There are so many ways to be an ally to the Black community, from calling your local officials and demanding change to donating to a Black Lives Matter cause. But another great way to show love is by shopping the amazing Black-owned fashion brands below. Whether they focus on sleek ready-to-wear, straight-up high-fashion gowns, or streetwear, designers of fashion brands like Cushnie, Laquan Smith, and Telfar truly take creativity and art to a new level.
Don’t forget about accessory labels, either, like one-of-a-kind shoe and leather brand Brother Vellies or jewelry company Mateo. They also deserve your attention (365 days a year, btw, not just during a national outcry or on #BlackoutDay 2020) for their unique takes on classic silhouettes. You’ll find them all below. Oh, and for more than 100 bomb Black-owned beauty brands or 20 Black influencers to follow on IG, head right this way.
1
Sai Sankoh
Clothes? More like art. That’s how every creation from Sai Sankoh looks, from the over-the-top ruffles to the head-turning prints.
Website: saisankoh.com
2
Lionne
Hello, gorgeous miniskirt of my dreams. Keep Lionne bookmarked for whenever you’re in need of something fun and flirty.
Website: lionneclothing.com
3
Lisa Folawiyo
Traditional Ankara gets a modern update with gorgeous silhouettes like slip dresses and unexpected cutouts.
Website: lisafolawiyo.com
4
A.Au
Do not let the summer go by without getting a dreamy dress from A.Au. You’ll also find a divine range of tops and bottoms that’ll score you major compliments.
Website: aaushop.com
5
Fanmmon
You can try, but it’ll be hard to find embroidered designs that are prettier than Fanmmon’s creations. I guess that’s why its dresses like this one sold out in 30 minutes.
Website: fanmmon.com
6
Sika
You’ll find everything your closet needs in Sika’s store, from puffer jackets to headbands. The best part: The fabrics used to create every single item are sourced in Ghana.
Website: sikadesigns.co.uk
7
Sunlight Muse
Upgrade your swimwear situation with a bikini that’s anchored with upcycled jelly straps. If you have a mini me, you two can go all matchy-matchy with a design from the girls line.
Website: sunglightmuse.com
8
Milano Di Rouge
If matching with bae is more your thing, Milano Di Rouge has a few unisex pieces that are *chef’s kiss* perfection.
Website: shop.milanodirouge.com
9
Salone Monet
Keke’s nude heels are spot-on, thanks to Salone Monet’s inclusive designs. Oh, and Beyoncé’s a fan too.
Website: salonemonet.com
10
JeBlanc
Nope, you haven’t seen statement jewels until you’ve checked out JeBlanc’s website. The body chains are unbelievably gorge and the earrings will make a pair of jeans and a white T-shirt look like couture.
Website: jeblanc.com
11
Thrilling
This site curates pieces from vintage stores all across the U.S., so if you want something truly different that no one else has, you’ll want to check it out. You’ll be supporting a small business while being sustainable at the same time.
Website: shopthrilling.com
12
Shades of Shades
Founded by Marsha Douglas-Sydnor, this eyewear company has 14 shades of neutral so that everyone can find a pair of sunnies that matches their skin tone.
Website: shades-of-shades.com
13
Chelsea Bravo
Known for her graphic lines and contemporary aesthetic, designer Chelsea Bravo makes simple yet bold pieces that are made to order, so there’s no additional waste.
Website: chelseabravo.com
14
House of Aama
Founded by mother-daughter design duo Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka, House of Aama has pieces that look like they come from a different era, like its pretty ’50s-style halter tops or Victorian-esque pussybow dresses.
Website: houseofaama.com
15
Galerie.LA
Celebrity stylist Dechel McKillian created this retail space in Los Angeles that curates a variety of sustainable brands—but obviously, you don’t have to be in Cali to shop from the store thanks to its amazing online selection.
Website: galerie.la
16
Shekudo
This handcrafted shoe and accessories brand is made by artisans in Lagos, Nigeria, and most of the raw materials are locally sourced, like the recycled insoles, cotton, and leather. These patchwork babies are absolutely stunning.
Website: shekudo.com
17
Asata Maisé
This designer transforms vintage fabrics into unique pieces that are made to be photographed. I mean, this whole slideshow of looks is A-R-T. Of course, being a one-person business can be overwhelming, so if you have the means, you can donate to Asata’s GoFundMe, which will provide her with equipment to keep up with demand.
Website: asatamaise.com
18
Míe
If dreamy, flowy dresses are up your alley, you definitely want to give this brand a follow. All the pretty pieces, including this stunning puff-sleeve red number, are made by local seamstresses and artisans in Lagos, Nigeria, where it’s based.
Website: mie.ng
19
JBD Apparel
Kim Kardashian recently gave this brand a shout-out, and it’s easy to see why she’s a fan of these body-hugging knit sets. All the pieces are handmade to order.
