self-expression
(2)
Doji
Doji is a New York-based AI fashion startup building an app that turns a handful of selfies into a photo-realistic personal avatar, then lets people try on real clothing from anywhere on the web. Founded in 2024 by Dorian Dargan and Jim Winkens - the name is a mash-up of their first names - Doji uses its own diffusion models to make virtual try-ons feel less like a gimmick and more like a fun, social way to shop. The company raised a $14M seed round led by Thrive Capital with participation from Seven Seven Six in May 2025, days after launching on the App Store in more than 80 countries.
Studs
Studs is a New York-based ear piercing and earrings brand that pairs licensed, needle-based piercing studios with a large e-commerce and in-store catalog of flatback studs, hoops, huggies and clickers. Founded in 2019 by Anna Harman and Lisa Bubbers, the company coined the idea of 'Earscaping' - curating a personalized stack of piercings and jewelry - and positions itself as a modern, hygienic alternative to mall piercing-gun kiosks and tattoo-shop counters. It operates a fleet of profitable studios across the U.S. alongside a direct-to-consumer online store.