We’ve put together a list of our top 5 black-owned fashion brands to support.
Up and down the country, there was immense solidarity shown for the Black Lives Matter movement. On May 25th, George Floyd’s murder in Minneapolis spurred on countless protests, petitions, and donations. It brought up important conversations about police brutality and systemic racism worldwide.
Even if your social media feed is slowly returning back to ‘normal,’ it’s so important to maintain your support. There is always something you can do, no matter how big or small.
One way to continue supporting the movement is by being mindful with your money. Instead of buying from large corporations, why not buy from a black-owned business instead? There’s so many amazing brands out there you can support today.
If you’re a fashionista and not sure where to start, we’ve got you! Here’s a list of five black-owned fashion brands to check out. Expect to see creativity, culture, and style in spades.
1. Elsie & Fred.
If you need a pop of colour in your wardrobe, Elsie & Fred is the fashion brand for you. They describe themselves as an “all inclusive black-owned company” that was founded by three siblings: Leanne, Natalie, and Ryan Hayes. Their main goal is to empower women through a range of vibrant looks.
The clothes they sell wouldn’t look out of place at any festival. Think matching coordinates, crop tops, and daring slip dresses available in every colour of the rainbow. Be sure to check out their latest collections for some truly eye-catching prints.
2. Kemi Telford.
This next brand is perfect if you’re fond of a statement print. Kemi Telford, founded by Yvonne Telford, is a womenswear brand home to a range of colourful clothing. She sells pieces inspired by her Nigerian heritage with a western twist and encourages women to feel confident through her designs.
Her brand features an amazing selection of full-length, circle skirts. They come in a range of eye-catching patterns – from flirty florals to vivid geometrics. You can also buy these prints in dress form. There are vintage-inspired midi dresses, stunning maxi dresses, and flattering wrap dresses to choose from.
3. CUSHNIE
CUSHNIE is a successful luxury womenswear brand founded by Carly Cushnie in 2008. They create ready-to-wear clothing to help women feel chic, sexy, and confident in their everyday lives. In fact, many of their pieces have been worn by influential women. Michelle Obama, Lupita Nyong’o, and Beyoncé have all been seen wearing CUSHNIE.
The brand focuses on creating clean, structured silhouettes that flatter a variety of body types. Look no further than their website to find clothing you’ll be dying to have in your wardrobe. Stunning slip dresses, refined trousers, sleek blazers, and draped blouses.
4. Daughter of a Bohemian.
Nuala Ferrington founded her online boutique, Daughter of a Bohemian, after having worked as a fashion buyer for over 23 years. She now focuses on slow fashion by selling one-of-a-kind, upcycled clothing. Most of these pieces are made from rescued fabrics that are customised with fun details. Think embellishment, embroidery, or hand-painted motifs.
They are best known for their collection of reworked vintage kimonos. These statement pieces often have reversible fabric and look amazing when worn down with a simple T-shirt and trainers.
5. Chalk.
Malaika is the mastermind behind the jewellery brand Chalk. She is a full-time architect who applies her love of architectural design into the world of jewellery. The end result is a jaw dropping collection of pendants, bracelets, rings, and earrings that’ll brighten up the most basic of looks.
Many of her designs are made with a laser cutting machine. This is a technique she picked up as an architect and would typically be used to create model buildings. Her pieces are bright, intricate, and reflect Malaika’s love for travel, culture, and everyday objects.
There you have it Amorelles – our top 5 black-owned fashion brands to follow and buy from, making sure you are kept stylish and supporting the cause for racial equality.
Words : Holly Choules
