10 Fashion Labels Led By Black Women

By Nandi Howard ·March 11, 2021March 11, 2021

There’s arguably nothing like adding a new piece of clothing to you wardrobe, and it’s even better when its Black owned. Within the past year, we’ve collectively seen Black owned brands in fashion along with emerging designers become a high priority in the industry. While past years may have left designers of colors underrepresented and underfunded, there is an evolving mandate that is allowing Black owned brands to get the rightful recognition.

For women’s history month, ESSENCE is rounding up 10 fashion labels spearheaded by Black women. In hopes that the fashion industry will expand its reach, there is currently a small group of designers that are Black women. During NYFW in February 2020, only 3 Black women ; Tia Adeola, Fe Noel, and Serena Williams presented collections that week, in comparison to full lineup with over 60 runway shows on the schedule.

As the industry continues to evolve, we are catching more and more brands spearheaded by Black women being projected into mainstream shopping. From Brother Vellies to Stella Jean, here’s a few designers to celebrate for Women’s History Month.

EDAS

Founder: Sade Mims

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Brother Vellies

Founder: Aurora James

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Fe Noel

Founder: Felisha Noel

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