As a female business owner with a team primarily made up of women, I’m excited to once again recognize International Women’s Day on March 8th - a day to pause and commemorate where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going as women in industry. While we’ve made huge strides since its inception in 1911, the discrepancies between the sexes are as stark as ever. The gender pay gap continues to be just as real and relevant, despite the increase of women in management and leadership roles. It’s no wonder why so many of us have started our own businesses - there are 12.3 million women-owned businesses and counting!

At Prism, we carry almost 100 brands owned by women, so it’s no secret that working with women is an important part of our identity. Not only do women know how to make amazing clothes, jewelry, and home goods for women, they’re talented and driven multi-taskers who inspire me everyday. Here are just a few of our favorite female-owned brands making big moves:

LACAUSA is a staff and customer favorite that continues to make the best basics ever. Rebecca Grenell, the brand’s owner and designer, has stayed true to her vision of making quality clothes under ethical conditions for modern women locally in Los Angeles.

Isadora Alvarez, the owner of Back Beat Rags, moved to LA from the Philippines in her 20’s as a vintage seller and has built a brand based on sustainability and accessibility. Her easy-wearing styles are made by family-owned business using low-impact materials right in Los Angeles.

One of our newest obsessions is sunglass brand, Velvet Canyon. Founded by sisters Bec Nolan and Cass Moase alongside photographer Ali Mitton, not only are their sunnies totally swoon-worthy, but their commitment to positive change, diversity, and equality make them a partner we’re proud to work with.

Kayti, the owner of MATE the Label has always been a leader on the cutting edge of forward-thinking fashion. Her focus on crafting elevated essentials that only use sustainable and ethical practices have inspired so many in our industry.

This is just a very small snapshot of all the talent we have surrounding our boutiques. The women who run our boutiques, lend their art to our walls, their strength and creativity to building our fixtures and displays, and their passion to filling our stores with beautiful product keep us going every single day. I’m beyond grateful to be in the company of inspiring individuals not just leading their gender, but their industry.