5 Black-Owned Fashion Brands you Need in your Wardrobe, Now and Forever
Photo Credit: The Zoe Report
By: Ana Escalante
This summer marked monumental change across social and political lines as millions across the world marched for racial equality after the deaths of Geoge Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and countless others. Although Black Lives Matter movement in the United States began in Ferguson, Missouri, the movement took off in mainstream media and people truly began taking notice across the globe.
Since then, an outpouring of support has been shown towards Black-owned businesses and racial advocacy groups, and the best way to support is financially— this means buying directly from Black designers and creatives.
After the inception of the Black In Fashion Council, it’s now more apparent than ever that fashion is inherently political, and emerging designers of color are encouraging keys to a better, more stylish world.
In the words of the great Carrie Bradshaw, “I like my money right where I can see it… Hanging in my closet,” so let’s make it happen! Here is a list of black-owned fashion brands, both old and new, to incorporate into your wardrobe, now and forever.
Telfar by Telfar Clemmens
It’s not just a bag, honey, it’s Telfar!
The Black, Queer, first-generation Liberian-American designer made shockwaves this summer with his brand’s iconic shopping tote, despite being around since 2014.
With Telfar’s “Not you, for everyone,” slogan, the brand prioritizes the concept of redefining luxury and placing it directly in the hands of those who have been stereotypically denied it for years. The bag’s timeless silhouette available three different sizes with over 15 colorways provides ultimate style versatility and a more approachable price-point. Purses not your thing? Telfar also offers belts, hats and jewelry to elevate your wardrobe.
Clemmens is nowhere near at the top of his game, after winning the Vogue CFDA Fashion Fund in 2017 and having his bags sell out within seconds this summer. We can’t wait to see all the young designer has in store for the industry.
Christopher John Rodgers
If Carrie were walking among us today, she would be dressed head-to-toe in this fabulous, colorful brand.
Christopher John Rodgers has been making shockwaves in the fashion world, another recipient of the Vogue CFDA Fashion Fund in 2019. Described as one of fashion’s next big names, Roger’s flamboyant runway pieces have been seen on the hottest female celebrities, including Cardi B, Zendaya, Lizzo and Trace Ellis Ross. He’s also a favorite of former First Lady Michelle Obama.
The designers’ main goal is to spark joy through his pieces. Rogers isn’t afraid to shy away from loud neons and ostrich feathers, proving chic doesn’t always have to be tailored, black little dresses.
Riot Swim by Monti Landers
We all need the perfect bikini as part of our summer essentials, even if we’re nearing the season’s end. Meet Riot Swim, your one-stop destination for everything swimsuit, created for and by Black Women,
Founded by model Monti Landers in 2016, Riot Swim is the perfect balance of chic and playful. The young brand’s careful ruching and crisp silhouettes on its one-pieces and bikinis make it the ultimate statement swimwear for lounging around by the pool or sunbathing.
The high-waisted cut and square neckline on Riot Swim’s best-seller, the Echo, gives off a vintage vibe, taken straight from your mother’s closet. The of-the-moment Kiwi colorway brightens up the piece for the best summer selfie.
One-pieces not your thing? The Vista top and matching bottom are what asymmetrical dreams are made of.
Amina Abdul Jillil
If Barbie was an IRL model, she would definitely have a pair of hot pink Amina Abdul Jillil stilettos. Known for her bold feminine details, Jillil won Essence’s Accessory Designer of the Year in 2019, and has been on the rise ever since.
A glimpse at the brand’s Instagram and you’ll know why the internet has been silently buzzing about the label. From oversized neon bows, rhinestone studs and strappy PVC, every shoe silhouette offers something unique to the buyer. From pumps to sandals, to flats and boots, Jillil is absolutely changing the shoe game.
Oma The Label by Neumi Anekhe
Founded in 2018 By Neumi Anekhe, Oma The Label was created after noticing the jewelry industry predominantly lacked representation for women of color. The New York based brand has almost all timeless gold jewelry pieces, from chunky croissant rings to linked necklaces and bedazzled hoops, at reasonable prices. In a time where darker skinned women are left out of fashion spaces at times, Oma The Label has nearly all of it’s products modeled on various skin tones, especially darker-skinned women.
Fun fact: the brand’s ‘ZOË Earrings’ are directly inspired by Zoë Kravitz, a muse and supporter of Oma the Label and Anekhe.
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