Emerging CT Brands That Belong at NYFW
Four fashion brands worthy of the front row.
New York Fashion Week is in full swing. As the city buzzes with designers, influencers and editors alike, one can't help but have a bit of FOMO. While it may seem like the Big Apple is the fashion capital of America, small states are truly the nation’s trend setters. Necessity breeds invention and the resourcefulness of the less populated areas surrounding New York is evident in the uniqueness of its emerging brands. Connecticut is home to some of the East Coast’s most innovative fashion labels. If we had it our way, their designs would be on the runway.
Continue scrolling to discover a few emerging CT-based brands that deserve to be at NYFW.
dertbag
Based in the heart of Bridgeport, dertbag marries meticulous construction with the grittiness of streetwear. Worn by tastemakers from Tyler the Creator and M.I.A. to Steve Lacy, dertbag stands for Divine Energy Radiates Through Beauty and Genius. Its inspirational moniker captures the brand’s unique approach as dertbag elevates the quintessential Y2K aesthetic with thoughtful tailoring. Founded by Phillip Post at the ripe age of 16 in his parents’ garage, dertbag is a testament to the power of creativity and determination. The innovative brand also delivers an antidote to fashion’s wastefulness as dertbag’s hand-dyed and hand-painted garments are crafted from recycled cotton and natural rip-stop fabric.
Curated by Justin White, Gravile Studios is the brand for It girls who are born to stand out. It’s clear Gravile Studios’ ascent to fashion stardom has just begun as rapper Monaleo donned a bespoke creation for Essence. While others are confused by contradictions, Gravile Studios remains fueled by them. Undeniably sensual, fluid sets and dresses often boast cleavage-baring necklines alongside thigh-skimming hemlines. Experimental patterns inspired by artwork enliven the flirtatious silhouettes, whereas intriguing textures juxtapose the unabashedly feminine designs.
XAREA’s ethereal designs were made for the runway. Founded by Xarea Lockhart, her eponymous brand has already been recognized by the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) for its 2022 collaboration with Monolo Blahnik. Through sumptuous upcycled materials, XAREA makes luxury accessible. Everyday apparel like soft knit tops and maxi dresses are uplifted by subtle yet impactful details like scalloped edges and elegant draping.
Established by Brenton Schumaker, Deadby5am furthers the rich legacy of Black artistry with its bold vision and pop culture-inspired designs. The brand’s provocative graphics aren’t just for shock appeal as they tell a deeper story of America’s reliance on and exploitation of Black talent. Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat rest on hoodies while emotive imagery of enslaved Africans and the Statue of Liberty take up space on T-shirts and sweaters. Reminiscent of brands like WhoDecidesWar, Deadby5am amplifies often ignored and silenced voices by reimagining otherwise innocuous symbols.