Written by Peter Brooker in Brands on the 3rd July 2015

As the manager of an independent fashion store, I'm always keen to support independent labels, put some wind in the sails of the pirate ships. So I chanced across the independent catalogue on the ASOS website and requested some samples from the ones that caught my eye. It's always cool to be the first in the know about stuff, whether it’s a new fashion label, an upcoming band, or just knowing your wife is having an affair with Ian from accounts. So here are the top five independent British brands that are making the most waves on ASOS Marketplace.

Dark Paradise

If you're into your vintage clothing then there is also a good selection from a brand called Dark Paradise. They sent through a couple of samples that were dripping with retro. An old Adidas polo was especially a head turner and they dip their toe in bags, sunglasses, snapback caps and other accessories. Their garments are all reasonably priced and something from Dark Paradise will certainly add a bit of spice to your wardrobe.

Guilty Edge

Guilty Edge, created by two brothers from the south coast, have created bespoke garments that provides an alternative for the modern man. There is a dusting of oriental influence and there is a wide selection of designs and tailored fits to choose from. All their garments are made from 100% cotton and are very breathable. The main feedback I get from customers is that the fabric is so light - it would be perfect attire for warm holidays or even for the gym. They are very responsive on email so it makes sense that they pride themselves on customer service. Good guys, worth a look.

Strand Clothing

Strand Clothing is based out of the Midlands and their innovative designs have influences of retro gaming, Japan, Sci-Fi and evil robots. I found their samples to be quite fitted although they look a little loose on their website. The quality is good with sturdy crew neck collars. I found their website easy to navigate around too. With a retro feel, they certainly have quite a wide demographic. My younger clientele like the funky loud graphics, and the radio 2 listeners also have a nostalgic appreciation.

Hawk Apparel

From the mind of Mia Hawk, who is just a big ball of talent. Her designs are bold, prominent and are all made in house. Their garments combine striking graphics with playful humour. The Sausage Dog tee in particular had people stopping and pointing when I had it on display last week. She is a one woman band and can be found every Sunday trading at the Backyard Market in Brick Lane. Check out her collection, and check her out too, she's cute.

Urban Species

Finally, a brand dedicated to the geek in us. Affordable fan-dome t-shirts and hoodies with themes raging from WWE Wrestling, Star Wars, to Transformers and comic book super heroes. Urban Species cover womenswear also, so you and your hot geeky girlfriend can have his and hers R2D2 tee's. The brand is pretty on the nose with its target audience, but if you're looking for a cool inexpensive tee for comic-con or for when you go see the new Star Wars film this winter, then look no further.

We feature British brands Hawk Apparel, Guilty Edge, Strand Clothing, Dark Paradise, Urban Species in our guide to the top independent brands on ASOS Marketplace.