Every day it seems like new fashion ventures, especially Black-owned fashion brands and designers, are popping up online and in-store featuring designs and creations of people from diverse backgrounds and sizes. Even though it’s easier than ever to #BuyBlack, it can still be difficult to come across these Black-owned brands, unless you specifically search for them.
Retail stores like Target, Sephora, and Nordstrom highlight Black-owned brands that they sell on their site through a designated section, however, there are still thousands of indie brands that still struggle to keep up with the ever-growing market. Even after a handful of companies have committed to supporting Black-owned businesses with Aurora James' 15 Percent Pledge, it's still harder than it should be to find amazing Black designers to support.
To make things a little easier for everyone, we've rounded up 62 of our absolute favorite Black fashion designers; from apparel to accessories. Keep clicking through and discover some of the best celebrity-loved and up-and-coming labels, ahead.
The State of the Arts is InStyle's biannual celebration of the Black creativity and excellence driving fashion, beauty, self-care, and the culture at large.
Zou Xou
- Designer: Katherine Theobalds
- Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Price: $149- $340
- Offerings: Shoes
- Size(s): 35 EU-43 EU
- What makes the brand stand out? The brand prides itself on making classic, versatile shoes for independent women. The small-batch collections are handmade in Argentina, where the artisans negotiate their own wages and set their own hours.
Savage X Fenty
- Designer: Rihanna
- Location: Los Angeles
- Price: $15- $113
- Offerings: Lingerie, underwear, pajamas, slippers, and face masks
- Size(s): XS-4X, 30A-38D and 38DD-46DDD
- What makes the brand stand out? Sexy pieces and size diversity are just two reasons why Savage x Fenty is a top lingerie brand. Riri made sure that there was a wide range of sizes offered in every drop, and there's also a whole section dedicated to lingerie for men.
Chelsea Paris
- Designer: Theresa Ebagua
- Location: Los Angeles and London
- Price: $295- $595
- Offerings: Shoes
- Size(s): 36 EU-42 EU
- What makes the brand stand out? Looking for a statement shoe? Chelsea Paris has you covered. From animal print boots to trendy platform Mary Janes, it'll be hard to decide on just one pair.
Yam
- Designer: Morgan Thomas
- Location: Queens, NY
- Price: $35- $190
- Offerings: Jewelry (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings)
- Size(s): Rings; 5-0
- What makes the brand stand out? Yes, there are whimsical, quirky floral designs in this mix, but if you're looking for a classic stud or chain-link necklace, they have those, too.
Fanm Mon
- Designer: Sophia Demirtas
- Location: Turkey
- Price: $160- $399
- Offerings: Apparel and bags
- Size(s): XXS-XXL
- What makes the brand stand out? These playful, puff-sleeved, rose embroidered dresses are beyond dreamy — which is probably why they've become an influencer favorite and are all over Instagram. They even make clothes for kids, too.
par Bronté Laurent
- Designer: Bronté Laurent
- Location: Brooklyn, NY
- Price: $38- $338
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): S-L
- What makes the brand stand out? Get ready to turn heads in these slinky, satin dresses and sets, which are not only sexy, but easy to wear.
Zelie for She
- Designer: Elann Zelie
- Location: Los Angeles
- Price: $39- $179
- Offerings: Apparel and hair scarves
- Size(s): 1X-3X
- What makes the brand stand out? Cutouts, prints, ruching, ruffles — Zelie for She's plus-size pieces include it all and then some. However, be warned: each design is made in a limited run, so if something catches your eye, you'll have to act fast.
Lisou
- Designer: Rene Macdonald
- Location: London
- Price: $11- $600
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): UK 6- UK 16
- What makes the brand stand out? Who says structured staples have to be bland and boring? Loud prints and vibrant colors turn these staples, including sleek trousers and blazers, into statement pieces.
