A City Weaving Fashion, Innovation, and Identity

Cincinnati, a city steeped in a history of industrious spirit and Midwestern charm, has long been a quiet force in shaping the world of fashion and design. Beneath its grand facades and along its storied streets, a cadre of designers, artisans, and visionaries have meticulously crafted a new narrative—one that seamlessly blends the past and present, tradition and rebellion, craft and commerce. To be made in Cincinnati is to be part of a lineage of ingenuity, a movement that stretches from the elegance of red-carpet couture to the dynamic pulse of streetwear. This is a city that stitches together the threads of culture, community, and craftsmanship, proving that the Queen City reigns supreme in the art of style.

BlaCk OWned Outerwear: More Than Fashion, A Movement

At the intersection of design and social consciousness, BlaCk OWned Outerwear emerges as a beacon of empowerment and expression. Founded in 2011 by Means Cameron, this Cincinnati-born brand is more than a fashion label—it is a cultural statement. Situated at 822 Elm Street in the heart of downtown, BlaCk OWned is a hub of innovation, storytelling, and Black excellence.

With its bold, unapologetic aesthetic, the brand seamlessly blends streetwear with a deeper mission—one that challenges societal inequities and uplifts Black ownership. Nowhere is this more evident than in BlaCk OWned’s collaboration with the Cincinnati Bengals on the celebrated Stripes Don’t Come Easy collection. This partnership—born in 2020—transcended mere merchandise, becoming a symbol of unity, resilience, and community pride (Bengals.com).

BlaCk OWned’s reach extends far beyond the Queen City, forging partnerships with FC Cincinnati and the University of Cincinnati, ensuring that the brand’s ethos—bold, unwavering, and community-driven—continues to shape both the streets and the stadiums (BlackOwned19XX.com).

Totes Isotoner: Engineering Everyday Elegance

While BlaCk OWned revolutionizes streetwear, Totes Isotoner defines functional sophistication. Established in 1924 in Oakley, Ohio, this global powerhouse began with a simple innovation: the portable “totes” rain boot. What started as a practical necessity for Ohio’s temperamental climate evolved into a global empire of umbrellas, footwear, and cold-weather accessories.

Merging with Isotoner in 1997, Totes expanded its domain, introducing cutting-edge designs like the Cirrus rain boots and SolBounce sandals, both featuring the brand’s proprietary Everywear™ technology. Now under the helm of Marquee Brands and Randa Apparel & Accessories, Totes Isotoner’s influence stretches far beyond Cincinnati, but its roots remain firmly planted in the city’s legacy of craftsmanship and forward-thinking design.

Ripple Junction: Where Pop Culture Meets the Midwest

For those whose style is an extension of fandom, Ripple Junction serves as the ultimate wardrobe curator. Born in the parking lots of Grateful Dead concerts in 1992, this West Chester-based company has transformed from a grassroots operation into a pop culture juggernaut, crafting apparel that celebrates everything from anime to vintage TV classics.

What sets Ripple Junction apart is its reverence for nostalgia, married with an acute understanding of what excites modern audiences. Whether it’s a minimalist homage to Naruto or a bold, retro throwback to The Office, the brand has mastered the art of storytelling through clothing. Available through Amazon, Walmart, and their own online shop, Ripple Junction continues to bring fandom to fashion with an authenticity that resonates across generations (BuiltIn.com).

David Meister: From Cincinnati to Couture

There are designers who create fashion, and then there are designers who define elegance. David Meister belongs to the latter. A Cincinnati native and graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s prestigious College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning, Meister’s name has become synonymous with sophisticated evening wear that exudes glamour and ease.

Meister’s career, which began in the studios of Danskin, has led to his designs gracing the figures of Hollywood’s elite, from Diane Lane to Viola Davis. His collections—whether featured at Bergdorf Goodman or the most exclusive red carpets—speak to an ethos of timeless femininity, proof that Cincinnati’s influence extends well beyond the Ohio River and onto the world’s most glittering stages (Encyclopedia.com).

The Most Beautiful Thing in The World Is: The Art of Curation

For those seeking a more intimate, curated experience, The Most Beautiful Thing in The World Is (TMBTITWI) offers a glimpse into global fashion, right in the heart of Over-the-Rhine. Founded by Carrington Broeman, this boutique is a love letter to avant-garde designers and artisans, featuring brands like Anaak, Cordera, and Julia Heuer.

TMBTITWI is more than a store—it’s a gallery of wearable art, where each piece tells a story. Whether it’s an architectural coat from 7115 by Szeki or a handcrafted ceramic piece nestled between racks of silk and linen, this boutique embodies the intersection of fashion, culture, and craftsmanship. For those who believe that clothing should be both beautiful and meaningful, this is a destination unto itself (Garmentory.com).

Cladwell: Fashion, Simplified

In an age of overconsumption, Cladwell stands apart as an advocate for intentional fashion. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Cladwell champions the capsule wardrobe philosophy, encouraging users to wear more of what they own and buy with purpose.

With its Cladwell App, users can digitize their wardrobes, receive outfit recommendations based on weather and lifestyle, and explore a minimalist approach to dressing. The company’s innovative AI-powered styling tool, Ask Cladwell, transforms fashion from an overwhelming decision to an effortless expression of personal style.

Through education, technology, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Cladwell is proving that the most stylish choice is also the most mindful (Cladwell.com).

Cincinnati: A City of Style, Substance, and Craft

From the raw energy of BlaCk OWned Outerwear to the refined elegance of David Meister, Cincinnati’s fashion legacy is as diverse as it is distinguished. Whether redefining streetwear, perfecting pop culture nostalgia, or crafting couture fit for the world's most exclusive soirées, this city is more than just an unexpected fashion destination—it is a movement, a moment, and a testament to the enduring power of great design.

For those seeking fashion with soul, history, and heart, look no further than Cincinnati—where style isn’t just made, it’s lived.