Mage Exiles is a book series (two right now, and possibly forever), by Melanie Rawn. Set in a matriarchal society and following three sisters: Glenin, Sarra, and Cailet, the last of the Ambrais. Ambrai the place was the center of art, culture, and magic. There are two opposing magic-using factions, the Malerissi, and the Mage Guardians. the Malerissi believe in the Great Loom, and their culture very strongly dictates the path of people's lives. Mage Guardians have a hierarchy that revolves around the Mage Captal, and seem to be kind of like magical knights. The Mage Guardians were wiped out when Auvry Feiran (The sisters' father) burned down Ambrai. First book is about a growing rebellion against covert Malerissi rule.

The book series are very richly detailed, with awesome worldbuilding, and a well-done matriarchy.