It wasn’t always the case, but fortunately, we are now seeing an increase of black people in the fashion industry. A lot of black-owned businesses are flourishing. These brands and their designers began to get the recognition they’d always deserved. Not only in the streetwear or workwear area, which is a clichè; but in every field of the industry. A huge number of today’s fashion trends, take their inspiration from the black community; therefore the presence of black designers is crucial to proudly represent the community. A great way to show your love and support is by shopping from black-owned fashion brands. From clothes to shoes, accessories, jewelry, bags, and more, you can find it all.
Let’s get acquainted with some of the industry’s top names, some must-see brands, and their fantastic black owners!
SAVAGE X FENTY
Savage X Fenty is a lingerie brand founded by the well-known singer Rihanna in 2018. The label proposes lingerie, sleepwear, and underwear. According to Rihanna, she wanted to create something based on inclusivity (size, color…). Her purpose is to represent every woman from all over the world. She owns also a make-up brand, Fenty Beauty, created with the promise of inclusion for all women. With a huge amount of shades and colors for all skin tones.
ANDREA IYAMAH
The resort-wear and swimwear brand Andrea Iyamah makes bikinis, headscarves, breezy pants, and robes in swirly, groovy prints that scream “beachside.” The Nigerian fashion designer Andrea Dumebi Iyamah is the creative mind behind the brand. Her creations have been worn and loved by Michelle Obama, Gabrielle Union, Kate Hudson, and more.
ALALELA
Alalela is a “Slow perfumery” – Atelier de Senteurs founded by Julie Atenda, creating eco-luxury scents and home fragrances. At Alalela, they strive to create timeless, exquisite scents that go beyond mere perfumery where their fragrances are crafted in Grasse, the cradle of French luxury perfumery, ethically and sustainably sourced and produced. Each drop of their scents is the result of ancestral know-how, respectful of the environment, and rooted in history.
Alalela’s fragrances are more than just scents; they are the embodiment of craftsmanship, sustainability, and a harmonious connection with nature. Each fragrance is meticulously created using the finest ingredients sourced directly from Grasse, the world-renowned perfumery capital. Our commitment to sustainable practices ensures that every Alalela product is a celebration of slow perfumery, luxury, crafts, and nature.
NUDE BARRE
Nude Barre was founded by Erin Carpenter, who created the brand based on her own personal struggles during her dance classes. Nude Barre knows full well that “nude” doesn’t always mean the same light, peachy shade, which is why their website automatically asks users to do a quick test to find the perfect nude shade, no matter their skin tone.
TIA ADEOLA
The Nigerian-born brand owner Teni “Tia” Adeola is a lover of art and history and includes ruffles and other Renaissance elements in all her designs. Both her womenswear and menswear have elements of extravagance and softness all at once. Her designs have been worn by celebrities including Gigi Hadid, SZA, and Dua Lipa.
ANIFA MVUEMBA
Anifa Mvuemba, from Congo, is the founder of the label Hanifa. Her knit dresses and cardigans have been seen on celebrities like Bella Hadid, Zendaya, Sarah Jessica Parker, Ashley Graham, Kylie Jenner, Tracee Ellis Ross, and more. During the pandemic in 2020, she put on a fantastic 3D fashion show that went viral and increased her sales.
SAMI MIRO VINTAGE
Sami Miro Vintage was founded in 2017 and has used local deadstock and vintage fabrics from the beginning. It is an eco-conscious label as the brand owner Sami Miro is deeply concerned about environmental issuses. Alot of celebrities like Dua Lipa, Bella Hadid, Rosalia, Selena Gomez, and Megan Fox are big fans of the brand.
THE OULA COMPANY
The sustainable brand “The Oula Company” created by Erika Dalya Massaquoi, utilizes Ankara wax fabric to create dresses and skirts out of deadstock fabric. The hand-sewn statement pieces are sure to infuse joy into any warm-weather wardrobe.
FE NOEL
The designer and brand owner of the homonymous label Felicia “Fe” Noel, creates clothing with one thing in mind: Women’s rights. Her purpose is to end income inequality and she is using her fashion to do it. She wants women to know, that they have to take what was taken from them. They must not leave anything on the table anymore. Not money or even experiences. They can have it all, and they deserve it all. Her masterpiece is “The Dre$$” a strapless corset gown with a ruffled petticoat made of paper money. Created to highlight the 30% retirement income gap between men and women.
FANM MON
The designer Sophia Dermitas, is from Haiti but she is now based in Turkey. She is the mind behind the amazing Fanm Mon dresses. Sophia worked at a homeless shelter in NYC before starting her colorful and vibrant label . Fanm Mon’s lightweight embroidered dresses will take you immediately into vacation mood , but you can wear them wherever you want, brunch, party, date night and so on… In her creations you can find the haitian inspiration mixed with her passion for nature and sustainability.
OMA THE LABEL
Oma the Label brand and its gorgeous jewelry were created by New York-based fashion stylist Neumi Anekhe in 2018. She wanted to provide high-quality fashion pieces but also further diversify the imagery and representation that have dominated modern fashion. She was born in Norway from Nigerian parents, this unique blend of Scandinavian and African influences can be seen in her pieces. With bold colors and minimalist designs, Oma’s collection is great for special occasions, casual days, and stylish office ensembles. With her jewelry, any outfit is elevated!
ARCH
Arch‘s brand owner and designer is Jazmin Veney, she has an impressive background in fashion marketing for iconic and luxury brands. ARCH came to fruition in 2018 in her Harlem apartment from a desire to make space for herself in the fashion industry. This women’s footwear label, combines fun and sophistication with always on-trend designs. A lot of importance is given to the model, functionality and comfort.
There are definitely more brands owned by black women. It is important, especially for the black community to have a look and if possible to give strength and support to these women, who are definitely representing their people in the fashion industry!