Mateo New York
- Designer: Matthew Harris
- Location: New York
- Price: $60- $32,190
- Offerings: Jewelry, bags, and candles
- Size(s): Rings (5-9)
- What makes the brand stand out? Whether you're feeling pearl drop earrings, simple gold hoops, or healing crystal pendant necklaces, you'll find it here. While the selection is more 'investment' than 'impulse buy,' every item is chic, timeless, and will likely remain in your rotation for decades, justifying the price tag.
AAKS
- Designer: Akosua Afriyie-Kumi
- Location: Ghana
- Price: $49- $325
- Offering: Bags
- What makes the brand stand out? While AAKS's expertly-crafted, weaved bags will remind you of a beach vacation, you'll find they're so durable and versatile, they work as an everyday go-to (especially during the summer months).
Theophilio
- Designer: Edvin Thompson
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Price: $38-302
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): XS-XL (men and women)
- What makes the brand stand out? Drawing from both his youth in Jamaica and time in NYC, Thompson's contemporary designs are the pieces you'll want to live in, whether you're heading to the office or grabbing drinks with friends. Plus, while a large portion is unisex, you won't be stuck choosing between beige and gray — everything is vibrant and colorful, adding some spice to your wardrobe.
PHLEMUNS
- Designer: James Flemons
- Location: Los Angeles
- Price: $49- $300
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XXL
- What makes the brand stand out? This brand has the approval of top style icons like Bella Hadid and Lil Nas X, and everything — from the striped shirts to the 2-in-1 tees — is meant to be worn by everyone, regardless of gender identity.
Fe Noel
- Designer: Fe Noel
- Location: Brooklyn
- Price: $98 - $1,098
- Offerings: Swimwear and apparel
- Size(s): XS-XL, one-size, and made-to-measure
- What makes the brand stand out? These soft-colored pieces will hug, wrap around, and showcase all your curves without feeling constricting, and you'll likely want to relax in its collection of playful robes. Aside from Michelle Obama, Gabrielle Union and Beyoncé are fans.
Telfar
- Designer: Telfar Clemens
- Location: Brooklyn
- Price: $55- $257
- Offerings: Bags, apparel, accessories, jewelry, shoes
- Size(s): XS-2XL (clothes) and 35 EU-46 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? That bag you keep spotting on everyone, from your fashion-forward neighbor to Oprah to AOC? Yep, that's Telfar, and whenever new colorways drop, you need to act quick — because they sell out in a flash. One big draw here is the designer quality for reasonable prices. However, if you do miss out, don't worry: Telfar also sells sweats, hats, and other wardrobe essentials, so you can take your pick.
Christopher John Rogers
- Designer: Christopher John Rogers
- Location: Brooklyn
- Price: $175- $4,000
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): 0-18 and made-to-measure
- What makes the brand stand out? Shiny, voluminous, and colorful designs that make us audibly gasp each time we spot them on a celebrity. Lizzo, Tracee Ellis Ross, Zendaya, and pretty much any style icon you can think of has one (or many) of these pieces in their closet. Not ready to wear a full gown to date night? There are slightly more subtle blazers and printed pants, too.
Daily Paper
- Designer: Hussein Suleiman, Jefferson Osei and Abderrahmane Trabsini
- Location: Amsterdam
- Price: $11- $550
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XXL (men and women)
- What makes the brand stand out? Sweatshirt dresses, pleated skirts, and biker shorts sets. That's just some of what you'll want to 'add to cart' while scrolling through Daily Paper's site. These items are sporty with an elevated, feminine flair, and the best part is the price tags won't make you do a shocked double-take.
Oyemwen
- Designer: Oyemwen Oriakhi
- Location: Atlanta
- Price: $60- $850
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): XS-5XL and custom
- What makes the brand stand out? Sometimes, we need an over-the-top, ruffled, tulle something to wear for our birthday, wedding, or other special occasion. These voluminous dresses will make your princess dreams come true — and yes, there's a mommy-and-me collection, too, so your mini can match as well.
Victor Glemaud
- Designer: Victor Glemaud
- Location: New York
- Price: $97- $1,295
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? It isn't easy to combine cozy with sexy, but Victor Glamaud has managed to do just that. His cutout sweater dresses and tops were already a favorite among celebrities like Ashley Graham and Selena Gomez, but when Meghan Markle wore an asymmetrical design for a Zoom interview? The brand solidified its spot in fashion history. There's also another reason to show support: Glemaud is the founder of IN THE BLK, a network for Black creatives.
