16 Black-Owned Fashion Brands To Shop This Black History Month

Fashion has played an intricate role in the Black community for years. Dating back to the 1920’s, from flapper dresses to pinstripe and zoot suits, the community has used various patterns, funky styles and unique creativity to express themselves through their favorite fabrics and threads. However, as the fashion industry evolved, diversity continued to shrink, leaving a large portion of Black designers marginalized. Only 4.8 percent of designers are Black, despite Black consumers representing approximately 20 percent of luxury fashion spending in the US market, with the number expected to rise further in the coming years. Black designers matter, and there are a plethora of Black-owned fashion brands that deserve to be celebrated.

Rooted in inclusivity, Nomads Swimwear brings a refreshing and authentic approach to swimwear. Offering sizes ranging from XS to 5X, the chic patterns encapsulate tropical paradise with bright and bold patterns. The fabric stretches for comfort and durability without sacrificing style.

No outfit is complete without a handbag to match, and that’s where ANiCE’ By Angel comes in. Made from sustainably and responsibly sourced leather, these handbags come in a variety of funky shapes, sizes and colors and offer functionality without sacrificing style.

Add class and sophistication to your style with pieces from CIAO by CC. Chose from warm shearling coats or buttery leather jackets. Pair them with a uniquely shaped dress, or corset skirts or lavender trousers. Pieces from this brand can easily add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to any outfit.

Brandon Blackwood is a staple in the handbag and accessory community. Known for his New York centric style, the designers draws inspiration from the city that never sleeps and the Black experience for his pieces. Known for his ‘End Systemic Racism’ miniature handbags or his taxi high-heels, the line offers chic and quality pieces that can elevate any closet.

Refresh your athletic wear options with clothing from ICONI. The brand focuses on inclusivity and body positivity, offering a range of flexible and stretchy leggings, bras, shorts, and tank tops to compliment both male and female figures.

Step into contemporary ready-to-wear styles with styles by Ciara Chyanne. The Tuskegee University graduate is a self-taught designer, with all of her pieces reflecting her daily inspirations of color, texture and silhouettes. Embrace your bold side with bright colors that pop and textures that embolden and empower.

Founded by NBA All-Star Stephon Marbury, these glasses help you see the light, pun intended. These sunglasses are designed with liquid crystal film technology, which help them change color or tint either manually, automatically or both. They’re ideal for anyone who is back and forth between the bright outdoors and the dull insides, or who just want to add a fashionable accessory to their outfit.

If you’re looking to spice up your date night look, Alana Eve is the place the shop. The designer offers unique and sexy ready-to-wear date night dresses, ranging from gowns to mini-dresses, corsets and cut-outs. From bold patterns made with a variety of fabrics including brocade and lace, the brand embodies bold and chic fashion.

Known for his uniquely shaped and modeled shopping handbags, Telfar has become a household name in the fashion industry. Founded by Telfar Clemens in 2005, the brand became popular within the last five years. The handbags come in a variety of show-stopping colors and various sizes, designed to be practical for everyday use. Telfar also has dabbled in the ready-to-wear world with coats, clothing and collaborations with popular brands including Ugg.

Founded by former ‘Basketball Wives’ star Draya Michele, Mint Swim offers a range of sexy and steamy swimwear. Whether you want to gently show off curves in a one-piece suit or want to bare it all in a colorful two-piece bikini, Mint Swim aims to help every woman feel their best while hitting the waves.

If you’re in need of a fresh leather handbag, look no further than DESERI. Based out of Texas, the designer, Deseri Kelley became the first Black-owned luxury handbag shop to open at the Dallas Galleria in Texas. The handbags feature smooth leather in a variety of earthy tones and hand-painted designs.

Luxury meets sleepwear with Melda Moda. Melt into comfort with soft and bouncy viscose material that has been sustainably sourced. The labels are made form recycled polyester satin, and feature bright and tropical patterns if you’re feeling bold, or warm and earthy if you’re spending the day in bed.

Adorn your hands with high-end jewelry from Lola Ade. This Black-owned brand offers both naturally grown and lab grown diamonds, in a range of cuts, shape and carats. Whether looking for the perfect engagement ring or simply looking to add some class and style to your accessories, consumers can choose between necklaces, earrings, anklets and tribestix to make a statement.

Satin meets luxury with these headwraps and headbands from Fanm Djanm. Carefully and playfully designed with geometric prints and sustainable, recycled fabric, these accessories can be used to compliment a classy, high-end outfit or can dress up your average pair of jeans while promoting individuality and creativity.

This brand has a fresh take on the modern bride. Contemporary styles include a touch of modernity to classic pieces, such as two-piece suits or long gowns that are designed to enhance silhouettes and honor the designe’r’s Haitian heritage.

Surprise yourself or your significant other with a wardrobe refresh for date nights from Ellaé Lisqué. Modern, bright, colorful and eye-popping selections include sexy cutout dresses and ruffle rompers, enough to grab any eye (or heart) when you step into the room.

No matter your style, these Black-owned fashion brands will compliment any closet.