Beyoncé: Queen of the Universe and Champion of Emerging Brands

I can think of few things that could do more for a brand—emerging or established—than the approval and endorsement of one Queen B, ruler of the Beyhive and arguably the most famous woman on the planet. And, as someone who is regularly making statements with her thoughtful and intentional fashion choices, she definitely knows what power she holds. That’s why we’re always pleased when Beyoncé decides to use her clout to support an on-the-rise brand that might not even need the exposure but definitely is deserving of it. Especially when you consider the fact that every major fashion house from Louis Vuitton to Saint Laurent to Ralph & Russo would drop anything to work with her, or collaborate with her, at a moment's notice. 

If her viral By Far bag recently caught your attention, you’re not alone, but I’m here to tell you it’s actually just one of many times Mrs. Carter has worn a piece (or entire outfit) from an emerging brand those of us in our fashion bubble love or, in some cases, haven’t even heard of yet. To see, read about, and shop six such instances, just keep scrolling. 

By Far

While the majority of the internet was busy making memes, fashion girls everywhere freaked out when Beyoncé was spotted carrying an Insta-famous By Far bag courtside at the NBA finals. It might sound like no big deal, but for a brand that only launched handbags a year or so ago, it’s major. For those of us who also can’t resist By Far accessories, it was a "celebs, they’re just like us” moment like no other. See a close-up in the second slide below.

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Marine Serre

If you’re at all familiar with the young Parisian brand Marine Serre, then you know how easy it is to spot its trademark half-moon print. Cue the Slacks, DMs, and collective chatter among editors when, for another courtside look, Bey opted for a statement-making, head-to-toe bodysuit from the brand. If anyone didn’t know about the cult label before, after this look (and the many photos she understandably couldn’t help but post in the outfit), they must.

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EnaGancio & L'Afshar

For an outing with Jay-Z this past February, Beyoncé stepped out in two emerging labels—one of which was still selling through Etsy at the time. The suit by Nigerian designer EnaGancio was just part of her regular efforts to support African designers and paired perfectly with her purple bag by Dubai-based label L’Afshar (which can be seen on slide three of the below Instagram post).

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Cult Gaia

While anyone with an Instagram account is probably familiar with Cult Gaia’s longtime handbag hit, the Arc bag (which Beyoncé as also worn in the past), they may not all have known about the brands more recent foray into RTW. Of course, Bey did, as she was spotted in one of the brand’s cut-out dresses back in February. The best part? It’s still in stock for anyone who wants to get the look.

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Pop & Suki

I’d like to think that even if you’re Suki Waterhouse, co-founder of accessories brand Pop & Suki who just so happens to be a famous English model and actress, a Beyoncé sighting in a handbag you designed has to be a pretty big deal. Especially when you consider that the line was only launched less than three years ago.

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Attico

More recently, Bey was (literally) spotted in a summer-ready polka-dot top from fashion-girl favorite Attico, which she paired with shorts, an of-the-moment anklet, and matching yellow pumps. Despite only launching in 2016, the brand has cemented its status in the fashion world thanks to its (many) trend-setting It pieces. Beyoncé's endorsement only adds to the appeal.

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