Fuck Gucci. Bye Burberry. Forget Prada. Support Black Owned Businesses Instead.

For too long, brands like these have been capitalizing off of racist attitudes and actions. Today’s conscious shopper must move past these oppressive brands and support those who deserve it. 

We rise together by lifting others • Over the past week it’s been incredible to witness how much change we can bring by combining our voices to amplify messages and that we can use this same technique to support brands that are aligned with ethical ways. 

While on my explore page on Instagram, I came across these beautiful planters made with raw materials by @talandbert • I went on her website just to discover that because of the recent attention by media, celebrities, and influencers that this small Black owned business received so many orders that they stopped taking them temporarily to focus on fulfilling these until end of June (when they’ll take new orders). Now this is what I call positive influence. At a time when so many are struggling to keep their small businesses going, we must support each other instead of corporations that don’t care about us.

In light of all this, here are a few more Black owned businesses that I wanted to shine a light on to support with our hard-earned dollars:

• Brother Vellies – Designed in Brooklyn, @brothervellies supports handcrafted sustainability with artisans spanning Nairobi to New York. Their collection of shoes are goals. Brother Vellies creates luxury accessories that celebrate cultural histories and timeless design. 

• Sparkles and Vintage – I believe florals are the centerpieces to any good event and can brighten up any room for any occasion. Check out LA based artist @sparklesandvintage for her beautiful floral and event design co. 

• Nyla Rei –  Beautiful, stylish, comfortable looking loungewear and more by @nyla.rei that is just perfect for right now • Nyla Rei can be translated into “beautiful winner”, and founder Vanessa pours her heart into this through her designs. 

• Public School NYC – It’s paramount to the @PublicSchoolnyc brand DNA that it keeps its production roots in New York, supporting local tailors, pattern makers, and skilled garment workers. It is these genuine and personal experiences throughout the development process along with their design mantra “finding perfection in imperfection,” that epitomize the brand and its commitment to creating high-quality clothing. I love that they collaborate with like-minded brands to push a positive message. 

As the rest of the world joins Americans in protest, let’s not forget some international brands that share our values.

• studio.nom – These geometric wall hangings by @studio.nom • not only is this a staple piece in any room, but geometrical designs have significant meaning, dating back to ancient times. Based in the Netherlands, the owner, Nom, was born in Swaziland. 

• Sacko – Hand dyed and second hand garments by @shopsacko using 100% natural plant extracts resulting in textiles that are natural, sustainable, and non toxic to us and the environment. I adore the natural colors she’s able to extract from nature as well as the pieces ranging from babies to adults. She even makes accessories, like giant silk scrunchies that I need to add to my cart. 

For more incredible black owned businesses, see this list here created by Jamia Johnson.