Remember me
Black History Month has well and truly arrived, bringing with it celebrations of culture, reflections of the past and hopes for the future. Year after year, February is a time of joy for Black people across the United States. The month is all about supporting and uplifting those you’re in community with, and what better way to support than a little bit of shopping?
Black designers have been setting the tone in fashion for decades, spearheading sartorial innovation, shifting the needle when it comes to streetwear and influencing the masses. Though we’ve come a long way from the days of Willi Smith and Dapper Dan running the show, that overwhelming cultural influence hasn’t died down since.
There are more Black designers than ever before, creating their own little worlds in the form of clothing, footwear and accessories. It’s impossible to name them all, but as the month goes on, here are some of the best brands and labels to add to your wishlist this Black History Month.
NADI
If you’re looking for an outfit with that bombshell factor, NADI is the brand for you. Sequins, beads, bright colors and flirty hems are what it takes to be a #nadigirl, and this Olandria-approved label is doing it-girl fashion right.
So Stylé is the definition of statement jewelry. Chunky bangles and oversized hoops make up the majority of the emerging brand’s collection. Designing bold, eclectic accessories that manifest in colorful stones and coiled bracelets, this is a name you need on your radar when it comes to pulling a look together.
Streetwear is in a good place, and Organic Garmentz has a little bit to do with that. Arguably one of the most exciting brands coming out of New York right now, expect kitschy accessories, graphic tees and bonnet-inspired fitted caps.
Your favorite influencer swears by Kai Collective. Founded in 2016 by Fisayo Longe, the brand gained popularity for its viral “Gaia” print mesh dresses and tops. Since then, Kai Collective has expanded into denim, loungewear, handbags and more, making it a one-stop-shop for all occasions.
A celebrity favorite, from Beyoncé and Rihanna to Tyla and Naomi Osaka, HOME by Areeayl is the embodiment of Black culture, history and creativity in the form of jewelry. Creating wearable art, earrings are crafted from cowrie shells and molded into female figurines. These are accessories that tell a story with every wear.
Tia Adeola’s eponymous label started ten years ago in a New York City dorm room. In the past decade, it has become a luxury staple, showing in both NYC and Lagos, and bringing Nigerian sartorial influences to a global audience. Color and texture are always at play in her collections, from beading and fishnets to oversized sequins. If you want to stand out from the crowd, Tia Adeola is the brand for you.
If you have a holiday coming up, DIARRABLU is the only brand you need on your shopping list. Designed in California and hand-crafted in Senegal, this bi-continental label specializes in resort wear, with gorgeous sets and flowing dresses made for beach days and seaside escapades.
Meji Meji isn’t just a brand, but a collective, bringing people together through the power of fashion. Founded by Nigerian-American creative Tolu Oye in 2020, the Meji Meji is known for witty, bold baby tees and accessories that merge Nigerian and African-American style together in one carefully-curated package.
Essence Nyrie’s parachute dress might have made its way to your feed recently, whether you know it or not. The slow fashion brand’s signature babydoll design is versatile, cute and eco-friendly, but this isn’t a one-trick pony. Getting you ready for the summer heat, Essence Nyrie’s latest design is a multi-use, oversized bandana for your styling pleasure.
They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and AKANO has plenty of friends to spare. The luxury jewelry brand adds a touch of African style to its intricate designs, crafting stars and flowers out of precious stones and gold. The continent has long been overlooked when it comes to fine jewelry, but AKANO is changing the narrative.