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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UFL chapter.

If you’re shopping for a new wardrobe, look no further. 

If you’re anything like me, then you’re tired of seeing the same trends and styles cycle through fast-fashion corporations. I love finding unique pieces from small brands to ramp up my wardrobe and style. Here are some brands that you can start shopping from to find something new that not everybody will be wearing this year. 

1. Dyspnea

Dyspnea is a brand that focuses on custom, handmade and sustainable clothing. These sequin-covered pieces have been featured all over social media and you have probably seen them on your feed at some point. The brand was founded by Rachel Motteram and Jameen Zalfen in 2015. The pair started by designing “one-off party pieces,” and then as more and more people wanted their custom clothing pieces, the brand was born. I would describe the clothing in one word: ethereal. Every piece is a flowy, sparkly dream come true. If you’re able to snag something from this company, you’re guaranteed to feel as delicate and graceful as the clothing looks. 

2. Rezek Studio

Rezek Studio is rolling out ‘70s styles with its silky, feathery pieces that will make you wish disco never went out of style. The brand is known for its matching corsets and pants, which are made from a silky, metallic material. Feathers also make an appearance on the hem of the pants for the ultimate ‘70s nostalgia. The brand was started by Ariel Rezek, owner and designer, in 2018. Rezek had a passion for fashion and started working in the fashion industry at 14. After going to school for fashion, she knew she wanted to create her own brand, and thus Rezek Studio was born. 

3. Wolf Circus

If you’re looking to master the clean girl aesthetic, look no further. Wolf Circus is a Vancouver-based jewelry line that makes the perfect jewelry for anyone looking for a refined, classy look. The jewelry pieces are timeless and can be dressed up or down for any event. The minimalistic jewelry has already been viral all-over social media. The jewelry stands out but is not too overpowering or distracting from the clothing, which was the creator’s goal. Founded in 2016, the brand takes sustainability very seriously, noting that all pieces of jewelry are handmade, use recycled metals, freshwater pearls and lab-created gemstones.

4. Lisa Says Gah

Lisa Says Gah is the brand for you when it comes to trendy, over-the-top clothing. This brand has exceptionally good statement pieces for anyone that is looking for something to set them apart from everyone else. Lisa Bühler set out to make a shop where people could buy from small, sustainable brands. She knows that the overall vibe of her store is eclectic, and that’s exactly how she wants it to be. This shop is for someone who is looking to get out of their comfort zone and try new fashion pieces that they might have otherwise not tried if not for the influence of Lisa Says Gah. 

5. Susan Alexandra

These bags just make you stop in your tracks and stare, like you cannot look away. I wasn’t sure if I liked these bags at first, but after being harassed by Susan Alexandra bags on Instagram, they’ve for sure grown on me. These beaded, vivid bags will have you living out your childhood arts and crafts dreams. They are the perfect accessory if you are looking to catch anyone’s eye and make them ask you a few questions about your bag. Susan Alexandra started making jewelry in 2014 and then transitioned into bags, which eventually turned into a big hit on social media. There are so many benefits to supporting small fashion brands. One of the most notable benefits is that a lot of them are sustainable and handmade, so you know you are getting a quality product that is not as harmful to the environment as fast fashion. This list is a helpful guide into the world of small fashion brands, but there are so many more places to buy from. I recommend you start with these companies, and then branch out to find something suited to your individual style!

Alyssa is a second-year journalism major at the University of Florida. Her dream career would be to incorporate her love of environmental science with her love of writing. In her free time, Alyssa enjoys cooking, working out, and watching Community. When she isn't in class, you can usually find her at a coffee shop or thrift store.