Website: jbdapparel.com
20
Phlemuns
Another celeb fave is this gender-neutral brand designed by James Flemons and based out in Los Angeles. Solange Knowles, Lizzo, Billie Eilish, Clairo, Lil Nas X, Miley Cyrus, and Bella Hadid have all worn its designs.
Website: phlemuns.com
21
Riot Swim
Looking for a truly standout swimwear piece to add to your summer wardrobe? Check out this label designed by Monti Landers featuring minimalistic silhouettes and shades that blend in seamlessly with darker skin tones.
Website: riotswim.com
22
Come Back as a Flower
Specializing in hand-dyed garments, the pieces are ethically made using 100 percent recycled cotton. The brand also does drops of cool vintage tees, and stars like A$AP Rocky and Big Sean have worn its clothes.
Website: cbaaf.org
23
Humans Before Handles
This jewelry label has some of the cutest accessories for summer (eyeing these seashell ones, wow), and most impressive is the fact that everything is under $50.
Website: humansbeforehandles.com
24
LaQuan Smith
Here’s a real celeb fave (Rihanna, Beyoncé, and sooo many more have worn his pieces). Go to LaQuan Smith for any of your glam/sexy outfit needs, please! This skin-baring crochet halter is just the tip of the iceberg.
Website: laquansmith.com
26
Cushnie
Oh, nothing, just some truly luxe and stunning ready-to-wear options for ya. Designer Carly Cushnie’s sleek styles have been worn by the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Ashley Graham, and Lupita Nyong’o, btw.
Website: cushnie.com
27
Jade Swim
Need a swimsuit? You’re going to want one of these pretty, minimal designs by former fashion editor and stylist Brittany Kozerski.
Website: jadeswim.com
28
Christopher John Rogers
The 26-year-old designer from Louisiana was one of the hottest tickets at New York Fashion Week in February 2020, and high-profile ladies like Michelle Obama and Cardi B. have worn his unique, colorful pieces. Find his clothing exclusively at Net-a-Porter online.
Website: christopherjohnrogers.com
29
Mateo New York
Matthew Harris of Mateo New York is a self-taught jewelry designer hailing from Montego Bay, Jamaica, and living in NYC. Shop here for beautifully minimal 14k-gold fine jewelry.
Website: mateonewyork.com
31
Fenty
Okay, you know we cannot publish this list without Rihanna’s over-the-top line of head-turning accessories and ready-to-wear items. A moment for these amazing earrings, please.
Website: fenty.com
32
Pyer Moss
Founded by designer Kerby Jean-Raymond in 2013, Pyer Moss uses its platform for social change, storytelling, and activism as well as art and design. For shopping, come for the bright, matching suits, glam, and pleated gowns and stay for comfy sweats and jeans.
Website: pyermoss.com
33
Kenneth Ize
If mixed patterns and prints are your thing, then you absolutely need to know about Kenneth Ize, whose colorful menswear-inspired pieces have some of the prettiest tailoring we’ve ever seen.
Website: kennethize.net
34
Lemlem
Founded in 2007 by supermodel, actress, and designer Liya Kebede, Lemlem is a collection of clothing and home goods made exclusively by artisans in Africa.
Website: lemlem.com
35
Victor Glemaud
Two words: Knit. Everything. Pretty much need to update every piece in my closet to sweater material thanks to Victor Glemaud’s chic designs.
Website: glemaud.com
36
Vavvoune
Just some totally original purses (and other leather accessories) that will get you tons of compliments. Designer Valerie Blaise is self-taught, by the way.
Website: vavvoune.com
37
Khiry
The luxury jewelry label started by Jameel Mohammed is known for smooth, asymmetrical earrings, rings, and bracelets made to stand out.
Website: khiry.com
39
TLZ L’Femme
Find insanely cool monochromatic looks from designer Aazhia Rhy. Also: Don’t mind me while I set up my entire room to look like this photo shoot.
Website: tlzlf.com
40
Tier NYC
Do what you want, of course, but also consider copying Winnie Harlow by wearing a trendy eco-conscious sweatsuit by designers Nigeria Ealey, Esaïe Jean-Simon, and Victor James’s surprisingly affordable label Tier NYC.
Website: shoptier.nyc
41
Love, Vera
An inclusive lingerie company—launched in 2018 by Vera Moore and Nate Johnson—with plenty of sexy pieces in a range of sizes? Sign us up.
Website: lovevera.com
44
Ashya
Belt bags, crossbody bags, cool passport holders, and prints are what you’ll discover from cofounders Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece.
Website: ashya.co
45
Fe Noel
Beautiful robes, swimsuits, and ready-to-wear from designer Fe Noel will literally make your life a happier place. Gabrielle Union’s also a fan, btw.
