5 female-founded fashion brands to read up on this International Women's Day

International Women's Day is a powerful reminder to champion and uplift the women in your life and beyond. And this year we're taking a look at female-founded brands that are actively making a difference.

From brands that are supporting significant charities to those whose female-led, here are the 5 fashion brands that we think are worth reading up on this International Women's Day, including some of the best British clothing brands. IWD as it's commonly referred to is also a brilliant time to support female business founders and recognise their achievements.

Many female-founded businesses also give back constantly to their own and wider communities all through the year, and it's these companies that we want to shout out on this important day of the year. So these are the business doing good, regardless of the calendar month and by supporting them, you're giving a helping hand to women all over the globe.

5 female-owned fashion brands to know

1. Rixo

Founded by best friends Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey, Rixo has become synonymous with vintage-inspired clothing that exudes a femininity and a bohemian charm.

Their collections are well known for their flattering silhouettes and eclectic prints, and very good quality materials - something which is hard to find elsewhere on the high street. Check out our round up of our favourite pieces from the Rixo spring summer collection for more insight into this brand.

This year, Rixo commemorated International Women’s Day by joining a panel discussion with esteemed female business leaders. The event aimed to inspire and empower women, fostering a community of support and shared experiences. By facilitating these conversations, Rixo continues to champion women in business and industry.

2. Albaray

Founded by three former colleagues, Paula Stewart, Karen Peacock, and Kirstie Di Stazio, Albaray is a testament to sustainable, thoughtful fashion that still has accessible price points.

Their collections offer stylish, on-trend garments with playful patterns and easy-to-wear silhouettes. A core component of the brand is their commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices.

For International Women’s Day, Albaray has partnered with Smart Works, a fantastic charity which helps to provide smart, professional clothing and coaching to unemployed women to better help their chance of employment.

From March 7th to 9th, for every Albaray item you purchase, the brand will donate one to Smart Works, allowing women to gain confidence with the clothing necessary to secure new employment opportunities. This initiative reflects Albaray’s dedication to making a real, impactful difference in women’s lives. They also support a range of charities outside of this, including The Prince's Trust and Pregnant Then Screwed.

3. LemLem

If you're looking for beautiful light beach cover ups, chic dresses and great accessories, LemLem is an artisanal brand, with resort wear at its core. Made ethically and responsibly in Africa, LemLem combines beautiful clothing alongside helping to create economic growth on the continent, whilst keeping traditional art of weaving alive in Ethopia, securing the future of many local women.

In addition to providing local employment, 5% of the brand's online sales go straight to LemLem's foundation. Since 2006, the brand has helped female artisans in Africa make their way out of poverty, creating a pathway to job opportunities, access to healthcare and building a brighter and more industrious future. Working with local social enterprises, the foundation supports women in Ethiopia and Kenya be prepared for textile and fashion jobs in Africa.

4. Rachel Jackson

Jewellery designer Rachel Jackson makes all of her pieces with spirit, and her fabulous collections feel effortlessly edgy and timeless, and each piece feels one of a kind.

In collaboration with influencer and Women for Women International ambassador Niomi Smart, Rachel Jackson has launched a special collection where 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Women for Women International.

This valuable charity has been set up to support female survivors of war in conflict-affected regions, providing them with the tools and resources to rebuild their lives. This collaboration not only offers stunning, unique jewellery but also contributes significantly to such a noble and necessary cause.

5. Sole Bliss

Founded by Lisa Kay, Sole Bliss makes stylish footwear for the often overlooked market of women with wide feet or foot issues. Their mission centres around providing women with comfortable footwear without compromising on style, something Lisa is passionate about after suffering with bunions.

In August 2020, Sole Bliss launched the “Miracle Trainer,” the first fashion trainer designed specifically for women suffering from foot issues, and now trainers are one of their best-selling items. They have developed specialist comfort technology made from three layers of underfoot cushioning and a stretch panel for those suffering from bunions.

Sole Bliss also continues to offer elegant, sophisticated heels that ensure that all women can find fashionable footwear without compromising on comfort. Lisa says, "There’s a lot of stigma around both women’s health issues and foot problems in general. Pairing red-carpet-worthy shoes with something historically considered very unglamorous - it was a challenge. But we did it, and I‘m astounded by the reception our shoes continue to get.”