Catch Us Outside… How About That?
Please forgive the title. I couldn’t resist.
It’s beginning to feel like single, I mean summer outside, and we plan to be right in the thick of things! Festivals, concerts, vacations, baby showers, you name it! Hell, we might even hit a repast or two if invited. 💀😩 No, but seriously we’re outside until further notice. And it wouldn’t be us if we didn’t do it in style. So, if you’re looking to get reacquainted with the streets in the upcoming months as well, keep reading. We’ve got a list of black designers you’ll want to incorporate into your return.
via @bricksandwood Instagram
Bricks & Wood – A South Central Company
If you like streetwear, you’re going to love Bricks & Wood. Founded by South Central Los Angeles native, Kacey Lynch, the brand’s merchandise features slogans like Support Your Homies and Family Not A Group. But beware, Bricks & Wood’s collections sell out quickly! Like Mr. Lynch says, “streetwear is not dying.”
via @hanifaofficial Instagram
Founded in 2012 by self-taught fashion designer, Anifa Mvuemba, Hanifa became a household name after a groundbreaking virtual fashion show at the height of the pandemic. And the rest, as they say, is history. Mvuemba’s creativity placed her at the center of fashion conversations, and she used her platform to promote social awareness. The fashion house’s eye-catching, curve-hugging pieces have been worn by the likes of Beyonce’, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Zendaya but are priced reasonably enough for us to afford. And while Anifa prides herself in designing for black women, her brand “hold(s) true to providing luxurious pieces for all women, at every turn of her lifestyle.” OK!
via @tier_nyc Instagram
Founded by Brooklyn-based friends and designers, Nigeria Ealey, Victor James, and Esaiii2e Jean Simon, Tier’s motto is Art Never Dies. With male, female, and youth offerings, Tier’s designs are vibrant and unique and include a range of pieces from dresses to outerwear. The brand’s story is centered on creativity, inspiration, and impact through fashion and experiences, and if their SS22 Fashion Week presentation was any indication, Tier will be serving inspiration for seasons to come.
via @mateonewyork Instagram
Launched in 2009 by Montego Bay, Jamaica native, Matthew Harris, Mateo New York’s original focal point was men’s jewelry. But thanks to the brand’s strategic refocusing in 2014, Mateo creates elegant handbags now as well. Perfect for the feminine minimalist, Mateo’s chic handbag designs are luxurious, practical, and sure to beg the question, “where’d you get that bag?”
via @brothervellies Instagram
Aurora James founded Brother Vellies in 2013 with the goal of keeping traditional African design techniques alive while creating artisanal jobs. Nearly a decade later, the brand has been recognized in numerous fashion publications and honored at the 2021 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards – mission accomplished. Specializing in hand-crafted shoes, handbags, and accessories, Brother Vellies is produced across the globe and committed to sustainable practices. And they make one hell of a shoe!
For more emerging black designers, check out blackdesignersdirectory on Instagram. And shout out some of your favorite black creators in the comments below. Love and Hugs!
Dominique Kelly
Love love love Hanifa’s pieces! Aminah Abdul Jillil is one of my shoe brands. Luxury at an affordable price point, and a fabulous black designer.