January 28,2021

While the thought of real human interactions might be a distant memory, finding that unique item that tells a story through the hands of real people that made it could be just the thing you need to feel something. Not only are artisanal items beautifully unique but they support keeping traditional craftsmanship alive and individual artisans, rather than putting money into the pockets of bigger corporations that prioritize quantity over quality.

Here are 5 brands that we love that make everything by hand.

1. Gabe Gordon

The Providence-based textile artist and designer weaves knitwear that would make your grandmother cry. He is heavily inspired by the decay and nostalgia of worn cloth and his fabrics and garments are an assemblage of his own histories and memories. Each of his pieces are hand-loomed and dyed, made by using discarded yarns from local mills.

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2. Vanina

The Lebanon-based brand is run by childhood friends, Tatiana Fayad and Joanne Hayek. Their light-hearted and beautifully crafted evening bags are locally made by a team of artisans in Beirut using a zero-waste concept. Each piece’s unique design is dictated by the upcycled materials available.

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3. Jennifer Behr

From their Brooklyn Studio, accessories are meticulously sculpted by hand into beautiful headpieces and jewelry using luxurious and locally sourced fabrics. Storytelling lays at the heart of each piece which is interwoven with a sense of romanticism and ethereal appeal. From design to shipping, each step is carefully considered to reduce the brand's carbon footprint, using vintage fabrics where possible and keeping production local.

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4. Corey Moranis

Each piece designed by Canadian designer, Corey Moranis, is a hand-bent work of art made from lucite rods.“I’m drawn to Lucite for its ethereal nature: it turns your body into a suncatcher, and its crystalline effect changes with the light from day to night.” If you’re looking for a feel-good purchase, these candy-colored rings and bracelets literally glisten with joy.

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5. Fisch

FISCH is an eco-innovative swimwear label and brainchild of Swedish designer Agnes Fischer, inspired by her childhood spent in Saint Barthélemy snorkeling and exploring the island’s wildlife. Each and every piece is made from regenerated fishing nets and ocean waste, and handmade in Italy.

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