In recent weeks, the world has been taking strides to incorporate greater diversity and inclusion amid the Black Lives Matter movement, and the fashion and beauty industries are no exception. Several black-owned businesses have recently come into the spotlight, and it’s important now, more than ever, to show support: making a purchase from one of these companies (or even sharing their site on your social media channels) helps close the racial wealth gap as well as strengthen the local economy. “When you support black-owned businesses, you’re supporting a group of people who are repeatedly looked over due to covert racism and many other factors. On top of that, you‘re showing them that they really do matter and deserve to be represented on all levels and in all fields,” says fashion designer and Project Runway: Junior alumni Hawwaa Ibrahim. It’s important to note, however, that although these labels represent black skin tones, they also incorporate a wide range of additional ethnicities; just because a company is “black-owned” does not mean that it‘s resigned to a single race. “I’m just a business owner that happens to live in my chocolate skin,” asserts Victoria Wreen, owner of mobile nail service Nailed By Victoria. “Supporting black-owned businesses has often been ignored, yet it has been important since the beginning of entrepreneurship times. These times are no different!” In between signing petitions and submitting donations, scroll through one of the following six brands who have made their mark—by showing your spirit for black culture, you’re amplifying voices that need and deserve to be heard. 

Brother Vellies

The luxury fashion brand has celebrated traditional African designs since its establishment in 2013, all while creating more opportunities for artisanal jobs. Brother Vellies’ accessories are handmade across the globe, with materials ranging from vegetable-tanned leathers to floral-dyed feathers to soling from recycled tires. 


because

This colorful collection, handmade by Ibrahim, is unapologetically bold. Playful pieces include frosted animal cracker hair clips, an ABC blocks face mask and a crayon t-shirt featuring several different shades.


Amenda Beauty

Founded by master esthetician and brow expert Sandra Morgan, the company strives to produce cleaner, more effective skincare. Each product is plant-based, mode of organic and botanical ingredients, as well as cruelty-free and without parabens. 


Swanky Designs

The company’s lineup of custom, handmade designs spotlights brass, clay and tribal-themed accessories. Home and apparel collections are sold as well, featuring novelty mugs, graphic tees, bold pillows and more. 


Pear Nova

The line’s vegan, cruelty-free nail polishes come in a variety of fun hues, including Dianna Boss, Kissu Miss You and Feelin’ My Tiger Stripes. Not to mention, Pear Nova’s products are 5-free as well, manufactured sans formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. 


PRETTYKULTURE

Hand-selected pieces are sold at this affordable boutique, which caters to women with curves. The company specializes in mini dresses, crop tops, matching dresses and more. 

Additional reporting by Jamie Taylor.