Marcus Richards
In a fashion-conscious world that never sleeps, New York has long been recognised as a global trendsetter. Home to some of the most influential fashion houses, it is no surprise that it also hosts a vibrant startup ecosystem. Disrupting the conventional norms of fashion industry, a number of recent startups stand out for their novelty, creativity and commitment to sustainability. These startups, all founded in 2020 or later, have already made significant strides in changing the way we think and interact with fashion.
Many of these startups are disrupting traditional methods of fashion manufacturing and promoting sustainability. From utilising cutting edge technology to introduce new trends to developing AI platforms to source materials, these startups are leading the wave of new generation fashion. Some are also reimagining bespoke fashion through machine learning and creating community platforms in the fashion space.
On the retail front, a number of startups are making shopping affordable and enjoyable through apps and eCommerce platforms. Importantly, some also target niche markets and are offering a platform for underrepresented communities. Let’s take a closer look at some of the newest fashion startups that are shaping the future of fashion in NYC.
Simplifyber
Founded by Maria Intscher and Philip Cohen, Simplifyber focuses on advanced material and fashion manufacturing. They aim to transform the traditional factory system into sustainable, additive manufacturing. Assembling clothes with chemistry rather than with sewing machines, they significantly reduce waste, carbon emissions, and water pollution. Learn more about Simplifyber on their LinkedIn.
Fashinza
Fashinza, founded by Abhishek Sharma, Jamil Ahmad and Pawan Gupta, is a marketplace that solves trend forecasting and sourcing for fashion brands. Predicting trends with its AI platform and aiding sourcing through its Cloud-connected network, Fashinza makes the fashion experience smooth and efficient. Find more about Fashinza on their LinkedIn and Facebook.
iambic
Focused on innovation in footwear, iambic was founded by Chaudhry Raza Hassan, and Maeve Wang. They combine AI technology and craftsman expertise to create quality shoes that fit unique movements and lifestyle. Learn more about iambic on their LinkedIn.
Halara
Founded by Joyce Zhang, Halara is an online d2c athleisure business that provides affordable high-quality activewear. The startup’s LinkedIn page offers more details.
PLAY OUT APPAREL
Play Out Apparel, headed up by founder Abby Sugar, is a lifestyle brand that designs for Gen Z shoppers who appreciate gender expression. Their efforts extend to circular and digital fashion and NFTs in the metaverse. More details can be found on their LinkedIn and Facebook pages.
The Reflective
The Reflective is a retail apparel company that empowers women. It was founded in 2020 and is based in New York. Find more about The Reflective on their LinkedIn.
DOWNKORE
Founded by James Chaplin, DOWNKORE is a community platform that lists world-renowned dancers. Their interactive directory allows users to discover dancers, crews, and studios. You can connect with them on Facebook and LinkedIn.
UjuuMedia
Founded by Kelechi Uju, UjuuMedia is an eCommerce platform and brand holding company. The platform is home to a diverse collection of curated designers and brands, and serves a global community of black and brown women across the African diaspora. Connect with them on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Larroude
Larroude is a startup founded by Marina Larroudé and is primarily involved in the e-commerce, fashion, and retail industry. You can find more about them on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Eternate
Specializing in e-commerce, fashion, and jewelry, Eternate was founded in 2020 and is based in New York, United States.
Denimist
Denimist provides a range of clothing items including shorts, sweaters, shirts, dresses, jeans, and more. You can find more information on their Facebook and LinkedIn pages.
