5 European Brands You Should Know About

including my favorite pieces from a paris pop-up

One of my favorite parts of living in Paris is having access to pop-ups where small and emerging brands are often showcased. Last weekend, I went to Merci, c’est vintage’s pop-up twice because it was just that good. I had heard of a few of the brands before, but most were completely new to me.

clockwise: mosquito | laoli | turtle story | le sundial | michel piza | all images via respective brand

You can find a list of all the brands here, but I’m going to focus on the ones that have made it onto my wishlist and therefore come with a strong personal recommendation.

Mosquito

Based out of Spain, each piece from Mosquito is handmade to order, each taking about four hours to make! I had the joy of meeting Marta, the founder of this lovely brand and she was the sweetest soul. She encouraged me to try anything that caught my eye and happily chatted about each piece. Here are a few of the items living rent free in my mind.

Let’s start with the show stopper — this shell hair clip. Once I saw a picture of it in my hair, I was in love — it’s a beautiful hair adornment. It can be clipped onto a purse as a charm or attached to a shirt through a buttonhole. Marta mentioned that some customers even wear it on a bathing suit!

shell hair clip | white beaded necklace | hair pin | right image via mosquito

I also adored this hair pin — it’s a beautiful summer statement. It’s part of her newest collection and it’s perfect for summer. It’s ideal for anyone (like me) who’s often tossing their hair into a claw clip.

Mosquito also makes stunning necklaces that shine in the summer months. I was especially drawn to this jade necklace necklace with an onxy gemstone and the black one pictured above (unfortunately not on the website). Despite all the beading, they felt surprisingly lightweight and could easily be styled from day into night. I’m excited to see her upcoming collections that are expanding upon her current line. More to come soon!

Michel Piza

Based out of Milan and founded just last year by Paola, a Mexican designer, Michel Piza specializes in shoes that provide both comfort and elegance.

I’ve always been curious about mule heels and these didn’t disappoint. I was shocked at how good the mule heels felt — cushioned, supportive and with a 6 cm heel (just over 2 inches). I had a “wow” moment walking over to the mirror.

She happily chatted about each pair, encouraged me to try her collection and talked through why she chose certain materials, her background, etc. Her passion came through so effortlessly that within minutes, I knew I’d have to buy a pair at some point.

slippers | heels | lace up flat | tote bags | images via Michel Piza

The slippers were also extremely comfortable and easy to slip on for errands or a casual day while still looking chic. If you love a lace up option, they have those too. Each purchase includes a tote bag made in collaboration with WFTO-certified Cooperativa Alice — an organization that empowers incarcerated women by providing training and job opportunities. You can also purchase them separately.

ps — the heels fit true to size. The slippers run small, I recommend going up 1 size. If you have longer toes, I would consider going up 2 sizes.

LAOLI

Founded in Paris by Olivia, whose nickname “Oli” inspired the brand’s name, LAOLI specializes in fine jewelry rooted in personal history and designed for everyday moments. It’s perfect for anyone looking to curate meaningful, wearable heirlooms that will stand the test of time. Any elements that include gold, are made with solid gold so you never have to worry about tarnishing. What makes these even more special is that Olivia makes every single beaded piece herself.

shell necklace | drop necklace | red necklace

Each necklace is absolutely stunning and can be worn your way — standalone or as a layering piece. It’s hard to narrow down my favorites, but a few standouts include: this red agate beauty, this one of a kind shell necklace, and a green amethyst not yet on the website (same design here).

ps — I found the necklace clasps truly impressive, hard to describe here but one of the most secure clasps I’ve ever seen.

Le Sundial

Le Sundial, based out of Milan, was one of the only brands I had heard of before. They offer a well curated collection. Their table was full of dreamy and one of a kind pieces — I even got to see a preview of their Fall Winter 25 collection.

red shell necklace | red tassel necklace | earrings | mother of pearl necklace | right image via Le Sundial

I only took pictures of the same two necklaces, clearly I had favorites here and they reminded me of the sea: this red jasper necklace didn’t disappoint. The other one is from their Fall Winter 25 collection, so stay tuned for that one! It has a matching bracelet and brooch as well. A few more favorites from their website include these earrings made from carnelian beads, this tassel necklace inspired by Venice and this statement necklace made with mother pearls and onyx beads.

Turtle Story

I love a good hair clip. Discovering Turtle Story felt like finding a treasure trove. With the exception of the turtle logo that is made in Italy, everything is handmade in Poland. They offer a variety of hair accessories — from barrettes and spirals to classic claw clips. You’ll also find scrunchies, combs and even a wave headband. I was especially drawn to this small claw clip that is perfect for a half up and half down moment.

spiral | hair pin | left image | right image

ps — if you’re in Paris and want to shop Turtle Story in person, you can find them at one of my favorite stores called Panorama.

All featured items mentioned here.

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Have you heard of any of these brands? Do any of them catch your eye? I'd love to hear what you think!

xx Ofelia

Disclaimer: some links are affiliate links, which means I may receive a very small percentage from a sale. As always, anything that is linked are things I either own, recommend or would purchase myself.

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