11 Must-Have Holiday Gifts from Black-Owned Fashion Brands
If you are looking for some truly special holiday gifts, you've come to the right place. Fashion is ever-evolving, which means there is always room for more diversity within the industry — so it is a good thing that we have the internet to lead us to fresh, new, and exciting talent.
This year, we saw a deep appreciation for knitwork and detailed embellishments. Rachel Scott's Diotima, who won the CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year, and Bernard James Jewelry, who's appeared in several editorials, are experts in both techniques.
On the runways, there were bold statements on formalwear from Who Decides War and nostalgic odes to Africa from Tolu Coker. And when we weren't lusting for the newest Telfar drop, brands like Brandon Blackwood and AAKS kept their loyal base happy with classic, timeless pieces.
As the year comes to a close and we celebrate the holidays by gift-giving, consider supporting Black-owned brands. We know shopping for clothing is tricky, so below, we've rounded up perfect accessories and statement pieces that will make for perfect holiday gifts from brands that will bring more than just cheer.
Our Top Picks
- Best Accessory Under $30: Ahluwalia AW23 "Symphony" Notebook, $28
- Best Gift for Boyfriend: Daily Paper Black Niu Bucket Hat, $90
- Best Gift for Best Friend: Elisa Johnson Jane Sunglasses, $140
- Best Beauty Deal: Range Beauty Bali Face & Body Glo, $25
- Best Splurge for Yourself: Elexiay Lagos Dress, $295
If you plan on gifting someone who lives in a major city, the likelihood that they'll have a Metro pass is high. And if they're going to have to deal with the monotony of public transpiration, why not do it in style? Brandon Blackwood's bamboo card holder has all the right slots for a person on the go.
Alicia Scott started Range Beauty as a way to wear makeup without the fear of her eczema reacting. Years later, she's created a successful brand of foundations, primers, and body glows geared towards melanin-rick skin. We love her Bali face and body glow oil to combat the winter blues.
For years, Elisa Johnson has been passionate about eyewear that makes a statement, and these retro sunglasses, aptly named after Jane Fonda, are their own person. Gift this to a friend who loves art, chill Sundays, and lo-fi work sessions in their Bushwick studio.
If you have a friend who loves jewelry and keeps up with the hottest brands, they're going to adore this piece from Bernard James. This silver ear cuff adds instant, subtle edginess but is extremely refined. It's also available in two widths: micro and macro, depending on size needs.
Inevitably, you're going to buy something for yourself this holiday season. (We all do it.) If you're in the market for an LBD — particularly one you can re-wear on multiple occasions and look amazing — we point you in the direction of Elexiay's Lagos Dress that holds at the top and flares at the bottom.
