Black Owned Sustainable and Ethical Brands to Support this Black History Month
February is upon us, and there is a fun and simple way anyone can celebrate Black History Month: shopping and supporting black owned businesses. In addition to being black owned, these businesses are helping to shape a more sustainable and ethical world, which means that your purchase not only supports people of color but also supports a healthier planet. In a world saturated with “stuff”, it has become increasingly important to make your dollars count and find unique products that tell a story. Because is there anything more fun than getting a compliment on a new necklace and being able to share the unique story of exactly where and how it was made?
COURTESY OF OMI WOODS
Omi Woods is a fair trade, ethical jewelry brand created by Ashley Alexis McFarlane that is inspired by her Jamaican-Ashanti-Indigneous-Maroon heritage. The beautiful and ornate jewelry is made of conflict free metals and fair trade African gold. The jewelry is meant to tell a story; it is meant to be passed down through generations; it is meant to be worn with any outfit on any day. With collections inspired by different African regions, such as West Africa, Ancient Egypt, and more, Omi Woods has an ornate and classic piece for everyone. Something about an elegant and meaningful piece of gold jewelry ties any outfit together.
COURTESY OF BROTHER VELLIES
Jewelry and shoes are two components of every outfit that should never be overlooked, and when it comes to shoes, look no further than Brother Vellies. Created by Aurora James in 2013, the company is about more than shoes, it is about celebrating culture and unique personal qualities. The brand even highlights on their website some powerful words: “Sometimes just existing as you are is a revolutionary act.” From clogs to boots to sandals, anyone can make a statement with Brother Vellies’s creative and bold shoes.
COURTESY OF GALERIE.LA
Galerie.LA has created a curated collection of products that are black and indigenous people of color owned, sustainable, and ethical. They carry a variety of brands such as Gracemade and Plante that offer simple and stylish pieces that would make a great addition to any closet. Galerie.LA was founded by Dechel Mckillian, who has a storied background in the entertainment and lifestyle industry; she has dedicated Galerie.LA to make it easier on consumers to find quality products that support great causes.
COURTESY OF TREE FAIRFAX
Embracing imperfections and individual differences is what Tree Fairfax is all about. Every bag, clutch, and tote is handmade, making each a one-of-a-kind item. Additionally, the high quality leather is locally sourced, and the leather imperfections are incorporated into the final products, which helps cut down greatly on waste. The simplistic, lightweight bags are meant to carry your essentials. Instead of weighing you down, Tree Fairfax bags are meant to uplift you. The signature Half Moon Bag can be used as a clutch or with the size inclusive strap to become a crossbody. Tree Fairfax showcases flaws that turn into beautiful and unique products.
Adding to your closet shouldn’t be a chore nor should it be meaningless; these quality brands offer products that you will be proud to wear, show off, and share with others.