Five Black-Owned Fashion Brands To Keep On Your Radar
Amplifying black culture through fashion.
Written by Shandel Walker
courtesy of Instagram @nubianskin
The spirit of the Black diaspora has continuously been tested, but through strength and unwavering faith, Black people have persevered and proved through our pain there is beauty to be found. In the face of adversity, Black people have used fashion as a form of self-expression and a creative outlet. Over the years, Black people and their unique styles have become silent innovators and trendsetters that have continuously influenced the fashion industry's top designers and models. The lack of acknowledgment has forced many to demand more inclusion and diversity in the fashion industry. As a result, Black designers are finally getting their chance to shine on the runway. Black-owned fashion brands are growing in numbers and creating much-deserved buzz. To increase awareness and keep the momentum going, we are sharing five black-owned brands that are worth keeping on your radar.
Telfar
According to The New York Times, last year was "the year of Telfar." The popular Telfar shopping bags took the world by storm in 2020, being one of the most sort after bags. The shopping bags are so popular we're confident that most colors if not all are sold out if you go on the website right now. Telfar was created in 2005 by Telfar Clemens, a New York City native who has tirelessly been an advocate for inclusivity in the fashion industry. Standing true to his motto, "It's not for you — it's for everyone." Telfar pieces are unisex, affordable, and can be worn by everyone.
Nubian Skin
Nubian Skin redefines the color "nude." Founded by Ade Hassan, who grew tired of the lack of skin-tone selections for women of color in the lingerie industry. Hassan decided to take matters into her own hands and launched Nubian Skin in 2014. Which now offers women and men of color (there is a men's collection now) four different shades of nude ranging from caramel, cinnamon, berry, and Café au Lait. Finally, lingerie made with you in mind.
Theophilio
Are you looking for "sustainable fashion with a Jamaican Soul," then Theophilio is the brand for you. Theophilio founder Edvin Thompson is a Jamaican native who has successfully blended Jamaica's vibrant culture, spirit, and natural island beauty with New York City's signature grunge. Thompson is all about amplifying the voices of the voiceless, one sustainable piece at a time.
Sergio Hudson
Remember former first lady Michelle Obama's stunning Inauguration Day suit? Well, you were feasting your eyes on a flawless Sergio Hudson piece. Sergio Hudson is all about evoking a woman's inner boss and slaying all day. Do yourself a favor and invest in a Sergio Hudson suit. You'll be sure to turn some heads.
Courtney Noelle
Feeling frustrated with the lack of options for plus-sized women, Bronx native Courtney Smith decided to launch Courtney Noelle, which dishes out pieces that are stylish, demand attention, and encourage plus-sized women to be seen. Embrace your curves with flare!
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