Grace Sun

Who's behind it? Launched last spring, the New York-based label is the brainchild of Parsons The New School for Design alumna Grace Sun and Emerald Ku, a Cornell University-educated entrepreneur based in Shanghai. Sun, who had worked as a graphic and internet designer for 12 years, decided to make the leap into fashion when Ku approached her with a view to creating a line together. Although Sun was relatively new to the industry (despite having internships with Rachel Roy and Phillip Lim under her belt), the label took off quickly and has been spotted on celebrities such as Charlize Theron, Paris Hilton and Heidi Klum, and is available at stores as prestigious as Barneys New York and Ron Herman in Los Angeles.

Why do we love it? Sun's clothes are on-trend but not intimidating. '[The brand is] fashionable yet versatile, feminine yet tailored and, most of all, reflects my personal touch and aesthetics,' she says. The clothes are functional and modern, without being bogged down by overly feminine details.

For spring, expect plenty of bright colours and patterns inspired by Sun's recent holiday in the Caribbean. Signature pieces include a printed camisole top (right; US$78) paired with a simple cotton skirt (right; US$58), a tank waterfall dress (US$128) and a peasant dress with small pleats on the sleeve (US$128).