BYCHARI
- Designer: Chari Cuthbert
- Location: Los Angeles
- Price: $40- $1,110
- Offerings: Jewelry
- Size(s): Rings (2-10)
- What makes the brand stand out? Remember Michelle Obama's famous "vote" necklace? This is the brand who created it, and that friendly reminder was just a taste of what it has to offer. Whether you're in the market for dainty drops, standout hoops, or chains and pendants for layering, you'll find it here, along with some great gift options.
Sergio Hudson
- Designer: Sergio Hudson
- Location: Los Angeles
- Price: $195- $1,895
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): 0-16
- What makes the brand stand out? If you want your outfit to signal that you're a boss, it's time to invest in a suit, skirt set, or dress from Sergio Hudson. Not only is Vice President Kamala Harris a fan, Michelle Obama made many headlines while wearing a full Sergio Hudson look to the Inauguration. And, those are just two big names on the list of famous faces who enjoy these clothes. Jennifer Lopez, Issa Rae, and Kourtney Kardashian have also been spotted in pieces on the red carpet.
Brandon Blackwood
- Designer: Brandon Blackwood
- Location: Brooklyn
- Price: $70- $8,500
- What makes the brand stand out? These structured totes will no doubt add a pop of color to your outfit, and the classic shape means they'll last you for years to come. But even more than that, many of the pieces come with a message written on the side: "End systematic racism."
House of Aama
- Designer: Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka
- Location: Los Angeles
- Price: $45- $1,300
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): 0-18
- What makes the brand stand out? Not everyone would be able to handle working with family every day, but the mother daughter duo behind this brand makes it seem like a good idea — especially after you spot all the lacy, Victorian-like dresses just begging to be bought. According to the site, the brand's inspiration is to "evoke dialogue, social commentary and conversations around heritage, remembrance and shed light on nuanced histories."
Jade Swim
- Designer: Brittany Kozerski Freeney
- Location: New York
- Price: $50- $245
- Offerings: Swimwear
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Brittany Kozerski used to work as a fashion editor, so you know she has her finger on the pulse of what's hot, and she's definitely used that skill to her advantage when it comes to designing swimwear. These bikinis and one-pieces are minimalistic (you won't find prints or embellishments here), but with creative ruching, unexpected straps, and lots of earth tones and neutrals, you won't have to wonder why it's a hit among celebrities like Kaia Gerber and Chrissy Teigen.
TIER
- Designer: Esaïe Jean-Simon, Nigeria Ealey, and Victor James
- Location: Brooklyn
- Price: $35 - $440
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XXL (men and women) and 2T-9Y (youth)
- What makes the brand stand out? For Tier NYC, fashion equals art, which is why the designs feature details that make you want to take a second look, such as a newspaper print or geometric lines that help highlight certain body parts. Plus, if you're looking to upgrade your sweats, there are a variety of bright, satin alternatives available to help you relax in style.
TOVE
- Designer: Camille Perry and Holly Wright
- Location: London
- Price: $77- $1,174
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): US 2-US 10
- What makes the brand stand out? You can tell by just looking at these dresses, coats, and lingerie offerings that this contemporary brand is all about luxury. You won't find one-wear-wonders here: Every item is sleek and versatile enough to be layered and worn year-round, so you'll really get your money's worth.
Tia Adeola
- Designer: Teni "Tia" Adeola
- Location: New York
- Price: $30- $1200
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Having a selection of playful, eye-catching masks is now on the list for what makes a brand cool in our eyes — and Tia Adeola has over-delivered. Not only will you want to drop $45 on one of its ruffled options, you'll also be tempted by the selection of crop tops and sheer matching sets, which were inspired by the Renaissance period.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear
- Designer: Corianna and Brianna Dotson
- Location: New York
- Price: $150- $300
- Offerings: Eyewear
- What makes the brand stand out? If looking at a computer screen all day has really messed with your eyes, or you're in the market for a pair of new sunglasses, it's time to peruse this site. There are plenty of shapes and colors to choose from, so you're bound to find something that suits your specific aesthetic without sacrificing your whole paycheck.
