Our society is in turmoil right now, and as well it should be. I, like many others, have found myself feeling confused and heartbroken, but also empowered to make a change.
To all my fellow shopaholics, there is one easy way we can support the black community. Just by simply doing what we do best: shopping!
There are so many ways to get involved during this time. Making a conscious effort to shop black owned businesses won’t solve everything but is definitely a step in the right direction.
So, I’ve been doing some research into some black owned businesses that could really use our support right now. I’ve laid out 9 of my favorites and encourage you all to take a look. I have no doubt you’ll find something you love; these shops are amazing!
“Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world,” – Dolores Huerta.
Lemlem is a clothing brand founded by Liya Kebede. “Each lemlem piece begins in the hands of one of our exceptional artisans,” artisans working and living in Kebede’s homeland, Ethiopia. All of Kebede’s designs feature traditional African motifs. I especially loved her swimwear line.
Lola triangle top, Semira men’s shirt
This handmade jewelry line is full of simple but sexy pieces that immediately draw you in. All pieces are made in LA and feature the on-trend designs that we are all loving right now (chain link necklaces, mid size hoops, name necklaces, you get this gist!).
Shade baby hoops, Kelli necklace
Briogeo is a hair care brand that I have loved for years now, but never knew was black owned! No only do Briogeo products do what they say they will, they are 100% cruelty-free and formulated with no sulfates, silicones, parabens, phthalates, DEA or artificial dyes (basically everything we don’t want in our hair care!) My favorites? The Don’t Despair, Repair! Mask and the Superfood Green Apple and Kale shampoo and conditioner.
Estelle’s glassware is sure to brighten up even the sunniest tablescape. Whether you’re planning on hosting a classy boulevard brunch or looking for the perfect gift, this colored glassware is sure to do the trick.
Can you say fabulous? This luxury accessories brand celebrates cultural histories in their uber fashionable designs. Step aside Gucci, Brother Vellies’s mules are taking over.
Stell mule, Grandma Stell mule
Summertime is here again and with that comes shaving. Lots of shaving. Which no one likes. Oui the People is a different story. From rose gold razors to a luminous body gloss filled with the best ingredients, Oui the People strives to make the shaving process a luxurious one. I haven’t had the chance to try anything yet but from the constantly sold out site and hundreds of 5 star reviews, I’m guessing they know what they’re doing!
I’d be lying if I said thick rimmed, structured hats weren’t all the rage these days. And I doubt many people do it better than Monrowe. You can tell from their website that they take great pride in crafting their hats, each a little piece of art within itself. Each Monrowe hat is steamed, blocked, molded, heated and then cut to your head size. A hat made just for me? I think yes.
Founder Kristen Noel Crawley fell in love with skincare masks in Tokyo, but discovered there were no natural options available. So, naturally, she created her own! Her collagen and retinol infused masks are sure to have everyone glowing!
This clothing and lifestyle brand has been making big steps for a while. Not only are the designs stunning, the cause and story behind the brand shines even brighter. A.Au encourages women to embrace their history and culture. Founder Asiyami Gold is doing just that with her brand. Each piece is sourced and made in Nigeria, Gold’s homeland. Plus, 10% of every sale goes towards building an education fund for Abua youths. I don’t know about you but I am HERE FOR IT.
