In a month celebrating Black Excellence, theGrio has six suggestions for Black-Owned Brands to shop in February and beyond.
Black-owned businesses are thriving, taking the culture to the next level. During Black History Month, we can share our representation and pride in our roots through our clothing, jewelry and art. While there are many Black and Brown businesses to support, this year theGrio chose to share a select few that offer clothing that exemplifies Black excellence, history and culture throughout the year. With that in mind, here’s a selection of some of our favorite brands that will be proud to rock this Black History Month and beyond.
Melaninful celebrates Black culture and history through its unique designs of clothing, home decor and accessories. It’s been over 3 years since this collective of designers came together with a mission to serve their communities while expressing black pride. In the years since, the Melaninful brand has continued to educate consumers and supporters via their blog, with posts ranging from education to Afrocentric clothing to Black-owned restaurants to support them, delving deep into our story, and more. In short, their website gives you an extra dose of “We cheer for all black people!”
Kashmir Thompson announces her presence with Kashmirviii to the world. The artist has already made waves with her pop culture-inspired paintings that celebrate the best of black culture, old and new; As she continues to explode on social media, so does the appeal of her work. Her creations have caught the attention of Angela Bassett, Issa Rae, Spike Lee, Tisha Campbell and others. A graduate of the Cleveland School of the Arts, Thompson’s mission is to inspire others and take her brand to the world. What better way to express the Black Pride aesthetic in your home or apartment than with a signature Kashmirviii artwork?
Founded in 2015 by Rita Bunatal, Malaika Collective is a pan-African lifestyle brand. “We founded Malaika Collective to foster a multicultural home for blacks and browns from all parts of the African diaspora and allies alike,” reads its mission statement. With unique patterns and fabrics, the Ghanaian and Kenyan heritage brand continues to deliver fashion with a rich message about our heritage. For Black History Month, his collection of printed silk scarves is the perfect addition to any festive attire. But well beyond February, Malaika Collective affirms the celebration of our ancestors and motherland throughout the year.
My Pride Apparel is a brand that empowers black women who want to both speak boldly and show pride without saying a word. The brand’s extensive selection includes t-shirts, crop tops, mugs, hats and hoodies with messages and designs ranging from trendy sayings to historical values. With witty and fun sayings like “I’m black mixed with black” you can proudly walk into any room knowing you’re making a statement. Whether you are shopping for a gift for a friend or looking for one for yourself, you are sure to fall in love with the My Pride Apparel brand.
Black history meets classic yet modern fashion at Brooklyn Circus. The vintage-inspired menswear brand continues to produce innovative fashion that has a cultural and global impact. In celebration of Black History Month, The Brooklyn Circus is releasing its latest varsity jacket, dubbed The Black Panther. A bold piece, rich in history and “inspired by the US Army’s tank battalion The Black Panthers during World War II,” the black and gold topper is a tribute complete with a classic black panther slinging fiercely on its back is centered. The story doesn’t stop there; The limited-edition jacket also commemorates the 16th anniversary of Brooklyn Circus and is scheduled for release on February 18th.
Melanin Apparel is a one stop shop for all things Black Pride! With a mission to make our communities proud, Melanin Apparel keeps its word through a range of apparel, accessories and home decor. A brand with no shortage of black pop culture references, quotes and beautiful melanized images that don’t miss a beat. Both Schwarz-owned and Melanin-led, Melanin Apparel should be at the top of your shopping list this month!
Keasya Hudgins
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The post It’s Black History Month – what are you wearing to celebrate? appeared first on TheGrio.
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