Massachusetts is home to a vibrant fashion design industry. This sector features a range of companies from luxury retailers to niche brands, focusing on everything from handmade accessories to high-quality apparel. Known for its commitment to sustainability, many firms in the area are integrating eco-friendly practices into their production processes. Additionally, the growing trend of customization and made-to-order products reflects changing consumer preferences. As the industry evolves, technology, such as design software and online retailing, is influencing how businesses operate and engage with consumers.

The companies listed here vary in size, employing between 1 to 200 people. Most are concentrated in urban areas like Boston, with several having foundations spanning over three decades. Specializations include handcrafted shoes, intimate apparel, and ethical clothing lines, highlighting Massachusetts' mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern fashion sensibilities. Newer entrants also emphasize sustainability and technological advancements, indicating that innovation is a common focus across the region's fashion scene.

Continue reading to discover the top fashion design companies in Massachusetts.

Top 21 Fashion Design Companies in Massachusetts

1. Brahmin Leather Works

• Website: brahmin.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Fairhaven, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: September 2018
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: brahminleatherworks

Brahmin Leather Works, based in Fairhaven, Massachusetts, specializes in designer leather handbags and accessories. Founded in 1982, the company has carved out a niche in the fashion industry by offering a wide range of products, including handbags, wallets, and gifts. Brahmin targets consumers who appreciate stylish and high-quality fashion items. The company primarily operates through its online store, providing a convenient shopping experience for its customers. Brahmin is also known for its commitment to social causes, exemplified by its Empower Collections, which contribute a portion of sales to breast cancer awareness initiatives. This involvement not only enhances their brand image but also aligns with contemporary consumer values.

2. M.Gemi

• Website: mgemi.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $23.5M, July 2019
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: m-gemi

M.Gemi is a fashion brand based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializing in handcrafted Italian shoes and accessories. Founded in 2014, the company offers a range of products, including women's and men's shoes, handbags, and belts. M.Gemi targets consumers who appreciate quality and style, emphasizing its commitment to Italian craftsmanship. The brand showcases its artisans, highlighting the skilled individuals behind each product, which reinforces its dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship. M.Gemi provides a seamless online shopping experience, featuring free shipping and easy returns, which enhances customer satisfaction. The company has received funding amounting to over $23 million, reflecting strong investor interest and confidence in its business model and growth trajectory.

3. Ellie Kai

• Website: elliekai.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $1.4M, July 2015
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ellie-kai

Ellie Kai, founded in 2012 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a women's clothing brand that emphasizes made-to-order apparel. The company prides itself on thoughtful product design, ensuring that every detail is considered in the creation of their garments. Ellie Kai offers personalized styling sessions, allowing customers to curate their wardrobes with the help of style consultants. This hands-on approach not only enhances customer experience but also fosters a community around the brand. The company is committed to ethical manufacturing practices, sourcing materials transparently, and maintaining a fair work environment. With a focus on minimizing production waste, Ellie Kai's made-to-order model reflects a growing trend towards sustainability in fashion. The company has received funding, with a notable amount of approximately $1.4 million reported in 2015, which supports its operations and growth in the competitive fashion market.

4. Ceri

• Website: ceriboutique.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Tunisia 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: ceri

Ceri Boutique, located in Newton Centre, Massachusetts, has been a staple in the local fashion scene since its founding in 1982. The boutique specializes in women's clothing, handbags, and accessories, showcasing a carefully curated selection of items from both international and select domestic labels. Ceri Boutique has built a reputation for offering innovative and hard-to-find fashion pieces, appealing to a clientele that includes artists, professionals, and educators. The store's recent relocation to a new space on Langley Road reflects its commitment to providing an inviting shopping experience. Additionally, Ceri has embraced e-commerce, allowing customers to access its unique offerings online. This strategic move has broadened its customer base beyond the local community, making it a relevant player in the fashion industry.

5. Sara Campbell

• Website: saracampbell.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $550,000, June 2013
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: saracampbellltd

Sara Campbell is a Boston-based women's apparel retailer founded in 1985. The company specializes in stylish clothing and accessories, with a strong emphasis on high-quality, made-in-USA products. Sara Campbell aims to cater to fashion-conscious consumers by offering a variety of collections that blend comfort and style. The brand is known for its signature items, such as the Famous Sheri Pants, which combine the comfort of yoga pants with the elegance of tailored trousers. The company operates with a focus on customer satisfaction and community engagement, crafting small, mindful collections that reflect contemporary fashion trends. Sara Campbell has also received funding, with a reported amount of $550,000 in 2013, indicating some level of investor interest in their business model and growth potential.