Heron Preston
- Designer: Heron Preston
- Location: New York
- Price: $105 - $1,635
- Offerings: Apparel, jewelry, bags, shoes, and other accessories
- Size(s): XXS-XXL (men and women), 35 EU-41 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? You know how certain top models and celebrities step out in outfits that seem effortless without being boring or average? This brand is the epitome of that. It's here you'll find the graphic tees, bomber jackets, denim, and sweats you always wished you had in your closet. They'll no doubt turn your everyday ensembles into enviable street style looks.
Thebe Magugu
- Designer: Thebe Magugu
- Location: South Africa
- Price: $95- $1,653
- Offerings: Apparel, accessories, and shoes
- Size(s): 36 EU-42 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? Magugu was the first African designer to ever win the coveted LVMH Prize for Young Designers, and it's not hard to see why. His pieces are easy to wear, yet tailored and sharp, complete with dreamy details and colors that aren't too over-the-top.
Aliétte
- Designer: Jason Rembert
- Location: New York
- Price: $50- $1,500
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): 0-10
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What makes the brand stand out? Even in a pandemic, Aliètte became a red carpet, Zoom call, and cover story go-to for celebs. You may have seen Lizzo, Keke Palmer, Kelly Rowland, Ciara, and Cardi B breaking necks in the brand's glamorous designs, created by celebrity stylist Jason Rembert.
Hanifa
- Designer: Anifa Mvuemba
- Location: Kensington, MD
- Price: $25- $2400
- Offerings: Apparel and shoes
- Size(s): XS-3XL and made-to-order (clothes), 35 EU-42 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? Looking for statement pieces that are high-quality but aren't ridiculously expensive? Add Hanifa to your bookmarks right now. The brand originally started making custom pieces and specializing in alterations, but now its collections are blowing up on Instagram. From Zendaya's bird-like dress to SJP's blanket cardigan, we've opened our wallets more than once after seeing a celebrity wear these designs.
Pyer Moss
- Designer: Kerby Jean-Raymond
- Location: New York
- Price: $70 - $1,500
- Offerings: Apparel, bags, shoes, and other accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL (clothes) and 36 EU-41 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? You'll find '90s nostalgia and hip-hop influences throughout Pyer Moss's designs, but especially in its Reebok collaboration. The brand has also been incorporating activism into its overall identity for years, with powerful runway presentations that speak to the political and socio-economic climate.
Nubian Skin
- Designer: Ade Hassan
- Location: London
- Price: $14 - $135
- Offerings: Lingerie, undergarments
- Size(s): 30B-40G (bras) and S-XXXL (hosiery)
- What makes the brand stand out? Here's one of the first brands to recognize that nude means more than just beige. Brown skin girls will fall in love with these multi-tone tights, lingerie, and bodysuits.
Andrea Iyamah
- Designer: Dumebi Iyamah
- Location: Ontario
- Price: $32- $1017
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XXL and one size
- What makes the brand stand out? Swimwear designed with African culture in mind made this brand a popular hit on the 'gram, but Andrea Iyamah creates beautiful ready-to-wear and custom dresses as well.
Ashya
- Designer: Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece
- Location: Brooklyn
- Price: $135 - $777
- Offerings: Bags
- What makes the brand stand out? This is where you'll find the chicest collection of belt bags around (even Beyoncé's into them). Grab one so you can go hands free at the grocery store or during your next trip — while cinching your waist and adding a pop to your outfit.
Stella Jean
- Designer: Stella Jean
- Location: Rome
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): 34-46/XXS-XL
- Price: $45- $525
- What makes the brand stand out? Stella Jean's clothes are a reflection of Creole heritage and are all about having fun. Bright, playful patterns decorate laid-back-yet-polished blouses, daytime dresses, and chic shorts.
