Sort of in a particular order, these are 10 brands whose clothes consistently have made their way onto my wish list and into my closet in the time I’ve been at MyShape.

1. BCBG Max Azria

I feel like BCBG works this magic that turns trends into classics. The designers there really understand which innovations from the runway flatter a woman’s body and have the potential to stick around for a while. They’ve always got a perfect little black dress or two available, but they also use color and print expertly. I love what they’ve done lately with draping, color blocking and abstract motifs. Oh, and they also recently came up with this amazing pencil skirt that somehow makes elastic waist insets look haute.

2. Max & Cleo

You might already know this, but Max & Cleo is a division of BCBG that exclusively designs dresses at a lower price point than BCBG Max Azria. I had to talk about Max & Cleo too, though, because this line is just outstanding in its own right. They have some adorable vintage-inspired dresses on our site now with all sorts of pretty touches, from beautifully executed pleats and gathers to organza and lace detail that’s not in the least frou-frou.

3. Level 99

I love, love, love Level 99’s jeans. They’re so soft and stretchy, and I’m grateful that they often come in plain, dark washes since I’m not a fan of fading that makes my thighs and butt look larger. I’m also looking forward to seeing their new shorts for this spring and summer. I bought a pair of last year’s on sale and wore them to a beach picnic last weekend…super comfy and fine for walking a mile and a half through the streets of Santa Monica since they fall just above the knee.

4. Nanette Lepore

I’ve been a fan of Nanette Lepore ever since I first discovered her and bought a wool dress of hers that looks like it traveled straight out of the ’40s. And then I found out she still has her clothes manufactured locally (for her, in New York City’s Garment Center). How cool, and rare, is that? Check out the detail on the plaid skirt to the left. It’s a perfect example of the care that goes into Nanette Lepore’s pieces with the princess seaming in front and back, those adorable ruffles that fall just right and glossy high-quality buttons.

5. Betsey Johnson

When you think Betsey Johnson, you probably think bustiers, crinoline, oversized rose prints and skull motifs. Which is all fun and good…but there are also styles for those of us who want to try something playful that can still go to the office. I’m so impressed with the just-subdued-enough Betsey Johnson dresses we’ve had on our site lately, particularly styles 16328 and 16329, which are covered in jewel-toned blossoms.

6. L.A. Kitty

I had never even heard of L.A. Kitty jackets before I saw them on MyShape, but I was hooked the moment I found them. These babies are seriously comfortable and figure enhancing at the same time—typically fleece or plush with cute details like peplums and waist ties. Pretty impressive for under $50. (Yep, they usually run about $40 each.)

7. Nougat

This London-based brand always seems to give their clothing a little something extra—unique beading here, rows of pin tucks there, maybe a front or back keyhole opening. In short, Nougat makes every piece special. Their clothes also have a timeless quality even though they’re not your typical basics. Their silk blouses and camisoles are so feminine without being girlish.

8. Kersh

Kersh’s cardigans and boleros typically come in a range of colors, which is helpful if you’re trying to coordinate with a dress or top. They also tend to have ribbing or shirring that’s very flattering. Aside from their sweaters, Kersh makes versatile knit dresses and tops that aren’t particularly pricey, so they’re simply a great source for wardrobe basics.

9. Trina Turk

Trina Turk is another designer who knows just how to work with women’s curves, and she also uses a lot of beautiful saturated colors. I’m pretty picky about prints and don’t wear them often, but hers always look so tasteful yet unexpected to me. I’m even tempted by her brightest pieces because they mix hues so well.

10. Mac & Jac

There’s nothing like a smart tailored jacket or coat to pull your whole look together, and Mac & Jac does a superb job of crafting lightweight outerwear that’s easy to mix and match with your wardrobe. I most often find myself attracted to their jackets, but they have a full line including pants, skirts, blouses, sweaters and dresses, all with a look that’s trend conscious but still very versatile.

Posted by Heather at MyShape