It’s challenging to find any positivity this summer, with protests across the world calling out systematic racism and police brutality. But fashion, despite roadblocks for black people in that industry, is a beacon of light. In many ways, it is one way to help make a difference. With that in mind, here are ten black-owned fashion brands having an impact in the fashion world. It was tough boiling the list down to ten, so there will no doubt be a Part 2 to this. These are all worth both your time and your money.
Norwegian Rain
Can rain and fashion go hand-in-hand? That’s a tough question to answer. However this Bergen-based brand understands our deep frustration. From what we can see, they have found a solution. We have no doubt you will agree – these 100% waterproof garments will hit a sweet sartorial spot.
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What’s more, these well-tailored pieces are all about sustainability. Each garment is made from recycled materials. And that makes them one-of-a-kind pieces you’ll cherish for many rainy years.
A. Sauvage
The fashion sophisticates among us know that off-the-rack can never compete with made-to-measure tailoring. There’s just no comparison. Adrien Sauvage caters to personal appointments, only in Los Angeles and London. There is a reason for that. Understated luxury is how Sauvage has built his reputation. The designers brings an effortless approach to contemporary menswear. He is definitely one you need to check out.
Black-owned fashion brands: A-Cold-Wall*
A favourite of Drake, this London-based fashion brand is the brainchild of Samuel Ross. He is a former protégé of Virgil Abloh (the creative director at Off-White). Are you someone whose first preference is athleisure for every occasion? Then you’ll enjoy the line of work-ready tailored pieces made using sportswear fabrics.
Carrots by Anwar Carrots
Founded by Anwar Carrots, this designer’s eponymous label is a shout out to the vibrant street culture of Los Angeles. Wardrobe staples like relaxed hoodies, comfy shorts and the trusted sneakers are his fashion markers. Carrots’ most recent collaboration is with Swedish sneaker brand Alex Arigato. The duo have reworked a range of hoodies, sweatpants, T-shirts and sneakers.
Pyer Moss
This is a brand founded by American-Haitian fashion designer Kerby Jean-Raymond. One area that separates Pyer Moss from all others is its politically-driven messages. These are thought-provoking designs that really show off Black American culture and experience through geometrical shapes and lines.
Spencer Badu
Toronto-based fashion designer Spencer Badu believes in transparency and hard work. And both these qualities are seamlessly transferred into his genderless designs. That’s how he has made a mark. Minimal in style and futuristic in appeal, Badu’s designs will effortlessly elevate your everyday look.
Black-owned fashion brands: Just Don
Don C’s modern take on sportswear styles has become a favourite with NBA players. And NBAers are the most fashion savvy among all the pro sports athletes. Don C’s line ranges from high-top sneakers and baseball caps to shorts and sweatshirts. Check it out – there’s something here for everyone.
Billionaire Boys Club
Known for its Spaceman logo, and co-founded by Pharrell Williams, this fashion label blends streetwear with luxury. We love their motto: “Wealth is of the heart and mind, not the pocket.” We couldn’t agree more. Check out their collection of jackets, hoodies, T-shirts, pants and accessories, which best showcase the brand’s high quality.
Telfar
Designer Telfar Clemens, based in New York, is successfully pushing gender norms with his eponymous label. Clemens designs T-shirts, trousers, sweatshirts, pants and even accessories, which includes the bestselling “Bushwick Birkin” vegan tote bags.
Black-owned fashion brands: Wales Bonner
Grace Wales Bonner’s objective was to start a label that blended both European and Afro-Atlantic elements. Well, she accomplished that. Lately, the designer has also collaborated with Dior’s creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri for their resort 2020 collection. From outerwear and trousers to accessories, Bonner’s line presents a structured, tailored look. She is another designer to keep an eye on.
TOP IMAGE: NORWEGIAN RAIN, INSTAGRAM @NORWEGIANRAIN
Shweta Gandhi is a fashion and lifestyle journalist based in Toronto. She has covered fashion and sustainability extensively for Vogue India and ELLE India, attending international fashion weeks from the front row.
She has interviewed innumerable designers and celebrities including Maria Grazia Chiuri, Tamara Ralph, Nick Bateman, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Manish Malhotra, Ranveer Singh among others. In her free time, she writes on new-age spirituality on her website svetarotreading.com.
