With February being Black History Month, it is the perfect time to assess your own shopping habits and commit to supporting more Black-owned brands, not just during Black History Month but all year long.
Here are 7 brands in the fashion and beauty space that you should check out:
1) House of Aama
For truly stunning fashion that tells a story, look no further than House of Aama. Founded in 2015 by mother-daughter design duo Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka, House of Aama is inspired by Black history and storytelling. The brand uses archival designs and styles to start a dialogue and connect Black history to the present, like their Spring 2022 collection “Salt Water” which draws inspiration from Black seafarers of the early 1900s.
Shop: House of Aama Rebecca Pussybow Dress
2) Unsun Cosmetics
When founder Katonya Breaux noticed in 2016 the lack of clean, no-residue sunscreen options for women of color, she set out to create her own. Unsun provides mineral sunscreen and SPF products for all skin tones, with ingredients that are reef-safe and packaging made of environmentally conscious materials.
Shop: Unsun Cosmetics Hydrating Full Coverage Body Lotion SPF 30
3) Noite Rose
Just in time for Valentine’s Day! Noite Rose is new to the scene, having just launched in October of 2021, but the brand is already making waves for its wonderful loungewear options. From playful rompers to cozy dresses, Noite Rose offers a loungewear option for every type of lady and offers an extra layer of romanticism to everyday life.
Shop: Noite Rose Best Part Romper
4) Flora & Noor
Flora & Noor founder Jordan Karim developed the brand after struggling to find skincare products that were halal and effective for melanin-rich skin. She began to create products out of her own kitchen and now has a full skincare line that includes cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, and other skincare essentials. Along with being vegan, cruelty-free, and well-priced at under $40 per product, Flora & Noor is one of the only halal-certified brands in the United States.
Shop: Flora & Noor Shea Sugar Scrub
5) Hogoé Kpessou
Hogoé Kpessou has already won over celebrity fans like Cardi B, and it is easy to see why. Born in Togo and now based in the United States, Hogoé Kpessou’s designs are inspired by West African culture and focused on bringing attainable luxury and artisanal details to her handbags. This year, she is expanding into clothing as well!
Shop: Hogoé Kpessou Black Bee Backpack
6) JADE Swim
Founder Brittany Kozerski Freeney launched JADE Swim in 2017 after noticing a lack of swimsuit options that could be worn both at the pool and as layering, ready-to-wear items. With sustainably-made swimsuits that come in a dazzling array of vibrant hues (and neutrals if you prefer!) JADE is one of the best swimwear brands around.
Shop: JADE Swim Sena One Piece
7) Vontélle
Vontélle delivers bold eyewear for true fashionistas. Co-founders Tracy and Nancey wanted to develop an eyewear brand that paid homage to their African ancestry with traditional colors and patterns, along with handcrafted designs that would be both stylish and durable. With both optical and sunglasses to choose from, Vontélle’s glasses options are perfect for anyone looking to make a style statement.
Shop: Vontélle Acacia Aviators
