Brands + People That Are Doing it Right V.2
this is a series now.
This is a series now. So I present to you, volume 2.
I just think it’s so important to recognize the people that stand out. The ones who are navigating their own creative world in a unique and unapologetic way. Those people deserve to be recognized. Those brands deserve to be recognized.
That’s exactly what I’m striving to do. To praise and acknowledge those brands + people who stick out to me. Whether it’s their marketing, community building, art-direction, vibe, personal style, or simply their products.
Still working on a name for this series… something concise and to the point. I’ll get back to you with ideas. This will also be a monthly newsletter… that seems appropriate.
All that matters is that this is the most excited I've been about writing/creating in a while. It sets my brain on fire, and makes me more inspired than ever. I just love to see brands and people doing cool f***ing shit.
THE BRANDS:
A brand that I feel has been paving the way for sometime now… with absolutely no signs of slowing down. Their attention to detail not only with product, but also their creative vision. District Vision has a minimalist approach to their Art direction, which I really appreciate. Less truly is more in this instance. They highlight their products in such a stylistic way… it is truly mesmerizing.
A few of my favourite DV pieces include: Running tank + Junya Racer.
A newer player in the industry, but one of the most innovative, imaginative brands I’ve come across. Their recent collaboration with KEEN really caught my eye. I love seeing newer brands collab with industry classics to put their own twist on tried-and-true hero products. To me, Hikerkind is home to one of the coolest packable puffer’s in the market. Their commitment to prioritizing community is inspiring, and I can’t see what they do next.
It should be clear by now that I’m very drawn to brands that utilize print and prioritize film photos… Comme Si is no exception. The dreamiest loungewear, socks, and everyday essentials. Their marketing portrays a lifestyle of luxe, chic, effortless dressing that makes you convinced you need their products *victim → me* . They’ve mastered the art of layering, and their content colour story is seriously beyond.
Some of my favourite Comme Si pieces include: the Ski sock, the Yves sock, and La Shirt Classica.
A staple in my household, and for a good reason… but their marketing is the cherry on top. Crown Affair products have been an essential in my routine since December of 2022, and since I have not touched another shampoo or conditioner. While their products do speak for themselves in terms of quality and results, their marketing team is putting in the work to make sure every launch/post/story is sleek and engaging. Their Art Direction style is vintage inspired *which is SO different for beauty/haircare companies… I applaud*, and leans on sharing real experience’s in an innovative way.
My Crown Affair favourites are: shampoo + conditioner bundle, the oil *I can’t find this on the website- please don’t be discontinued*, the towel, and the finishing spray. Honorary mention to all of the hair brushes, and the finishing gel… and everything else on the website…
Sleek, timeless, minimal- these are the 3 pillars of KYE intimates to me. While I have never personally tried their products *I have this tank coming in the mail though*, I have always been a fan of their content approach. It’s very moody and product facing, which as a consumer is calming. Nothing is overly “marketed” and in your face… it’s clean, cohesive, and beautiful nonetheless.
I’ll report back with my verdict on the tank… but their imagery certainly caught my eye.
A Swedish powerhouse in the outdoor-fashion space. KA YO carries their own in-house collection, alongside the coolest… and I mean the coolest outdoor brands. Their catalogue is perhaps the most pleasing website I’ve ever browsed. I think I could gush for hours about how much inspiration I gather from KA YO. They fly slightly under the radar… which I actually find super cool, and continuously capture some of the most insane editorial outdoor imagery I’ve ever seen.
Some of my favourite brands KA YO carries amongst their in-house brand are: Felicia Faller, ROA, RAB, Klattermusen, and Satisfy.
THE PEOPLE:
I had the dear pleasure of working and spending some time with Sophie, who I’m grateful to consider a friend, this past month in Whistler. To know Sophie, is to be in awe of her creative eye. Sophie shoots primarily on film, which allows her to capture such a vivid storyline with every project she produces. A total visionary, and one of the most talented people I have ever met.
I first came across Kellyn on TikTok ~3 years ago. Since then, I’ve never scrolled past a story, post, or outfit that she’s shared. Kellyn is the full embodiment of cool, effortless mountain town dressing… and has such a unique sense of style that really sets her apart from the rest of the crowd. Her outdoor content speaks to me in ways I cannot describe… she is one of my favourite all-time favourite follows.
My dear friend Frederique *Fred for short*, who is the ultimate f***ing it-girl in my mind. The queen of knowing what’s cool 12 months before everyone else, her eye for design is unmatched, and she brings magic to every single piece of work she touches. If I had to switch closets with any of my friends… it would be Fred. Producer extraordinaire, and a true creative.
Known for her vast-network, and for being the host of Lemon Water, Michelle recently became the head of Brand Marketing at SIDIA *another brand that gets it*. Michelle never compromises aesthetics, and prioritizes wellbeing SO well that it makes it seem easy *it’s not… at all*. Michelle’s personal content oozes warmth, and comfort, which feels like a hug through your phone. Michelle is one of the coolest, and knows how to curate a vibe for brands like no other.
That’s this month’s list. Be back soon with another. x
-CM