Story/ Vivian Arthur
Photos/ Josh Ortiz
Amidst the pandemic, founders Danielle Tortorello and Jennifer Stano noticed their social media success and decided to channel their fashion sense into a brand of their own: ALGND. Recognizing an opportunity to merge Danielle’s preference for androgynous cuts with a fit tailored to women’s bodies and Jen’s knack for elevating designs, they aimed to fill a gap in the market. Their collaboration resulted in ALGND, a line offering versatile, high-quality clothing that celebrates individuality through feminine androgynous styles.
ALGND’s mission is rooted in values of authenticity, inclusivity, and quality, reflecting the duo’s personal style philosophies. They prioritize hands-on involvement in every production stage, from fabric selection to fit. Each piece they create is a seamless blend of style and comfort, designed to empower wearers to feel confident and unique. Every design is tested by the founders themselves, ensuring that ALGND pieces live up to the brand’s high standards and commitment to wearable style.
A key aspect of ALGND’s identity is its timeless approach to design, steering away from fleeting trends in favor of versatile, classic pieces that customers can mix and match. This approach isn’t just practical; it embodies a sophisticated aesthetic that gives women flexibility in styling. From the no-front-seam leggings to the muscle sweatshirts with raw hems, ALGND’s pieces are thoughtfully crafted, enabling wearers to express their individuality while embracing elegance in everyday wear.
Reflecting on their journey, they emphasize the importance of resilience and self-belief for aspiring female entrepreneurs. For Danielle and Jennifer, persistence and the courage to take calculated risks are vital in the competitive fashion industry. With ambitious goals to expand ALGND’s size range and make its designs accessible in high-end department stores and online boutiques, the founders aim to deepen their community engagement. Through collaborations, pop-up events, and possible retail partnerships with brands like Neiman Marcus and Revolve, ALGND is poised to become a leader in blending functional fashion with personal style, promoting confidence and conscious choices.
Their message to other female entrepreneurs, “our biggest advice is to prioritize self-belief and to trust your intuition. Building a business, especially in fashion and lifestyle, can feel daunting, but waiting for the “perfect” time isn’t necessary—take that first step and embrace learning along the way. Staying organized and committed to your vision, even during challenges, is key. Surround yourself with supportive people, and remember, it’s okay to seek help when needed. Consistent effort and confidence in your journey will guide you through any obstacles.” By crafting durable, timeless designs that customers can mix and match, ALGND encourages style choices that prioritize quality over fast fashion trends.
