5 (Not So) Small Businesses By Women For Women

Not only do we take pride in celebrating female talents in all creative worlds, but it’s important to also spotlight women entrepreneurs. We believe that girls will invent the future in all forms of industry by creating jobs, influencing culture and market/economy and providing open paths to the next generations. In this month’s round-up we take pleasure in introducing these five small businesses founded by smart, passionate and hard working women.

BONA DRAG

The name itself is borrowed from an era of youth driven cultural revolution - London’s Swinging 60’s. “Bona drag” translates to “nice outfit” a common remark within the city’s gay community. It’s only fitting that this fashion e-com carries with it historical significance during a time when art, music and fashion flourished into a pop culture phenomenon. Founded in 2006 by Heather Wojner, Bona Drag showcases a well curated roster of slow fashion brands. Women who carefully think about their purchases shop at Bona Drag.

OPEN HOUSE / QUARTZ SPIRAL EARRINGS $239

PIXIE MARKET

Pixie Market was founded in 2006 by Magda Pietrobelli. Although it started out as an NYC boutique, we consider the brand as one of the pre-cursors to the rise of fashion e-commerce. Built during the U.S. economy’s turmoil and recession, Pixie Market has weathered through the rough patches and remains a viable business. What makes this online shop unique is that while they deliver new merch every week, they’re dedicated to producing quality craftsmanship in New York City.

Wide Rib Knit Midi Dress by Pixie Market $112

Ring Handle Clear Vinyl Bag by Pixie Market $59

THE STELL

If you wouldn’t put it in your body, you probably shouldn’t put it on your face. That is the main philosophy of The Stell whose made it a mission to find the best independent, natural products on the market. Founder Carol Hu has made it her obsession and profession to search and test high quality, natural ingredients that are sustainable for the environment and harmless to your skin.

Oribe Lip Lust Creme Lipstick in supernatural $42

8th Muse Creme Highligher & Blush Duo by Kosås $34

SHOP GIRL

Shop Girl is our favorite little indie e-shop, not just because of our girl crush on the founder, fashion photographer Sisilia Piring, this mother-daughter business is a labor of love. The idea of opening shop was born whilst being on the road and finding special vintage items in various places. Shop Girl even has specialty made to order items that are hand sewn and crafted by Sisilia. It’s small online boutiques like this that makes fashion more of a personal experience.

Vintage Liz Claiborne High-Rise Jean $38

BASERANGE

Founded in 2012, Baserange is a sustainable line of basics from lingerie, swimwear and apparel designed with an emphasis on simplicity and easy silhouettes. Its founders Marie-Louise Mogensen and Blandine de Verdelhan were friends who met in Paris, at the time both were working for children’s wear brands. With a strong understanding of production, they work closely with small, family owned factories to ensure that handcrafted quality never takes a backseat. A small business that began with intimates is now branching into outerwear and accessories, all the while committing to ethical practices in fabrics and production.