The fight to dismantle systemic racism is ever-present. As protests against racial injustice and police brutality continue, it is important to note that there are multiple ways that you can be an ally to the Black community. Not only should you protest and donate to anti-racism organizations, but you should be spending your money on Black-owned businesses. Part of committing to the fight for equality means that supporting people of color should be ingrained into everyday life, and in this consumer driven society, shopping from Black-owned businesses is a direct way that we as consumers can support and uplift the Black community, not just today but always.

If you aren’t sure where to start, here are just a few brands that I have come across--they deserve your attention (and money) all day every day, 365 days a year. Please let me know of any and all other brands and businesses to support and shop from!

1. Asata Maisé

From bags to skirt sets to bucket hats, Asata Maisé’s line of pieces made from vintage fabrics, in an array of colors and patchwork, are truly unique. A one-woman business, her creative process displays fashion as art to the highest degree.

Shop here: https://www.asatamaise.com/

2. KRWND

Image courtesy of @iamkrwnd — *Image courtesy of* *@iamkrwnd*

KRWND, pronounced “crowned,” offers more than just classic gold jewelry; the brand specializes in custom jewelry that has been worn by celebrities such as Ayesha Curry, Saweetie, and Ari Lennox. Customizations range from engravement to one-of-a-kind pieces handcrafted from any 2D design of your choice--any font, handwriting, language, symbol, or logo can be used for a uniquely personal touch.

Shop here: https://www.iamkrwnd.com/

3. JADE Swim

Image courtesy of @jadeswim — *Image courtesy of* *@jadeswim*

From former fashion editor and stylist Brittany Kozerski comes JADE Swim, a line of sustainable swimwear that can be worn from day to night. Minimalistic silhouettes with details like strappy backs and ribbed texture make these suits easy to wear to the beach or with a pair of culottes and heels to dinner.

Shop here: https://jadeswim.com/

4. Come Back as a Flower

Image courtesy of @comebackasaflower — *Image courtesy of* *@comebackasaflower*

Worn by stars such as rappers Big Sean, A$AP Rocky, and model Imaan Hammam, Come Back as a Flower, or CBAAF, makes the coolest tie-dyed pieces in not-your-average tie-dye colors. Hand-dyed and ethically produced with 100% recycled cotton, the brand offers tees, shorts, and sets in beautiful earthy tones. CBAAF also drops vintage tees that often sell out, so keep your eye out!

Shop here: https://www.cbaaf.org/

5. MIITRA

Image courtesy of @miitraofficial — *Image courtesy of* *@miitraofficial*

While these silk scarves are objectively beautiful, what makes MIITRA stand out is that each scarf bears a meaningful message so you can truly wear your values. All three designs, the Proverbs Scarf, the Dawn Scarf, and the Liberation Scarf, are meant to strengthen you, encourage you, and uplift you in the most fashionable way. Bonus is that these scarves can be styled in an infinite amount of ways.

Shop here: https://miitra-studio.com/

6. JeBlanc

Image courtesy of @jeblancisalive — *Image courtesy of* *@jeblancisalive*

To wear a piece from Jeniece Blanchet’s jewelry line, JeBlanc, is to wear art. Not only is the collection some of the most original and stand-out jewelry you will ever find, but most of the pieces can be worn in multiple ways: as a necklace, as a body chain, as a belt. Patiently waiting for the Mixed Metal Twisted Hoops to come back into stock.

Shop here: https://www.jeblanc.com/

7. Lionne

Image courtesy of @lionneclothing — *Image courtesy of* *@lionneclothing*

Flirty, elegant, edgy, sophisticated, Lionne has it all and then some. The brand’s newest collection, “Royal Blood,” features pieces all named after African queens, and are sure to make you feel like a queen! Launched in only 2018, Lionne has quickly become a celeb favorite, worn by Draya Michele, Normani, and Ari Lennox to name a few.

Shop here: https://lionneclothing.com/

8. Humans Before Handles

Image courtesy of @humansbeforehandles — *Image courtesy of* *@humansbeforehandles*

Obsessed with every single one of Humans Before Handles’ statement accessories. From all types of jewelry to hair accessories, this brand has the cutest stand-out pieces at affordable prices. Current favorite is the “Fly Above it All” butterfly earrings.

Shop here: https://www.humansbeforehandles.com/

9. ALIÉTTE

Image courtesy of @alietteny — *Image courtesy of* *@alietteny*

With stand-out neons and variegated prints, stylist turned designer Jason Rembert’s line, ALIÉTTE, is to die for. Inspired by and named after Rembert’s late mother, ALIÉTTE is sweet, colorful, and feminine with a touch of edge to symbolize both strength and grace. Debuted on the runway in February 2019, ALIÉTTE already has famous fans like Issa Rae and Zendaya, and was even styled on Keke Palmer for the cover of Cosmopolitan.

Shop here: https://alietteny.com/

1o. Sunlight Muse

Image courtesy of @sunlightmuse — *Image courtesy of* *@sunlightmuse*

Featuring upcycled plastic, this swimwear brand will turn you into your own muse. The combination of Sunlight Muse’s take on trends like high-waisted bottoms with the plastic jelly detailing sets the brand apart, and the suits come in the cutest colors. But probably the cutest thing of all about Sunlight Muse is that they also have a matching girls line, so you and any little you know can twin.

Shop here: https://www.sunlightmuse.com/

11. Dreamy Beads

Image courtesy of @thedreamybeads — *Image courtesy of* *@thedreamybeads*

This beautiful collection of handmade waistbeads, bracelets, and anklets come in an assortment of beads and charms and are also available for customization! Not only will any of these pieces earn you compliments, but your spiritual needs will be covered by evil eye beads, hamsa hand charms, and the traditionally healing nature of waistbeads.

Shop via Instagram: @thedreamybeads

Black-Owned Brands You Need to Know About