Brother Vellies
- Designer: Aurora James
- Location: New York City
- Price: $35 - $1,495
- Offerings: Shoes and bags
- Size(s): 5-12
- What makes the brand stand out? Remember those iconic boots from Queen and Slim? Yep, those were Brother Vellies. This eco-friendly brand creates accessories with intricate designs handmade in South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Morocco, and are also responsible for the crowd-favorite Cloud Socks.
Muehleder
- Designer: Muehleder
- Location: New York City
- Price: $95- $495
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Muehleder is known for creating statement-making dresses out of neoprene, and the brand also carries cool leather pieces and shimmering designs that are perfect for a night out. I'd definitely recommend keeping Muehleder in mind for your next big event. Issa Rae and Normani are already fans.
Salone Monet
- Designer: Salone Monet Johnson
- Location: New York
- Price: $295- $405
- Offerings: Shoes
- Size(s): 5-12
- What makes the brand stand out? Salone Monet specializes in creating classic heels that are available in up to six skin-tone shades. You might have even recognized a pair of these brown sandals on Beyoncé's feet. And, by the way, these luxurious designs were made in Italy.
Romeo Hunte
- Designer: Romeo Hunte
- Location: New York
- Price: $175 - $3,500
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Hunte is king when it comes to creating outerwear that perfectly mixes feminine with masculine. You might also find a variety of cool-girl denim designs and everyday styles for the fashion-forward guy while perusing.
Undra Celeste
- Designer: Undra Celeste
- Location: New York
- Price: $95 - $350
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): S-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Looking for contemporary pieces that will effortlessly work into your busy lifestyle? Undra Celeste is the answer, creating versatile dresses, sweatshirts, and stand-out skirts for an affordable price.
Off-White
- Designer: Virgil Abloh
- Location: Milan
- Price: $80 - $10,255
- Offerings: Apparel, shoes, bags, and other accessories
- Size(s): XXS-3XL (men and women), 4Y-12Y (youth), 38 EU-49 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? The list of A-listers wearing the late Virgil Abloh's designs keeps getting bigger — and we can see why. Off-White designs speak to the culture with a laid-back ease that manages to feel both effortless and carefully selected all at once.
LaQuan Smith
- Designer: LaQuan Smith
- Location: NYC
- Price: $100 - $2,000
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): XS-L
- What makes the brand stand out? Who's the designer all of your favorite celebs including the Kardashians and Julia Fox turn to for sexy, eye-catching outfits? LaQuan Smith, of course. The young star has built an internationally recognizable brand from the ground up, and has also collaborated with major retailers like ASOS.
Lemlem
- Designer: Liya Kebede
- Location: Africa
- Price: $20 - $525
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Made in Africa, Lemlem, founded by supermodel Liya Kebede, focuses on creating jobs all across the continent. The soft, cozy, cotton pieces from the main collection are handwoven in Ethiopia.
WANT les Essentiels
- Designer: Byron and Dexter Peart
- Location: Montreal
- Price: $15 - $1,250
- Offerings: Bags, apparel, shoes, and other accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL (men and women) and 35 EU-41 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? Want to travel or commute in style? This label — known for creating sleek luggage, duffel bags, and gadgets at reasonable price points — is one you should keep on your radar.
Wales Bonner
- Designer: Grace Wales Bonner
- Location: London
- Price: $433 - $2,694
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Wales Bonner is a need-to-know brand that was already being praised for its perfectly tailored menswear — and now, it's taking over the women's side of the market, too. On top of selling the ultimate preppy staples, from tops to blazers to utterly impeccable pants, Wales Bonner also released an Adidas collaboration to feed your sporty side.
Mint Swim
- Designer: Draya Michele
- Location: California
- Price: $18 - $105
- Offerings: Swimwear
- Size(s): XS-L
- Online Retailers: mint-swim.com
- What makes the brand stand out? One requirement we have for swimsuits these days is that they really stand out...for our social media photos (don't @ us). Mint Swim is your best bet, with unexpected cutouts and attention-grabbing fabrics, all of which are available in a decent range of sizes.
