I've said it before, and I'll say it again, it's all about the mid-range designer brands right now. Of course, there will always be room for the likes of Gucci and Saint Laurent.
But the rise of labels like STAUD and Ganni proves there is a market for brands that are a little pricier and more special than the high street, but that you can still afford without saving up for six months.
With that in mind, here are six mid-price designers I'm getting excited about for AW18, as shared by Browns, all priced around £200-£400.
MATÉRIEL (launching soon)
This is a Georgian fashion collective created in 2012 on the foundations of Fashion House Materia, one of the biggest textile producers in the USSR, that dated back to 1949, and is focused on the new generation of home-grown design talents. Currently the designers are Lado Bokuchava and Aleksandre Akhalkatsishvili.
Situationist
Shop now: Situationist Strapless Fitted Wool Dress for £490 from Browns
This brand by Irakli Rusadze is one of the few Georgian labels that has had success internationally. National identity is a very important reference for the brand: his suiting is strong, and other tailored items like leather coats, have a special one-off vintage feel. Their visual language at times is bold, dark, abstract, ambiguous and not just about documenting the clothes but about evoking a certain emotion, desire or experience.
By Timo
Shop now: By Timo Floral Print And Broderie Anglaise Detail Mini Dress for £190 from Browns
Created by Tine Mollatt in 2004, By Timo offers romantic bohemian styles made with integrity. Exclusively stocked at Browns, there are 8 beautiful styles to choose from, bringing modern romance to timeless craftsmanship.
Low Classic
Shop now: Low Classic One Button Down Double-Breasted Blazer for £325 from Browns
Known for its clean, classic designs, unique materials and youthful energy, Low Classic is a Korean womenswear brand, launched in 2009 by Lee Myungshin, Hwang Hyng-ji and Park Jin-seon. It is sophisticated and quirky, easy to style and most importantly it’s accessible. Designed for confident people who want something easy to wear. Today the label is huge across Asia but sold only in two locations in the US, and Browns is the first Europe destination.
Aleksandre Akhalkatsishvili (launching soon)
One of the signers of fashion collective Materiel, this is hist first own collection, launching exclusively at Browns. His signature details include minimalistic shapes and lines and unexpected cut out details, and bold use of colour.
CAP
Shop now: Cap Morgane Chunky Knit Sweater for £380 from Browns
CAP is an Amsterdam based knitwear label that works with colourful yarns to develop a unique RTW offer through superior form, fit and fabrication.
