By Fiona Tedds, New York Editor
As we go into the cooler days, it's a joy to fill your life with color and unique pieces that provoke thought and conversation, as well being supremely stylish. Pieces produced by small businesses, especially in my adopted home of NYC, are always up there in my picks.
$42 USD
I love the minimal but powerful graphics Johanna designs and this eye-catching reminder to VOTE nestled into cleavage - especially printed on a sustainable cotton, pink shirt - is perfect for the month of October as we fight continue our fight against breast cancer.
PC: JohannaBjörk
$355 USD
Made of vegan leather with her iconic orb logo on the front, this charming crossbody bag is a reminder from the legendary activist and designer that love always rules, especially in this playful and chic form.
PC: Vivienne Westwood
$2,450 USD
All of Alyson's luxurious designs are produced in Italy and New York, and made from sustainably sourced leather and suede in companies where there is a strong ethical commitment to the best working conditions possible. This beautiful suede coat in this divine orange color is a classic that would brighten any wardrobe for years.
PC: Alyson Eastman
$139 USD
A great mini skirt that can be worn with boots and tights in the fall is a staple for any capsule wardrobe, which Vetta specializes in pulling together for you. This one is made from organic cotton stretch denim, and is the perfect piece paired with lots of color or as part of the NY uniform – all black!
PC: Vetta
$375 USD
Liya Kebede's artisanally-produced dresses, made in her home country of Ethiopia, are the perfect pieces whether you are enjoying warmer climates or just hunkering down at home and want something beautiful, stylish and comfortable.
PC: Lemlem
$150 USD
If you're going to be ferocious, it's always so much chicer in French, and feels so much better when it's in soft organic cotton. This gorgeous sweatshirt from Sold Out, made in NYC, fulfills all those criteria and besides it's always fun watching people's faces after they've used Google translate.
PC: Sold Out
From $14 USD
Selina makes the most charming, upcycled blouses and masks constructed from beautiful, vintage linens that she expertly reworks into gorgeous, unique garments. She also recognizes the strong link between environmentalism, racial equality and socio-economic justice, and uses her products to fundraise for causes that are important to her.
PC: Selina Sanders
$345 USD
New York hat makers Monrowe make some stylishly sharp hats and with its wide brim and rock'n'roll vibes, their Franklin hat is the perfect punctuating accessory for any outfit.
PC: Monrowe