FIRST, SPILL THE TEA
I skipped last week’s issue because I was out peacefully protesting and educating myself on actions I can take to support #BLM. I probably could have sent an email with a big black square, but that felt performative, a bit callous, and unhelpful.
Thus, I’m dedicating today’s newsletter to some of my favorite African-American and African designer founded brands with which you may not be familiar. Raising awareness of them feels like something, in the spirit of equality and inclusion.
I’m hoping the events of the last few weeks fuel real change in the world. Don’t give up the fight.
MEET AND GREET
There’s a lot more black design talent and creativity out there besides Kanye and Virgil Abloh. Here are some favorites for fits on fire.
BROTHER VELLIES
Aurora James is the genius who founded this accessories brand which has super cool, innovative designs. Products are handcrafted in South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Morocco. Much of it is sustainably made; both pieces below are made from Springbok hair (there’s an overpopulation of Springboks).
Pics via brother vellies.
DURO OLOWU
Nigerian-Briton lawyer turned designer Duro Olowu’s ability to mix prints is unmatched. His clothes are cut to be very flattering and are a big hit with the art crowd. Want to turn heads? This is how.
HOPE FOR FLOWERS
Tracy Reese is popular and successful having founded her namesake brand in the 90s. She’s now founded a new brand, Hope for Flowers, where she focuses on sustainability, diversity and collaborates with local artists from her native state of Michigan (I never miss a chance to extoll the virtues of the midwest). I also love the diversity of models she chooses. Sadly not the norm yet everywhere.
I hope that was helpful and inspiring. As you click on the links, you’ll see that there’s overall more diversity featured in these brands’ creative. It feels inclusive and genuine. All positive steps towards change we’d like more designers to take.
Feel free to share the love and I will talk to you guys next week!
XO,
S