6. Dawson Forte Cashmere

• Website: dawsonforte.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Canton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%
• Latest funding: March 2024
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dawson-forte-cashmere

Dawson Forte Cashmere, founded in 1987, is a luxury cashmere manufacturer based in Canton, Massachusetts. The company specializes in high-quality knitwear and accessories, offering a range of services that include design, sourcing, and order fulfillment tailored to the fashion industry. With a focus on craftsmanship and sustainability, Dawson Forte creates products inspired by nature and designed for longevity. Their operational footprint spans the United States and China, with offices in Boston, New York, and Shanghai. The company prides itself on adhering to strict European production standards and maintaining a rigorous quality control process. Dawson Forte is recognized for its commitment to social and environmental integrity, ensuring that its practices are responsible and transparent. This dedication to quality and ethical production positions Dawson Forte as a significant player in the luxury fashion sector.

7. Mr. Sid

• Website: mrsid.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Newton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mrsid

Mr. Sid, based in Newton, Massachusetts, is a family-owned luxury clothing retailer that has been serving customers since 1967. The company specializes in high-end men's and women's fashion, offering a wide range of tailored clothing, footwear, and accessories. Mr. Sid prides itself on providing personalized styling services, ensuring that clients receive a tailored experience that meets their individual needs. The store features a carefully curated selection of premium brands, including renowned names in the fashion industry. Additionally, Mr. Sid operates a barber shop, enhancing the overall customer experience by offering grooming services. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in their extensive tailoring services and the expertise of their staff, making them a notable player in the fashion sector.

8. Cncpts

• Website: cncpts.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Arab Emirates 6%, China 3%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: concepts-international-llc

Cncpts, pronounced as Concepts, is a private retail company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1996 by Tarek Hassan. The company specializes in streetwear and luxury fashion, offering a wide range of products including footwear, apparel, and accessories. Cncpts operates brick-and-mortar stores in key locations such as New York City, Miami, and Dubai, with its flagship store in Boston. The company is known for its innovative collaborations with various global fashion brands, enhancing its reputation in the industry. Cncpts also features an in-house private label line, showcasing its design capabilities and commitment to quality. With a strong online presence, Cncpts caters to a fashion-forward audience seeking trendy and high-quality items.

9. Bobbles and Lace, LLC

• Website: bobblesandlace.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Marblehead, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bobbles-and-lace-llc

Bobbles and Lace, LLC is a fashion retailer based in Marblehead, Massachusetts, specializing in women's clothing and accessories. Since its inception in 2008, the company has aimed to provide stylish and affordable fashion options, including dresses, tops, shoes, and jewelry. Bobbles and Lace emphasizes a personalized shopping experience, fostering long-lasting relationships with its clientele. The company operates entirely within the United States and has a workforce of approximately 60 employees, reflecting a small to medium-sized business model. Their focus on customer engagement and community building positions them as a relevant player in the fashion retail industry, although they do not engage in fashion design in the traditional sense.

10. carla

• Website: carlavoorvrouwelijkemode.nl
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Russell, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Norway 33%, Netherlands 33%, United States (USA) 33%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: carla

Carla is a family-owned fashion retailer based in Russell, Massachusetts, specializing in women's clothing. Founded in 2007, the company has carved out a niche by offering a unique collection of dresses and stylish outfits tailored for various occasions. Carla emphasizes personal styling services and private shopping experiences, catering to women who seek fashionable attire. Their approach includes not only a physical store but also an online webshop, allowing customers to shop conveniently. The company showcases a commitment to sustainable fashion and hosts events such as trend presentations and masterclasses, further engaging with their clientele. Carla's employee distribution spans across Norway, the Netherlands, and the USA, reflecting a broader appeal in the fashion market. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model.

11. Mayfly

• Website: mayflybus.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Woburn, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: mayflybus

Mayfly is a sustainable fashion brand based in Woburn, Massachusetts, founded in 2020 by artist Alex DiMauro. The company specializes in handmade accessories, utilizing upcycled materials to create unique items that appeal to consumers who prioritize sustainability and creativity. Mayfly operates a collaborative space known as the Mayfly Co-Lab, where local artists can showcase their work and participate in workshops. This initiative not only promotes sustainable practices but also fosters community engagement. The brand's offerings include items like handmade bows and window totes, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship and environmental responsibility. Mayfly actively participates in local markets and events, further solidifying its presence in the fashion industry.

