Black Owned Businesses to Support Today, Tomorrow, and Forever

The wrongful murder of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis has swept the nation with grief, sorrow, and anger. It has opened so many people’s eyes, including my own, to the vast injustice that occurs everyday in the country due to racism. There are so many ways to support the movement of Black Lives Matter and the struggle against police brutality. The Cut has been one of my favorite news outlets at the moment, as they are constantly supplying readers with ways to support, as well as educational pieces like: What It Feels Like to Be Shot by a Rubber Bullet, and What to Do If You’re Exposed to Tear Gas. It is definitely something to check out if you are looking into educating yourself further (which you should want to be doing), not only about the movement but about the protests. Black people have been held down and oppressed in the country since its birth, and racism has infiltrated every industry, including fashion. Business of Fashion of released an article depicting and explaining why Fashion Is Part of the Race Problem, and it worth a read whether or not you have seen or noticed this issue in our industry. It is time to step up, and supporting black owned businesses is just one way you can help, so here are some of our favorites and ones we will be supporting today, tomorrow, and forever.

Míe

This lifestyle brand not only creates beautiful designs inspired by resort wear with sophistication in mind, they consciously use natural and biodegradable fabrics. As they are locally made in Lagos, Nigeria, Míe created their business with sustainability not only in mind, but as a cornerstone of their brand.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Míe

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OMA

OMA

“At the corner of sexy and sweet,” seems to be Oma’s mantra, and it hit the nail on the head. Their body suits take a much more modern approach to everyday designs, with inspiring necklines and cuts. Not only will one of their bodysuits or tops make you look at your wardrobe through a different lens, their jewelry collection is launching this Saturday, and you can get a sneak peak now.

The folklore

This online concept store creates a platform for U.S. and international shoppers to easily access the top emerging fashion brands from Africa and the diaspora. They do not only look for sustainability, but also creating exclusivity by having limited stock of their curated items.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FOLKLORE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF elia vintage

elia vintage

Fall in love with vintage all over again. Elia Vintage is flowing in new exclusive vintage pieces that none of your friends will be able to find. With minimalistic linens and silks, take your next meeting or night out to the next level with these seemingly one of a kind jackets, sets, and dresses.

brother vellies

Yin Yang Boots. Are you kidding? Seeing those should make you intrigued enough. Wanting to maintain African designs and techniques, while also creating artisan jobs, Brother Vellies cultivates timeless designs from all around the world, all while continuing the effort of sustainability. Whether it is vegetable-tanned leathers, floral dyed feathers, or soling from recycled tires, their sustainability and eye catching designs will make you want more and more.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF brother vellies

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HANIFA

HANIFA

This ready-to-wear line is one that will stay in your closet forever. Advertised for “Women Without Limits,” and Hanifa does just that. By creating bold pieces that will make the rest of your wardrobe shine, Hanifa is not only chic, but size inclusive as well. They strive to “cater to the natural curves of a woman's physique,” looking to the modern woman who doesn't follow the rules. Additionally, due to COVID-19, Hanifa created a virtual experience with 3D models for her most recent presentation: read more on it here.

kai collective

Kai creates luxury items at an affordable cost. Founded by fashion and travel blogger in 2016, Fisayo Longe had a vision for her brand to become diverse in every sense of the word: “multi-dimensional women who embrace their feminity in all it’s various forms.” While making a conscious effort to meet and work with ethical manufacturers, Longe has molded Kai around women empowerment, feeling good not only in your skin but in your clothes as well.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF kai collective

sincerely, tommy

With an in-house coffee bar in their shop in Brooklyn, Sincerely, Tommy was created to showcase emerging brands in both women wear and lifestyle. Minimalistic at its core, Sincerely, Tommy curates original designs from brands and creators you may have never heard of otherwise. Although the shoes may be my favorite, they are not limited to footwear, whether it may be dresses, tops, or outerwear, there is truly something for everyone.