With demonstrations held across the United States protesting the unjust death of George Floyd during the summer of 2020, the fashion community stepped up to do its part. One way you can continue to support the community is by shopping pieces from Black designers. Some designers, like Aurora James of Brother Vellies, have issued powerful calls to action from big corporations. In an inspiring Instagram post, Aurora asked larger corporations like Net-a-Porter, Sephora, and Saks Fifth Avenue, to name a few, to step up to the plate and help make a change. She demanded a pledge from large companies to buy 15 percent of products from Black designers.
We still have a long way to go when it comes to addressing systemic racism, but it is crucial to do whatever you can to support Black-owned businesses – and not just now, but always. If you’re looking for a place to start, we’ve created a list of Black designers you can support. From Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss, whose fashion shows have celebrated Black history, to Rihanna, who has helped changed the landscape with Fenty by becoming the first Black woman to create an original brand for LVHM, we’re listing 26 Black designers you can support and shop from ahead.
Related: 5 Designers Share How They're Bringing Black Girl Magic to the Fashion Industry
Getty / Nicholas Hunt
Aurora James of Brother Vellies
Chances are you’ve probably seen Aurora James’s gorgeous Brother Vellies designs (like the fuzzy heels she’s wearing in this photo here!) The accessory brand was created in 2013 “with the goal of keeping traditional African design practices and techniques alive while also creating and sustaining artisanal jobs.”
Getty / Astrid Stawiarz
Telfar Clemens of Telfar
Telfar Clemens started Telfar in 2003, and the brand has a cult following, thanks to its sleek logo bag which has been dubbed “Buschwick’s Birkin.” The brand’s motto pretty much sums up its aesthetic: “It’s not for you – it’s for everyone.”
Getty / Gilbert Carrasquillo
Tracy Reese
Tracy Reese is known for creating dreamy, feminine dresses. Her designs are beloved by many, including former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Getty / Ilya S. Savenok
Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa
Anifa Mvuemba’s size-inclusive label, Hanifa, is inspired by Congo. Her collection includes bold, feminine pieces ranging from sizes 0-20.
Getty / Albert Urso
Victor Glemaud
Haitian-born designer Victor Glemaud launched his eponymous brand in 2006. The designer is known for reworking classic knitwear pieces.
Getty / Tasia Wells / Stringer
Jason Rembert of Aliétte
Jason Rembert is a celebrity stylist with clients like Issa Rae, Rita Ora, and Marsai Martin. His luxury label, Aliétte, is inspired by his mother and the nuances of womanhood.
Getty / Nicholas Hunt
Maxwell Osborne of Public School
Public School is a New York City-based brand known for its streetwear-infused pieces. The brand was started by Maxwell Osborne and Dao-Yi Chow in 2008 and supports local tailors and pattern-makers.
Davar Stephen
Brea Stinson of Stinson Haus
Although she’s lived in LA for about a decade, Brea’s Detroit upbringing heavily influences her work, which she describes as “comfortable confidence with an edge.” Stinson Haus’s loose, two-piece ensembles have a certain coolness, her outwear is embellished with glitzy baubles, and her fabrics are infused with vivacity.
Getty / Ben Gabbe
Amaka Osakwe of Maki Oh
Founded 2010 by Amaka Osakwe, Maki Oh is a womenswear brand that uses traditional African techniques and blends them with contemporary construction. The brand has been worn by Lupita Nyong’o and Solange Knowles, to name a few.
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Romeo Hunte
Brooklyn-born Romeo Hunte started his eponymous contemporary brand in 2014. The designer focuses on statement outerwear pieces that strike a balance between being edgy and sophisticated.
Getty / Bennett Raglin
Andrea Iyamah
In 2013, Nigerian fashion designer Dumebi Iyamah launched her swimwear line Andrea Iyamah. The pieces are inspired by “color, ethnic cultures, nature, and design elements.” Since its launch in 2013, the brand has moved into ready-to-wear pieces as well.
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Laurence Basse
Laurence Basse was a finalist on Project Runway season 15. The designer’s work has appeared on everyone from NBA player Dwight Howard to actress Gina Rodriguez.
Getty / Bertrand Rindoff Petroff
Thebe Magugu
Thebe Magugu was the first Black designer to win the LVHM prize in the competition’s seven-year history. The designer focuses on women’s ready-to-wear and has committed to producing all of his pieces in South Africa.
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Kenneth Ize
Kenneth Ize collaborates with artisans and weavers across Nigeria to help create his colorful designs. The brand is devoted to the long-established traditions of Nigerian craft and local artisans.
