Their proximity to the unique innovation happening in San Francisco and the nearby Silicon Valley provides a strong impetus to weave tech and sustainable practices into the DNA of their businesses. The Bay has long been home to new ways of thinking about how we live, and with these start-ups, it's now also changing how we dress and shop for clothes.

A few themes connect these San Francisco-based clothing start-ups, including the use of data to create customised or personalised solutions, missions of ethical and sustainable consumption, and the belief that clothing can do more than just look pretty. Not that San Francisco has ever needed help getting people to pay attention to it, but now you'll have reason to consider it in a new light.

Learn more about the 11 San Francisco-based clothing start-ups that are changing the fashion industry.

1. Everlane

It operates on a mission of “Radical Transparency,” whereby it partners with ethical factories and does not overcharge you for its high-quality basics.

2. Stitch Fix

Valued at US$2 billion, personal styling service Stitch Fix was founded in 2011 and went public just six years later. By using the technology of proprietary algorithms and the human touch of real stylists, it’s able to quickly and effectively help its members shop for clothes they like. Features like the Style Profile and Style Shuffle game ensure style preferences are continually updated and understood, so members can enjoy a highly personalised shopping experience.

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3. Athleta

Gap opened its first Gap store on Ocean Avenue in San Francisco in 1969. Forty years later, its women’s athletic wear brand Athleta was born. From colourful leggings to performance workwear and even underwear, this certified B Corp has proven to be an all-around powerhouse that combines style and fabric innovation (in the realms of both performance and sustainability) in each of its pieces.

4. ThirdLove

The CEOs of YouTube and 23andMe are investors of this bra start-up that was founded by a former Google marketing manager and is taking direct jabs at big brands like Victoria’s Secret.

By offering half sizes and 78 sizes in total, ThirdLove wants to make bras as inclusive as possible, without compromising comfort and style. A good place to start is its Fit Finder quiz, or the popular 24/7 Classic T-shirt Bra, which has more than 32,000 online reviews.

5. Modern Citizen

Another minimalist fashion brand out of the Bay Area is Modern Citizen. Here minimal does not necessarily mean boring – think smart, versatile, and efficient instead.

You’ll find basics for work, travel, and the weekend all in one place, plus accessories and home and beauty products from other small brands. Its styles are the perfect example of a foundation you can dress up or down.

6. Cuyana

Converts to Marie Kondo’s KonMari method will love this fashion start-up Cuyana. In fact, the brand has a collection of leather cases in collaboration with the organisation queen herself.

That is why it should come as no surprise that the phrase “fewer, better” drives Cuyana's business of selling long-lasting essentials like silk tops, leather bags, and bodywear. You’ll even be able to get rid of clothes you do not want (while supporting charity) through its Lean Closet programme.

7. Allbirds

Allbirds shoes may be part of the unofficial Silicon Valley uniform, but you do not have to work in tech to appreciate their extreme comfort. The original, cushiony Runners, made from wool, are the company's most recognisable style and feature an ever-rotating selection of colour options. All of its silhouettes are stripped-back in design, making them suitable for any casual occasion – including walking the hilly streets of San Francisco.

8. True & Co.

This up-and-coming brand is one of a small group of lingerie start-ups out to change the industry for good. Its signature True Body style looks more like a sports bra, but still provides considerable coverage and lift, and it’s seamless and buttery soft. The company's bras are also surprisingly affordable for their quality, starting at just US$34.

9. Rocksbox

How many times will you really wear that dazzling piece of statement jewellery? You know it and we know it: no more than once or twice.

Rocksbox, a jewellery discovery and rental membership service, solves this problem by letting you wear hand-picked jewellery (from brands like Gorjana and Kendra Scott) for as long as you want, for just US$21 a month. This way, you’ll never have to overspend on accessories again.

10. Rothy’s

If a shoe start-up can do just as well in New York City as it does in its hometown San Francisco, there’s a good sign it’s doing something right. For Rothy’s, that something is turning sustainable materials like recycled plastic water bottles into a comfortable, stylish, and machine-washable work flat.

Following up on this success, it has also launched slip-on trainers and an adorable kids’ line.

11. Le Tote

If shopping for new clothes is more paralysing than inspiring, you have an easy, commitment-free option in clothing rental service Le Tote. For a monthly fee (starting at US$79), you can wear the curated set of clothing and accessories in your box for as long you want before returning it. In case you do happen to fall in love with a piece, you can buy it for up to 50 per cent off the retail price.

When you only have so much time and energy in the day, clothing-in-a-box services like Le Tote help take the pain out of shopping.