Website: fenoel.com
46
Andrea Iyamah
There’s quite literally something for everyone (seriously, even brides!) from designer Andrea Iyamah’s stunningly colorful collections. Don’t mind me, just adding this ruffled bikini to cart in 3, 2, 1….
Website: andreaiyamah.com
48
Muehleder
Pretty much neoprene everything and super chic, pieces by designer Larissa Muehleder have been worn by Zendaya, Normani, and Issa Rae.
Website: muehleder.com
49
Petit Kouraj
These summer-approved woven bags are stunning with their fringe, bright colors, and shell details. Nasrin Jean-Baptiste, a fashion stylist, started the Brooklyn-based brand, and the gorgeous styles are handmade in Haiti.
Website: petitkouraj.com
50
Aliétte
Stylist turned designer Jason Rembert’s first runway show for his label was in February 2019, and a little more than a year later, celebrities like Issa Rae, Taraji P. Henson, Tiffany Haddish, and Cardi B have become big fans of his designs. Just look at the cute insect prints here!
Website: TBA (but you can still look at the latest collection on Moda Operandi)
51
Stella Jean
Stella Jean is recognized as Italy’s first Black fashion designer (she is both Italian and Haitian), and her creations represent the intersection of those two cultures. She often uses bright colors, mixes patterns, and adds a tropical flair to her pieces. This off-the-shoulder dress, for instance, is definitely made to wear on vacation.
Website: stellajean.it
52
Nubian Skin
Founded by Ade Hassan, the brand offers lingerie, hosiery, and even swimwear in a range of darker skin tones so Black and brown women can wear a look that blends in seamlessly with their unique shade.
Website: nubianskin.com
53
Nude Barre
Another hosiery company focusing on diverse shades is Nude Barre. The label was created by Erin Carpenter, a professional dancer who struggled to find tights and undergarments that matched her skin tone. So naturally, she launched her own company to fix it!
Website: nudebarre.com
54
Romeo Hunte
Michelle Obama, Zendaya, Beyoncé, and Keke Palmer have all worn Hunte’s designs. Saweetie also wore a full look during Milan Fashion Week, seen here. His outerwear definitely makes a statement, and he’s known for using the buffalo-check pattern in many of his clothes.
Website: romeohunte.com
55
Harwell Godfrey
These bold, sparkly pieces are from designer Lauren Harwell Godfrey and inspired by ancient textiles and patterns. The jewelry often features stones and gems in bright rainbow colors.
Website: harwellgodfrey.com
56
Coco and Breezy
This eyewear label was started by twins Corianna and Brianna Dotson. They design sunglasses and optical glasses in fun shapes and color combinations, so your eyewear will *really* pop.
Website: cocoandbreezy.com
57
Wales Bonner
Launched in 2014 by Grace Wales Bonner, the label started as a menswear brand and later expanded into womenswear. The clothing is inspired by European and African history, and the tailoring is basically PERFECTION.
Website: walesbonner.net
58
Sindiso Khumalo
Sindiso hand-makes her textile patterns with techniques like watercolor and collage, and she focuses on sustainability. The vivid colors and detailed prints come together to make breathtaking designs that also draw from her Zulu and Ndebele heritage.
Website: sindisokhumalo.com
59
Diarrablu
Founded by Diarra Bousso, the label uses mathematical equations and algorithms to make its graphic prints. The items—jumpsuits, caftans, tunics, dresses, pants, swimsuits, and more—are made in Senegal with a focus on sustainable practices.
Website: diarrablu.com
60
Daily Paper
Three childhood friends, Jefferson Osei, Abderrahmane Trabsini, and Hussein Suleiman, founded this buzzy Amsterdam-based brand. From its tie-dye pieces to its structured, oversize blazers, there’s a definite streetwear vibe, but it also has low-key items like sweats and T-shirts.
Website: dailypaperclothing.com
61
Martine Rose
The Jamaican-British designer stared her namesake label in 2007, and although she focuses on menswear, the majority of pieces—e.g., denim jackets, T-shirts, hoodies—are unisex.
Website: martine-rose.com
62
Lisou
You read the caption! This London-based label is a celeb fave for its whimsical aesthetic and sleek clothing. Head designer Rene Macdonald grew up in Tanzania, and the statement prints and color palettes are influenced by her African travels.
Website: lisou.co.uk
63
Tsemaye Binitie
Nigerian designer Tsemaye (pronounced Shey-mah-yeh) specializes in contemporary pieces, like this beautiful jacquard boiler jumpsuit. He worked for Stella McCartney until he launched his eponymous label in 2009.
Website: tsemayebinitie.com
Alexis Bennett
Alexis Bennett is the Shopping Editor at Cosmopolitan.
Lauren Adhav
Associate Fashion Editor
I’m Cosmopolitan’s Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best.
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