This year has been particularly tough on small businesses. As many of us continue to navigate an uncertain economy, we have done what we know how to do best...stay our feet!
In honor of Small Business Saturday, here are a few of my favorite fellow female business owners that continue to inspire me every day.
Abby Alley - This Chicago-based, accessory line has the most beautiful, minimalist bags and jewelry. Abby Alley partners with makers in Kenya and Tanzania to produce their fair trade line while maintaining the high standards for quality. All of their products are handmade, and by nature are small-batch.
Ally Shoes - This small business has big dreams of shaking up the shoe industry. Ally Shoes are for women by women. Renowned for their signature pain-free heels. Ally shoes is passionate about empowering women through fashion and making luxury footwear more accessible for women on the move.
Firebird Kids - A standout kids’ gift — soft, practical, and beautifully made. These hoodies blend 15% cashmere for that ultra-soft, elevated feel with 85% premium cotton to keep them practical, breathable, and fully machine-washable. They’re incredibly comfortable — the kind of piece children wear nonstop — and they come in a handful of beautiful, thoughtfully chosen colors. Add a dreamy gift box and it becomes a complete, ready-to-give present. With 25% off sitewide over Black Friday weekend, it’s the perfect time to pick one up before the most popular sizes go.
Lacson Ravello - Kristina Lacson McConnico is making sustainable shopping easy. With her approachable designs at amazing price points, Kristina is dressing every woman they way they want to be dressed, in a mixture of every day statement pieces that are comfortable and well made.
Lilla Barn - Lilla Barn makes thoughtful, durable products for adventurous kids of all ages. Sustainably-made with organic textiles and a Scandinavian sensibility, their clothes are made for fun. Lilla Barn values self-expression and offers colors and patterns for everyone who loves to stand out.
Little Goodall - Designed by founder Molly Goodall, Little Goodall is in the business of creating magical clothing for children. Through their partnership with literary legacies like "The World of Eric Carle" and "Paddington" Little Goodall designs and ethically manufactures the most memorable coats, clothing, and accessories.
Luvons - Chic enough for company, cozy enough for every day. Luvons creates slippers that don’t look like slippers. Their best-selling Devon collection is designed for women who want comfort and style, whether relaxing at home, hosting dinner guests, or stepping out for a quick errand.
Michelle Starbuck Design - A true collector and artist, Michelle Starbuck Amos, combines vintage pieces with new materials to create something truly unique. Her modern jewelry designs give a gentle nod to eras of the past while giving the wearer a completely fresh look.
Production Mode - Production Mode is independent, slow fashion brand specializing in accessible statement pieces. Designer, Jamie Hayes interests lie at the intersection of fashion, art, labor, and identity. Production Mode is ethically-made, built to last, and imbued with authenticity and beauty.
Sophia Reyes - Sophia Reyes began with the belief that good design is built on great materials and even better craftsmanship. The line is known for versatile wardrobe favorites designed and made in limited edition prints and fabrics. All products are lovingly designed, draped, patterned, cut, and sewn in Chicago.
Wulfka - is a sustainable, size-inclusive brand that is manufactured in Chicago. Made with love and plant-based fabrics like bamboo, cotton, and tencel, every piece is designed to be worn for years to come. This season is full of cozy sweat sets to keep you cuddly and warm all winter!