BruceGlen
- Designer: Bruce and Glen Proctor
- Location: New York City
- Price: $65 - $695
- Offerings: Apparel, bags, and other accessories
- Size(s): 0-14
- What makes the brand stand out? Identical twins, Bruce and Glen, have been working together in the fashion industry for several years, having initially interned for Beyonce’s House of Dereon. The twins are self-proclaimed “The Fashion Preachers,” since they work as fashion designers and church ministers. The BruceGlen brand is full of bright colors and bold patterns featuring apparel items and some stunning avant-garde bags.
Dearcurves
- Designer: Ojoma Idegwu
- Location: New York City, NY
- Price: $38 - $129
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): US 14-US 28
- What makes the brand stand out? Ojoma Idegwu created this brand specifically for plus-size women who are often left out of the conversation in the fashion world. At the time of the brand's creation in 2013 being a size 12 and wanting flattering and attractive clothes was unheard of. Dear Curves is a love letter to big bodies that want stylish looks for work, dinner night, or any other occasion worth dressing up for.
Busayo
- Designer: Busayo Olupona
- Location: New York City, NY
- Price: $75 - $625
- Offerings: Apparel, accessories, and home goods
- Size(s): XXS-XXL
- What makes the brand stand out? This namesake brand was founded by creative designer Busayo Olupona in 2011 after working for several years as a lawyer. Olupona started the brand as a way to continue her own design passions and a way to bring Nigerian traditions to clothes making. The brand sells beautifully patterned and designed apparel and home pieces using a traditional Yoruba textile dyeing technique called Adire.
ANIMA IRIS
- Designer: Wilglory Tanjong
- Location: Dakar, Senegal
- Price: $585 - $2,195
- Offerings: Bags
- What makes the brand stand out? What started as a way to make money on the side while the founder completed her MBA turned into a beloved handbag brand by celebrities and influencers alike. Beyoncé even wore one of the brand's bags in an Instagram post last year. Besides the fun bag styles and bold patterns, the brand follows a zero-waste model, which makes for more individualistic bags since no two will be the same, ensuring all materials are used.
Studio 189
- Designer: Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah
- Location: Ghana and NYC
- Price: $65 - $995
- Offerings: Apparel and accessories
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Craftsmanship is at the helm of this brand made in Africa. With a store operating in Ghana, they support community-led projects by connecting fashion design with humanitarian work. Founders Dawson and Erwiah make sure the brand gives back every step of the way to embrace the roots of the clothing and the traditions behind them.
Jibri
- Designer: Jasmine Elder
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Price: $75 - $330
- Offerings: Apparel and jewelry
- Size(s): 0-4 (10-26)
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What makes the brand stand out? Everyone should feel good about the clothes they’re wearing, unfortunately for plus-size folks, this isn’t always the case. Elder has been bridging the gap in the fashion industry between stylish clothes and plus-sizes since 2009 when her first Jibri collection was launched. 13 years later and she’s still designing chic and modern pieces for office wear, parties, and special occasions.
Christian Omeshun
- Designer: A’shontay Hubbard
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Price: $15 - $600
- Offerings: Apparel, bridal, and jewelry
- Size(s): L-5XL
- What makes the brand stand out? Hubbard founded the brand in 2011 paving a way for plus-size clothing that doesn’t settle on style or fit. Bodycon dresses, wide-leg pants, and custom bridal looks are a few of the design offerings this brand has, with an emphasis on showing off all types of bodies. All in trendy clothes that are made with large bodies in mind.
Love, Vera
- Designer(s): Vera Moore and Nate Johnson.
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Price: $15 - $65
- Offerings: Lingerie, undergarments, and other apparel
- Size(s): 32A-44DDD (bras), S-4X (other apparel)
- What makes the brand stand out? At one point Beyoncé shared this brand to her website, which prompted founders Moore and Johnson to call every single person they knew to share the good news. This lingerie brand offers sexy pieces and sets, made to fit a variety of nude/skin tone shades one silky/sparkly garter at a time.
