Rachel Comey

The independently stealthy shows that slow and steady wins the race.

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New York-based designer Rachel Comey founded her namesake label in 2001. Originally a men's wear-only brand, Rachel Comey has since shifted the focus to women's wear, accessories, and shoes, the last of which has become a big draw for the company.

"I wouldn't really call myself a fashion person, though sometimes I am. But there are a lot of us like that, I think — it's like the thinking-woman's section of the fashion industry."