The influence of African American style on fashion is as undeniable as every other facet of culture. Black-owned fashion businesses have not only thrived but have also dominated, from streetwear and activewear to luxury fashion and beyond.
Even so, it’s more important than ever for us to embrace and support these brands. There is no trend anywhere on earth that the capitalist machine will not appropriate and brutally exploit, and that goes double — triple — for anything Black. The only way to safeguard Black trends and culture from being absorbed into corporate behemoths is by making more deliberate and conscientious choices with our spending.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best of the best in Black fashion brands that we can buy from online. These brands are not only visionary culture goliaths; they also effectively challenge racial boundaries and promote inclusivity. The next time you consider buying that funny tshirt from Walmart, stop and ask yourself: don’t you and indeed even justice itself deserve a Black brand name product instead?
PS: when it comes to online shopping, a reliable high-speed internet connection is absolutely essential. Nobody wants to deal with frustrating lag. Just as we choose clothing that suits our style, selecting an internet service provider that aligns with our needs is equally important. We recommend Xfinity. With a long-standing track record of delivering consistent, high-quality internet services, Xfinity understands the pivotal role the internet plays in our lives. Whether you’re a business owner or a regular shopper, Xfinity offers a range of plans and services tailored to your specific requirements. For the best plans and services that suit your needs, reach out to Xfinity’s customer service team.
With that said, let’s find out which 10 Black-owned fashion brands we most recommend shopping online from. Starting with the obvious first choice:
Fenty Beauty by Rihanna
Rihanna has transcended the boundaries of artistic expression and everyone’s heard of her new beauty venture. Because Fenty Beauty is more than just a makeup line; it’s a movement. Rihanna’s vision is rooted in the belief that beauty should not be confined by traditional norms, but rather celebrated in all its diverse forms. Her range of products, spanning a wide spectrum of shades and formulas, is designed to cater to every skin type and tone. It’s an embodiment of empowerment for people of all backgrounds, offering a chance for everyone to feel confident and beautiful.
When you purchase Fenty Beauty products online, you are supporting the philosophy of a Black-owned company that believes that everyone is beautiful, regardless of skin tone.
Brother Vellies
Brother Vellies’ creator, Aurora James, has brought new life to the fashion industry by emphasizing artisanship, sustainability, and African-inspired design. The brand offers handcrafted, fashionable, and socially conscious accessories and footwear.
When you shop at Brother Vellies, you are supporting a company that upholds ethical labor standards and honors the rich cultural legacy of Africa.
Telfar
Founded by Liberian-American designer Telfar Clemens in 2005, the brand has become known for its unisex and gender-neutral designs that challenge traditional norms and celebrate diversity. Telfar’s iconic “Shopping Bag” design, often referred to as the “Bushwick Birkin,” has become a symbol of accessible luxury and is highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts.
The Folklore
Amira Rasul’s The Folklore celebrates the rich tapestry of African creativity by offering a curated selection of the best of contemporary African fashion and lifestyle products. The brand goes beyond mere fashion, as it acts as a bridge between the African creative community and the rest of the world, aiming to foster a deeper appreciation of the continent’s artistic talents.
By curating and promoting these unique African products, The Folklore empowers Black artists and designers, enabling them to reach a global audience and gain the recognition they deserve.
Christopher John Rogers
We don’t need to sell you on it. Even fashion-forward celebrities and icons like Michelle Obama and Zendaya have embraced Christopher John Rogers’ bold and colorful creations. His label is an embodiment of his bold design philosophy that encourages people to embrace their individuality.
Christopher John Rogers continues to leave a lasting impact on the fashion world, inspiring a new generation of fashion enthusiasts to embrace their authenticity and creativity in their personal style choices.
Hanifa
Anifa Mvuemba, the creative genius behind Hanifa, has captivated the fashion world with her unique approach to design. What sets Hanifa apart is seamless integration of technology and sustainability.
Mvuemba has gained international acclaim for her pioneering use of 3D runway shows, redefining the traditional fashion showcase by using cutting-edge technology to bring her designs to life. These virtual runway presentations not only offer a mesmerizing visual experience but also represent a significant step toward reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. Hanifa’s commitment to eco-friendly materials and practices underscores the brand’s dedication to a more sustainable future.
When you shop at Hanifa, you’re not only investing in futuristic and eye-catching clothing, but also the earth itself.
Samaria Leah
Founded by the talented fashion designer and businesswoman Samaria Leah, this brand is celebrated for its unique and vibrant approach to clothing. Samaria Leah’s designs breathe fresh air into the fashion scene, offering a distinctive take on streetwear that stands out in a crowd. The brand’s attention to detail is impeccable, ensuring that each piece is crafted with precision.
Samaria Leah not only gives your wardrobe a little something extra that enhances your individuality, but it also values authenticity and inventiveness.
Pyer Moss
Curated by the visionary designer Kerby Jean-Raymond, Pyer Moss exemplifies the transformative power of fashion as a catalyst for social change. The brand manages to seamlessly interweave high fashion, activism, and artistic expression, redefining the industry’s traditional boundaries.
The brand’s thought-provoking creations consistently challenge conventional norms, igniting critical conversations while making waves in the industry. Beyond aesthetics, shopping from Pyer Moss signifies an active commitment to the pursuit of racial equality and social advancement. And just looking good — also important.
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