12. Revolve Boutiques

• Website: revolveboutiques.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Belmont, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: revolve-boutiques

Revolve Boutiques, founded in 2009 and based in Belmont, Massachusetts, is a family-owned luxury consignment retailer. The company specializes in pre-owned designer clothing, accessories, and shoes, catering to a clientele that values both quality and affordability. With multiple boutique locations, including Belmont Center and Newbury St. Boston, Revolve provides a platform for individuals to sell their luxury items, promoting a circular economy in fashion. Their inventory features a range of high-end brands such as Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, appealing to fashion-savvy consumers. The company emphasizes authenticity and quality, ensuring that all items sold are genuine and in excellent condition. Revolve Boutiques also engages with its community through initiatives like the Closet Concierge service, which assists customers in selling their items. This involvement highlights their commitment to customer service and the broader fashion industry.

13. LIT Boutique

• Website: litboutique.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lit-boutique

LIT Boutique, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private fashion retailer that has been operational since 2005. The company focuses on trendy clothing and accessories, offering a wide array of products such as dresses, tops, denim, and various accessories. LIT Boutique aims to serve fashion-conscious consumers who seek to enhance their style with contemporary pieces. The business model is primarily direct-to-consumer, leveraging an online platform that facilitates easy shopping and returns. With a team of around 23 employees, LIT Boutique has carved out a niche in the fashion industry, emphasizing customer satisfaction and trend alignment. Their website highlights a curated selection of brands and products, showcasing their commitment to staying current with fashion trends.

14. Bennett and Company

• Website: bennettcompany.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bennett-%26-company

Bennett and Company, established in 1985 by Jacalyn E.S. Bennett, is an intimate apparel manufacturer based in Newburyport, Massachusetts. The company specializes in the design and production of women's lingerie, loungewear, and accessories. With a workforce of approximately 53 employees, Bennett and Company has built a reputation for providing high-quality product development and manufacturing services to various retail brands. Their design team is known for its creativity and innovation, drawing from a catalog of over 30 years of garment styles. The company operates with a strong commitment to ethical practices, sourcing sustainable materials, and ensuring safe working conditions in their manufacturing facilities. They have also received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise, highlighting their dedication to social responsibility and community support. Bennett and Company continues to thrive in the fashion industry by adapting to market needs and maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability.

15. Habitat Clothes To Live In

• Website: habitatclothes.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sharon, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: habitatclothestolivein

Habitat Clothes To Live In, founded in 1999 and based in Sharon, Massachusetts, is a private clothing retailer that specializes in women's apparel. The company offers a range of clothing items, including tops, bottoms, sweaters, jackets, and dresses, catering to consumers who seek stylish and comfortable options. Habitat Clothes emphasizes unique designs and small batch production, which not only supports local boutiques but also aligns with the growing consumer preference for sustainable and ethically produced fashion. The brand's mission is to create specialty clothing that fits the unique bodies and lifestyles of its customers. With a dedicated team of 28 employees, Habitat Clothes has carved out a niche in the fashion industry, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction, as reflected in their glowing reviews. The company operates entirely within the United States, ensuring a localized approach to its business model.

16. Maxwell & Co

• Website: maxwellandco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Falmouth, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: maxwell-%26-co

Maxwell & Co, founded in 1984 and located in Falmouth, Massachusetts, is a private fashion retailer specializing in curated collections of clothing and accessories for both men and women. The company prides itself on offering a personalized shopping experience, focusing on high-quality fashion that allows customers to express their individual style. With a team of 32 employees, Maxwell & Co is dedicated to sourcing unique items that are not typically found in standard retail settings. They collaborate with various designers to ensure that their offerings include exclusive models and fabrics tailored specifically for their clientele. Their approach includes seasonal presentations of curated looks, which highlights their commitment to staying current in the fashion industry while catering to the tastes of their customers. Maxwell & Co also operates a pop-up service called MaxwellSTUDIO, bringing their curated selections directly to different neighborhoods, further enhancing their engagement with the fashion community.

17. Highline United

• Website: highlineunited.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dedham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: highline-united

Highline United, founded in 2008 and based in Dedham, Massachusetts, is a footwear company dedicated to the design, manufacture, and distribution of both branded and private label footwear. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, the company prides itself on producing high-quality shoes that cater to various market segments. Highline United operates several in-house brands, including ASH, which is known for its French flair and Italian heritage design, Isaac Mizrahi, which embodies classic American fashion, and Sanctuary, a modern lifestyle brand focused on sustainability. The company maintains a vertically integrated approach, controlling all aspects of production, from sourcing materials to logistics, ensuring efficiency and quality in their offerings. Their design team actively seeks inspiration globally, allowing them to stay current with trends and consumer preferences. Highline United's manufacturing capabilities, particularly in their facility in Dongguang, China, enable them to produce premium-grade footwear efficiently.

