Fashion trends today are diverse and ever-changing, from soft girls and baddies to cottagecore and angelcore. Among these, the indie aesthetic stands out as a popular choice. Influenced by TikTok, indie fashion features items like baby tees and oversized cardigans. Sometimes, it also includes sweatshirts, lace camisoles, chunky shoes, bright mini skirts, and baggy jeans. Usually confused with rock fashion, indie doesn’t display logos often. Instead, it focuses on eclectic, nostalgia-inspired pieces with a thrift store vibe. If creating an indie look feels overwhelming, here are some California-based brands to inspire you. And for a fun twist, try experimenting with something like the Gems Bonanza demo.
Alchemy Works
Alchemy Works brings a fresh twist to retro indie style and showcases coastal California culture. Located in L.A.’s Art District and Newport Beach’s Lido Marina, the brand offers a mix of clothing and home decor. Featuring top names like Modern Weaving and Cult Gaia, Alchemy Works delivers timeless pieces.
Waltz
Founded in 2014 by designer Danielle Colen, Waltz is all about simple, sustainable fashion. Colen focuses on creating timeless staples that help women streamline their wardrobes. Waltz stands out by emphasizing sustainability throughout its production process. This makes the brand even more appealing.
Abacus Row
If you want to embrace the indie style, check out Abacus Row. Based in San Francisco, this brand creates beautiful jewelry that perfectly fits the indie vibe. Each piece is carefully made with unique details and modern beadwork. Enhance your look with Abacus Row’s trendy pieces. For a touch of flair, pair Abacus Row’s stylish jewelry with the fun and adventurous spirit of the Big Bamboo slot game.
Altaire
Based in Santa Monica, Altaire is an accessories brand known for its stylish and functional designs. Their locally crafted bags and pouches feature geometric shapes and combine modern and classic styles. Inspired by nature, architecture, and travel, Altaire offers unique textures, details, and colors. It gives that fresh twist to the indie fashion we know and love.
Vamp
What could be better than a beautiful selection of shoes all in one place? Florence Gan, who left her career in Hollywood, followed her love for great footwear and started Vamp. Vamp first opened in Silver Lake in 2005 and moved to Los Feliz in 2009. Each item at Vamp is carefully chosen, featuring indie-style shoes and accessories. The store also highlights local artisans and well-known international designers. And if you’re looking for a fun break, you might enjoy a play Wolf Gold free while you shop.
Akin and Co
Akin and Co captures the California vibe perfectly. Their clothes give off an effortless, stylish look, ideal for weekends. From soft linens to patterned silks, they excel in relaxed, cool fashion. Their loose, breezy styles bring a fresh take on indie grunge.
Los Angeles Apparel
Los Angeles Apparel combines eco-friendliness with indie style. Committed to sustainability, the brand blends these values all while reflecting a touch of indie spirit. They focus on efficiency and source textiles from the U.S., supporting local manufacturing. This approach not only meets customer needs but also benefits the domestic industry. It also lowers their carbon footprint.
Taylor + Thomas
Taylor + Thomas, based in Downtown Los Angeles, offers cruelty-free luxury women’s footwear with a vintage indie style. Co-founders Jessica and Elizabeth bring a feminine touch to the industry, creating shoes designed by women for women. Their collections feature essential, timeless styles and emphasize sustainability, aiming to make fashion more eco-friendly.
Santa Venetia Goods
Raquel and Gemma, the founders of Santa Venetia Goods, were inspired by finding clogs at a wedding. They decided to blend their love for vintage style with a modern Californian touch. Combining their passion for vintage aesthetics and cobbling skills, they created Santa Venetia Goods. This is a collection of stylish, handmade shoes with a unique indie vibe.
The Celect
Founded in 2014 by Carrie and Murphy Martines, The Celect is known for its stylish selection of men’s and women’s clothing. Their range includes indie grunge styles, wardrobe essentials, and modern, sporty labels. They also offer chic home decor items.
Pari Desai
Knitwear designer Pari Desai, known for her couture-inspired indie style, creates pieces with runway appeal. With experience at Calvin Klein and A.L.C., her Los Angeles-based line blends luxury and urban cool. Her designs are set to become must-haves, adding a unique touch to your wardrobe.