If you don’t know, get to know

The Black Lives Matter movement is here to stay. In committing to creating change and igniting action, we need long-term solutions as well as long-term loyalties to bridge the gap of inequality. As a fashion, culture and art magazine, one way we hope to do this is by supporting black-owned fashion brands, artists, musicians and creatives. 21% of black-owned businesses felt they would not survive the Covid-19 crisis, so let’s create that change, support the businesses that have been socially side-lined and invest in the creativity of the black community. Below we have created a selection of black-owned fashion houses which we love! Have a gander and support where you can…  

The Nigerian-British designer, Mowalola Ogunlesi, has been making noise in the fashion scene for some time now. Creating bold clothing with the intent to astound; leather, PVC and cut-out silhouettes are ever-present and hard to miss. This power-house of fashion will forever be bringing something new to the table, creating clothes we love that forever linger on the mind. 

With a slogan like, ‘It’s not for you-its for everyone’ Telfar opens our hearts. The unisex brand was established in New York back in 2005 by Queens-born designer Telfar Clemens and has consistently made waves in the industry. It was the ‘Bushwick Birkin’ which accelerated the designer’s success, but the influx of inspiration which kept him up there! If you’re coming in purse first, this is the one to carry! 

Brookly-born Chelsea Bravo truly brings influences from across the globe. After moving to London at just age two with her Trinidadian Father and Grenadian mother, Chelsea’s eye for fashion was set by the age of 8. Using creativity as the key, self-expression is her tool and her personality emulates through her work. For thoughtful,  simplistic and unique pieces- Bravo is your gal’. 

Meaning ‘Little Courage’ in Haitian Creole, Petite Kouraj is the creation of fashion stylist, Nasrin Jean-Baptiste. Born in London to Haitian Parents, Nasrin certainly knows fashion. Having worked in the industry for over a decade, Petite Kouraj was a treasure in-waiting. Producing luxury bags with a whole lotta heart, prepare to be sucked into some summer time loveliness. 

Our love for the Amsterdam-based fashion brand, Daily Paper, has never been a secret! Established in 2012 and inspired by the founder’s African heritage, the company has continuously amplified its designs year by year to the trailblazers they are today. For ready-to-wear street style, with unique prints, bold colours and patterns, Daily Paper is the place for you.

L’Enchanteur is a hub of inspiration. Founded by identical twins Dynasty and Soull Ogun, the brand encapsulates the ‘mythology, magic and fairy tales’ of the world around us.  The brand elevates its pieces, bringing an element of timelessness and spirituality to every design. L’Enchanteur wants you to ‘Transform Your Lifestyle’, in if there’s anywhere to start it’s here. 

FENTY quickly became a household name after Rihanna launched the brand in 2017. Looking towards a worldwide community, FENTY regards freedom, defiance and culture as their core values. Alongside a beautiful stretch of luxury fashion, the brand accommodates all as it forefronts inclusivity in the fashion world. FENTY has a clear brand-identity with its recognisable silhouettes, tones and materials which have us all gagging’ to be seen in. 

Hanifa is the essence of contemporary design. Bringing ready-to-wear clothes to ‘Women Without Limits’, the collections scream Parisian chic. Carrying sizes from 0-20, no one is left behind as curves are considered and colours kept in mind. The brand has been a hot topic for a while now, but there’s always time to peruse gorgeousness! 

Established in London in 2007, Martine Rose has been evolving her brand ever since. Capturing authenticity and modernity at its finest Rose’s lines has consequently achieved global success. The designer took part in the 2019 Get Up, Stand Up Now exhibition, celebrating 50 years of Black British creatives and has since been on a hefty list of awards. Transforming the London-look with her brand, it’s hard not to obsess over every piece she has in store. 

Building on London street culture and Britains working-class, A-COLD-WALL* brought a breath of fresh air with its inception in 2015. Its founder, Samuel Ross, is a true multi-disciplinarian as illustration and graphic design often play a role in his clothing. Unconventional tailoring, handcrafted tee’s and logo’s galore, A-COLD-WALL* displays it all.