From streetwear to luxury sneakers and everything in between, the impact of Black culture, style and designs is heavy in modern-day fashion. While you might admire the fitted tee or leather sandals your favorite celeb is rocking, how often do you know the brand? Perhaps it’ll come as a surprise that many of the hottest labels seen on the runway at Fashion Week and in the closets of fashionable public figures are indeed Black-owned. Whether you’re on the market for your next leather rucksack or an oversized bomber jacket that is still stylish enough to top over your fit, these brands have something for you. ONE37pm takes pride in honoring diversity and inclusivity, especially in the fashion space, so here are eight of our favorite Black-owned designers to complete your look.
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1. Pyer Moss
Founded in 2013 by Kerby Jean-Raymond, Pyer Moss is one the most popular and sought after Black-owned fashion brands. Produced in New York City, Italy and Portugal, the brand is not only known for its highly fashionable rapport but also its socially progressive and culturally impactful shows. Blending storytelling, activism and debate with immaculate and eye-catching designs, Pyer Moss has turned clothing into a social movement, earning the likes of many celebrities like Odell Beckham Jr., Swizz Beatz and even Michelle Obama. Recently pairing with the popular shoe brand Reebok in “Reebok by Pyer Moss,” along with a collection of other one-of-a-kind pieces, Pyer Moss items are often exclusively limited, so cop them while you can.
2. Telfar
Established in 2005, Telfar is a fashion bag brand best known for its signature unisex overside shopping tote. Telfar Clemens, a self-taught designer, took the fashion world by storm with his Black queer presence and genderless collections. Often referred to as the Bushwick Birken, the Telfar bag has been spotted on the shoulders of prestigious public figures like Solange, A$AP Ferg and Ashton Sanders. It’s available in ten colors, three sizes and the price ranges from $150 to $257. You’ll want to grab one of these often-sold-out totes for your everyday needs.
3. Wales Bonner
Founded in 2014 by designer Grace Wales Bonner, Wales Bonner first debuted as a menswear brand, but soon extended to womenswear upon the launch. Four years later, the company collaborated with Dior in the production of the luxury brand’s New Look silhouette for the Resort 2020 collection and additionally was awarded the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund. Specializing in outerwear and knitwear for the casual yet stylish individual, Wales Bonner offers British-inspired modern pieces for a fashionable everyday look.
4. Fear of God
Founded by Jerry Lorenzo in 2013, Fear of God is a luxury streetwear brand often compared to Yeezy and Supreme. For a hefty price, shoppers can buy fashionable clothing made of various materials, sometimes repurposed vintage and other times, high-end fabrics from Japan and Italy. The clothing style is very minimalistic and modern, yet pockets the same clout of wearing a plain white Acne Studios tee. Through the layering of clothing, the line grows more and more fashionable with each addition to your outfit, and with a whopping 1.7 million Instagram followers, there is no doubt this company is recognized as a top label.
5. Armando Cabral
Founded by Portugal-raised creative director and ex-model Armando Cabral, Armando Cabral is a luxury footwear and accessories brand based in New York City. With elegance and high-performance as a design mission, Armando Cabral produces shoes and products that are sophisticated in style but accessible and functional for everyday wear. Whether you’re searching for your next business loafer or casual sandal, Armando Cabral is sure to have something of your liking.
6. Lemlem
Headed by Ethiopian-born supermodel Liya Kebede, Lemlem is an artisan clothing and home goods brand for women, men and children. All products are made across Africa, while the core collection is handwoven from natural cotton in Ethiopia. Additionally, the company values women’s artistry and empowerment and supports its artisans through the Lemlem Foundation, a resource for health care, education and jobs for women. From rompers to shoes, Lemlem products are moderately priced and offer something for everyone’s style needs.
7. Andrea Iyamah
Andrea Iyamah is a chic clothing brand located in Ontario, Canada, founded by Nigerian fashion designer Dumebi Iyamah. Iyamah, a self-taught artist, puts vibrant color and varying African cultures at the forefront of the brand’s style. The opulent line is most popular for unique and retro swimwear and also specializes in ready-to-wear and custom-made special event dresses. Whether you’re in the market for a new edgy swimsuit or a head-turning outfit, Andrea Iyamah will not disappoint.
8. Mifland
Founded by Tobi Egberongbe, Mifland is a mixed-accessory leather goods company based in Atlanta. The high-end leather brand, which is highly popular among NBA players, is responsible for one-third of the organization’s rucksacks. The company’s products are unisex and range from everyday wear to business casual and maintain a rapport of no zippers. Mifland is a Black-owned leather brand perfect for your next tote, rucksack or passbook purchase that takes pride in its durability, ruggedness and uniquely handmade assembly, along with form and function as their design structure.