18. Mahi Gold

• Website: mahigold.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chatham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, India 8%, Pakistan 8%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mahi-gold

Mahi Gold is a private clothing retailer based in Chatham, Massachusetts, established in 2008. The company specializes in women's beach dresses and resort wear, offering a range of stylish apparel and accessories designed for fashion-conscious consumers. Mahi Gold operates primarily through its online store, making it easy for customers to access their seasonal collections and best-selling items. The brand emphasizes quality and style, with a focus on prints and fabrics that resonate with their target audience. With a workforce of around 40 employees, Mahi Gold has a significant presence in the U.S. market, complemented by a small percentage of employees in India and Pakistan. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model.

19. RANDOLPH Sunglasses (RE)

• Website: randolphusa.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Randolph, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Sweden 8%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $200,000, March 2024
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: randolph-engineering-inc-

RANDOLPH Sunglasses (RE), officially known as Randolph Engineering, Inc., is a family-owned company based in Randolph, Massachusetts. Established in 1973, the company specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality eyewear, including sunglasses and prescription glasses. With a workforce of around 38 employees, RANDOLPH emphasizes craftsmanship and American-made products, ensuring that each pair of sunglasses is handcrafted in the USA. The company offers a range of styles, including their iconic aviators, and has collections that cater to both men and women. Their products are known for their durability and stylish designs, appealing to consumers who value both aesthetics and functionality. Recently, RANDOLPH received a grant of $200,000 in March 2024, which indicates ongoing support for their operations and potential growth in the eyewear market. The brand's military heritage and collaborations further enhance its presence in the fashion industry, making it a notable player in the eyewear segment.

20. For Now

• Website: itsfornow.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: for-now

For Now is a retail company based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2017. The company operates a store located at 48 Centre Street, Nantucket, MA, where it offers a curated selection of fashion items, home decor, and beauty products. With a focus on Nantucket-inspired collections, For Now aims to provide an engaging shopping experience that resonates with consumers looking for stylish and unique items for various occasions. Their product range includes clothing, accessories, and home goods, reflecting a commitment to quality and aesthetic appeal. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model since its inception.

21. Sxd

• Website: sxd-ai.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $216,000, June 2023
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: shelly-xu-design

Sxd, Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private design technology firm established in 2022. The company specializes in zero waste design solutions tailored for the fashion industry. Sxd's flagship product, SXD AI, is a software that converts design sketches into sustainable patterns, significantly minimizing fabric waste during production. This innovative approach not only aids fashion brands in enhancing their sustainability efforts but also addresses the pressing issue of textile waste, which amounts to millions of tons annually. Sxd has attracted attention for its impactful work, winning the Global Change Award in 2023, which recognizes their contributions to sustainable fashion. The company has also engaged in partnerships, such as creating custom zero waste designs for corporate clients, further solidifying its role in the industry. With a small team of dedicated professionals, Sxd is positioned as a forward-thinking player in the fashion design sector, focusing on both creativity and environmental responsibility.

Fashion Design Insights: Key Companies in Massachusetts

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Brahmin Leather Works	Fairhaven, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1982	Corporate
M.Gemi	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2014	Venture Capital
Ellie Kai	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2012	Venture Capital
Ceri	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	1-10	1982	Private
Sara Campbell	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1985	Private
Dawson Forte Cashmere	Canton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	1987	Corporate
Mr. Sid	Newton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	1967	Family Owned
Cncpts	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1996	Private
Bobbles and Lace, LLC	Marblehead, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private
carla	Russell, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	1-10	2007	Family Owned
Mayfly	Woburn, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	1-10	2020	Private
Revolve Boutiques	Belmont, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2009	Family Owned
LIT Boutique	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private
Bennett and Company	Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	1984	Private
Habitat Clothes To Live In	Sharon, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
Maxwell & Co	Falmouth, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	1984	Private
Highline United	Dedham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private
Mahi Gold	Chatham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private
RANDOLPH Sunglasses (RE)	Randolph, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1973	Family Owned
For Now	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	1-10	2017	Private
Sxd	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	1-10	2022	Private

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