Poetic Justice
- Designer: Kalia Kirby
- Price: $34 - $108
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): 4-24
- What makes the brand stand out? What started as a jean brand in 2013, has blossomed into a full-apparel site focused on plus-size bodies as well as standard sizes. Since its conception, celebrities like Wendy Williams, Jordan Sparks, and Amber Riley have worn designs from Poetic Justice, which got its namesake from the popular Kendrick Lamar song.
Kimberly Goldson
- Designer: Kimberly Goldson and Shelly Powell
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Price: $75 - $798
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): XS-XL
- What makes the brand stand out? The brand's namesake was a finalist on Season 9 of the design reality show, Project Runway, as well as a contestant on Season 6 of Project Runway All Stars. A year later, Goldson along with her sister Powell developed their brand, with a focus on vibrant designs, patterns, and luxe materials.
Martine Ali
- Designer: Martine Ali
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Price: $50 - $650
- Offerings: Jewelry, bags, and other accessories
- Size(s): Rings (6-11)
- What makes the brand stand out? The Gen Z influence on the fashion industry is evident with this brand that mixes the grunge era of the 90s in a modern style. Founder Martine Ali isn’t afraid to get abstract with her designs, releasing chain link jewelry, keychains, and handbags.
Harwell Godfrey
- Designer: Lauren Harwell Godfrey
- Location: Bay Area, California
- Price: $595 - $76,000
- Offerings: Jewelry
- Size(s): Rings (3-8)
- What makes the brand stand out? Are you looking for a luxury Black-owned jewelry brand for an anniversary gift, engagement ring, or a really nice gift? Look no further than Harwell Godfrey, a handcrafted fine jewelry brand made with 18k gold and ethically-sourced diamonds to bring to life the cultural and traditional pieces from Lauren Harwell Godfrey’s mind. Celebrities like Cynthia Erivo, Hilary Swank, and Thandiwe Newton have sported this brand, along with Vice President Kamala Harris.
CDGNY By CD Greene
- Designer: CD Greene
- Location: New York City, New York
- Price: $550 - $2,650
- Offerings: Apparel
- Size(s): 2-12
- What makes the brand stand out? Expensive girl vibes over here! CD Greene has been designing and working in the fashion industry for over a decade, bringing his camp and glitzy designs with him. He takes inspiration from Hollywood starlets and music divas, and it shows with the sequin, metallic, and flowy gowns he designs each season.
Fear of God
- Designer: Jerry Lorenzo
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Price: $45 - $1,395
- Offerings: Apparel, accessories, and shoes
- Size(s): XS to XXL and one-size (men and women), 2-14 (youth), 26 EU-47 EU (shoes)
- What makes the brand stand out? Streetwear style is a vital part of Black culture, with current designs from streetwear designers still taking heavy influence from the originators of the fashion phenomenon. Through the years, brands like Fear of God have tried to make their own footing in the industry, and Jerry Lorenzo bottled that success with his LA-based brand. He grew his brand from the ground up in 2013 and has been praised by Kanye West, Justin Bieber, and Wale (to name a few).
DIARRABLU
- Designer: Diarra Bousso
- Location: Dakar, London, and San Francisco
- Price: $45 - $395
- Offerings: Apparel, accessories, art, and jewelry
- Size(s): XS-3XL
- What makes the brand stand out? True artistry. That’s the best way to describe this brand that centers its designs and materials on the tradition and patterns of African culture. Produced in Dakar, Senegal, Diarrablu focuses on sustainability and inclusivity, with materials sourced from the West African country, and sizes available for straight size and plus sizes.
MAX+min
- Designer: Tiarra Smallwood
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Price: $111 - $320
- Offerings: Bags
- What makes the brand stand out? With the goal of removing the stigma that Black-owned brands can’t be luxury, the Ohio-born Smallwood created MAX+min. The leather goods brand leans into the chic style of structural handbags with the luxe feel of genuine leather, snakeskin, and gold hardware.
Updated by Samantha Sutton and Alexis Gaskin