created a brand that feels both aspirational and attainable. Her commitment to celebrating individuality and self-expression through fashion has made Cult Gaia a go-to label for those who appreciate "wearable art."
Khaite
Established in 2016 by Catherine Holstein, Khaite has redefined the fashion industry with these key principles: modern luxury focusing on strong silhouettes, impeccable tailoring, proportions, and effortless femininity. The Khaite brand and founder are based in New York City and naturally, have captivated the style world with their blend of structure and softness, creating pieces that exude understated elegance and confidence with a luxurious finish.