Fashion
Black-Owned Fashion Brands To Know & Shop Right Now
If you've been eyeing that Telfar bag or Pyer Moss hoodie, now’s the time to hit "purchase."
Protests are still happening across the country in the wake of a police officer killing George Floyd in Minneapolis last week. Thousands of people have taken to the streets to demand justice not only for Floyd, but for the many Black people who have lost their lives to police brutality and system racism. In addition to the protests, people are looking for other ways to support by donating to bail funds, Black Lives Matter, and other organizations fighting for racial equality.
For those who are unable to make it to the frontlines of these protests, you can still put your money where your mouth is through supporting fashion brands owned and operated by Black individuals. There is probably no easier way to show your support than by shopping. So if you've been eyeing that Telfar bag or Pyer Moss hoodie, now’s the time to hit "purchase."
Below is a list of Black-owned fashion brands, along with a few indie boutiques, to scroll through and shop, including LaQuan Smith, Phlemuns, Fe Noel, and many more.
We only include products that have been independently selected by NYLON's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
Telfar
Telfar's shopping bags have been dubbed "the Brooklyn Birkin," and with good reason. Currently, there are a few available to buy, but act quickly before they all sell out again.
Pyer Moss
Pyer Moss' Kerby Jean-Raymond has been open about his own experiences with the police, incorporating footage of police brutality against Black people during his runway show in 2015. His collections and unforgettable runway shows at New York Fashion always center around Black culture.
LaQuan Smith
New York designer LaQuan Smith boasts a large crew of celebrity fans, including Cardi B, Winnie Harlow, and Kendall Jenner.
Phlemuns
Los Angeles designer James Flemons is dedicated to making fashion diverse and accessible for all through his brand Phlemuns, and that includes Julia Fox in Uncut Gems.
Brother Vellies
Founder Aurora James maintains a commitment to traditional African design practices while making her handcrafted accessories.
Fe Noel
Fe Noel looks to travel and her Caribbean heritage to create her vibrant and colorful collections.
Christopher John Rogers
The Baton Rouge native and CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner designs opulent, dramatic, billowing pieces perfect for the red carpet.
Tia Adeola
Tia Adeola made her solo brand debut this past February at New York Fashion Week, but she already had supporters in celebrities like Gigi Hadid and SZA.
Hanifa
Hanifa's Anifa Mvuemba recently grabbed headlines thanks to her use of innovative 3D models to show her latest collection on Instagram.
Sincerely, Tommy
Based in Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy neighborhod, Sincerely, Tommy houses upcoming designers, as well as an in-house coffee bar. Add visiting to your post-quarantine to-do list.
Cushnie
Designer Carly Cushnie is now a popular name in luxury fashion. If Michelle Obama is a fan, then you know it's good.
Maki Oh
Maki Oh is the only African fashion designer to be invited to the White House. She went in 2014 at the invitation of Michelle Obama.
Maxivive
A Nigerian brand known for its minimalism and androgyny, full of bold patterns and lots of texture.
ArtistsUntold
The Black-owned brand showcases minority artists, incorporating their work on ArtistsUntold's streetwear.
Auvere
Founder, designer, and Chief Creative Officer Gina Love left her job as a real estate lawyer to start the jewelry company, which focuses on using rare 22k and 24k gold.
t.a.
Indie boutique t.a. in New York City's Meatpacking District had to postpone the opening of its flagship due to COVID-19 and pivot to entirely being an e-commerce business. Founder Telsha Anderson curates her shop with up-and-coming brands designers, like H5, Priscavera, Gauntlett Cheng, and Mozh Mozh.
Lurelly
Founder Lurell M. wanted to make luxurious clothing that is accessible to as many women as possible. All pieces are made and designed in Los Angeles.
No Sesso
No Sesso, Italian for "no sex/gender," is an LA-based brand founded in 2015 by Pierre Davis. The website is currently down, but you can shop the brand on Depop.
Zazaii
Zazaii is a Black-owned curated shop of established and up-and-coming labels with a focus on providing customers with "modern African style at an accessible price point."
Vintage Royalty
Designer Meena Osei-Kuffour looks to her Ghanian heritage and love of vintage art for the inspiration behind her handmade pieces.
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