From protesting to donating to signing petitions, there are many ways to support the black community and take a stand against racism and police brutality right now.
For fashion fans, shopping from black-owned brands and retailers is one key way to show solidarity. The style industry has long exploited the work of black designers and culture, yet creatives of color encounter disproportionate hurdles when it comes to funding their companies — and many have been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Below, a selection of black-owned fashion labels that are well worth your attention and dollars, many of which you’ve likely spotted on your favorite stars.
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1. Brother Vellies
Founded by Aurora James, this brand’s cult-favorite footwear is handmade by artisans around the world using traditional African design practices. Meghan Markle, Solange Knowles and Vanessa Hudgens are fans of the brand. -
2. Fenty
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-mKEsxoAJs/
In 2019, Rihanna became the first black woman to head a luxury label for LVMH. Known for its sharp-shouldered blazers, itty-bitty dresses and sculptural eyewear and jewelry, the pop mogul’s fashion house stands alongside lingerie brand Savage x Fenty and cosmetics company Fenty Beauty in her ever-growing portfolio. -
3. Pyer Moss
Designer Kerby Jean-Raymond’s collection is as much about activism and heritage as it is about beautiful clothes. Worn on the red carpet by the likes of Issa Rae, Lena Waithe and Gabrielle Union, Pyer Moss offers everything from sweats to colorful gowns.
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4. Christopher John Rogers
One of fashion’s boldest and brightest talents — literally — this Louisiana native creates colorful, voluminous looks for the likes of Tracee Ellis Ross, Lizzo and Rihanna. -
5. Telfar
Famous for his vegan leather shopper tote — dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin” and carried by Azealia Banks, Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa and more — Telfar Clemens also makes unisex tees, tanks and sweats, which his brand states are “not for you — for everyone.” -
6. Cushnie
Looking for something sleek and sexy for your next night out? Carly Cushnie, who’s dressed stars ranging from La La Anthony to Michelle Obama, has got you covered. Her specialties include slinky silk dresses and sharp suiting. -
7. LaQuan Smith
For those in search of something to show off their curves, Smith’s runway-ready designs are just the ticket. Rihanna, Beyoncé and Kim Kardashian are all fans of his work. -
8. Heron Preston
A DJ and art director as well as a designer, Preston cut his teeth working with Kanye West and Virgil Abloh. Ariana Grande, Bella Hadid and Demi Lovato have all sported one of his signatures: a turtleneck embroidered with the Russian word for “style.” -
9. Mateo New York
Zendaya, Kerry Washington and Zazie Beetz are just a few of the many stars who adore Jamaican designer Matthew Harris’ modern art-inspired sparkle. -
10. Victor Glemaud
You won’t find sexier, more statement-making knitwear than the styles by this Haitian-born talent — and Mindy Kaling, Selena Gomez and Ashley Graham agree. -
11. Maki Oh
Founded by Maki Osakwe in 2010, this label — loved by Issa Rae, Lupita Nyong’o, Solange Knowles and Michelle Obama — blends traditional African techniques with modern construction. -
12. Hanifa
Designed for “Women Without Limits,” Hanifa’s colorful clothes — like dramatic flared trousers and asymmetrical sweaters — have been spotted on Karrueche Tran, Ciara and Jennifer Hudson. -
13. Aliétte
The brainchild of celebrity stylist Jason Rembert, who dresses Issa Rae, Rita Ora and Zayn Malik, Alietté’s red carpet creations are already a Hollywood hit. -
14. Romeo Hunte
Saweetie, Laverne Cox and Zendaya are just a few of the stars who gravitate toward this Brooklyn native’s designs, particularly his fan-favorite outerwear. -
15. Fe Noel
Marked by vibrant colors and bold prints, Felisha “Fe” Noel’s creations are heavily influenced by her Grenadian heritage and loved by Gabrielle Union, Beyoncé and Jordin Sparks. -
16. Duro Olowu
Worn by Thandie Newton, Tracee Ellis Ross and Michelle Obama, this Nigerian-born British talent’s designs incorporate patterns and fabrics inspired by his international background. -
17. Tia Adeola
Hello, ruffles! Inspired by Renaissance art, New School graduate Teni “Tia” Adeola’s frilly fashions are a favorite of stars like SZA, Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid. -
18. Sami Miro Vintage
This eco-conscious brand adored by Jordyn Woods, Bella Hadid and Kendall and Kylie Jenner transforms vintage garments into cool new styles. -
19. Phlemuns
James Flemons’ genderless, denim-heavy designs are a favorite of pop phenoms like Lil Nas X, Lizzo, Solange Knowles and Miley Cyrus. -
20. Studio 189
Co-founded by Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah, this award-winning label’s clothes are made in African artisans using traditional craftsmanship techniques. -
21. Coco and Breezy
Designed by twins Corianna and Brianna Dotson, Coco and Breezy’s statement-making sunglasses have been sported by Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Lady Gaga and even the late, great Prince. -
22. Melissa Simone
Kylie Jenner, Bella Hadid and Sofia Richie have all posted smoldering snaps in this LA designer’s ’90s-inspired swimwear.
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23. Kenneth Ize
Naomi Campbell and Yara Shahidi are fans of this LVMH Prize finalist, who works with artisans and design groups in Nigeria to create his colorful, hand-crafted clothing. -
24. JBD Apparel
Designer Saudia Islam’s sexy knitwear has been spotted on stars like Kim Kardashian and Dua Lipa. -
25. TLZ L'Femme
Chloe x Halle, Rosalia, Cardi B, Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid have all made major statements in Aazhia Rhy’s eye-catching leather and mesh creations. -
26. Sammy B
Founded by “Project Runway” alum Samantha Black, this label’s feminine yet eclectic wares are a hit with celebs like Gabrielle Union, Keke Palmer and Beyoncé. -
27. Stella Jean
Can you say “Beyoncé?” The pop superstar seemingly can’t get enough of this Italian-Haitian designer’s bold, colorful clothing, which combines classic tailoring with cultural references. -
28. Lemlem
Founded by supermodel Liya Kebede, this artisan-driven collection of women’s, men’s, children’s and home goods is made entirely in Africa. Meaning “to bloom” or “to flourish” in the Ethiopian language of Amharic, Lemlem is committed to elevating artisanship and expanding production and jobs across the continent. -
29. Mint Swim
Model and actress Draya Michele’s sexy swimwear line is created and designed with all shapes and sizes in mind. Selena Gomez is a fan, as are the whole Kardashian-Jenner crew. -
30. We Dream in Colour
Kerry Washington and Katy Perry have both worn designer Jade Gedeon’s statement-making jewelry. Based out of Salem, Massachusetts, all pieces are handmade by a small team of women. -
31. Autumn Adeigbo
Worn by boldfaced names like Kerry Washington, Gabrielle Union and Busy Philipps, this Nigerian-American designer’s colorful (and sustainable) wares are made in the US by female-owned production facilities.