With the migration of SF's creative class across the Bay Bridge, it was meant to be that Oakland is now emerging as a Bay Area creative center. Fashion mavens rejoice: Oakland designers are applying sustainable quality and craftsmanship to modern, utilitarian wares that are perfect for wardrobe-building. Here are three of our faves.

Big Eyes

Matt Costa has developed his namesake eyewear line with a hands-on process whose quality is easy to see: The acetate frames are constructed with dual rivets and nickel hinges, before being hand-dyed with custom colorant and fit with Carl Zeiss lenses. And with classic designs that meld function with style, Costalots has a frame for every face, from Art Deco square specs to ’50s round pinners. // Find your signature frame at FSC Barber (Mission) and online at shop.costalots.com.

(Courtesy of Costalots)

Sassy Panties

Designer Laura Schoorl was dreaming of sustainable skivvies. Her line, Pansy, now offers minimalist, organic intimates, including a selection of cute bralettes and bottoms, via an honest process that, we hope, signals the future of delicates. Each piece is crafted from organic cotton grown and milled in North Carolina; hand-dyed with non-toxic, fiber-reactive pigments; and sewn in San Leandro without a sweatshop in sight. We’re loving this season’s three whimsical new shades: natural, lilac, and rust. // Shop Pansy online at pansy.co and at General Store (Sunset), shop-generalstore.com.

(Courtesy of Pansy)

Not-So-Basics

An infatuation with flowing fabrics and clean lines sparked Ali Golden’s transition from graphic design to fashion design. Blending structure with delicate draping, Ali’s signature utilitarian silhouettes combine comfort with class. Her latest collection, designed and produced in Oakland, elevates muted neutrals and simple, versatile designs with all-natural fabrics perfect for building your summer uniform. Headed to the farmer’s market? Throw on the midi dress and grab the melange sweater in case the fog rolls in. For a girls night out, make a subtle statement in silk. // Shop at Ali Golden (Temescal Alley), aligolden.com.

 (Courtesy of Ali Golden)