Supporting Black-owned business is a way for you to support small businesses and women of color. It’s one way to put money back into the community’s pockets. So let’s go, shoppers! It’s time to put your money where your mouth is … or on your fingers … shoes … shoulders — you get the point! I found Amani Ya Juu on a recent trip to Nairobi. Yep, I’m that bish. But hear me out: AYJ has got beautiful things (just look at their baby toys!) and a beautiful message. Many of the craftswomen have escaped domestic violence, and their profits go back to maintaining their shelter! Amani Ya Juu provides safe employment and a community away from their abusers. GRL TRBL gets it. And they’re not curtailing their messages to spare white feminist feelings. Their pins are hilarious and full of messages fighting transphobia, ableism, sexism, racism, and misogyny. Did I mention classism? Cuz they’re doing that too. You too? Great! Because our girls at Urban Heirlooms appreciate a good statement piece. Check out this impeccably curated Etsy store, and get ready to spend ALL your money. Buuuuuut her jewelry, which I’m supposed to be talking about, is also gorgeous. Chic and understated, it’s perfect for layering. You can go with a draped open necklace arrangement or keep it simple. Her online store is easy to shop, elegant, and overall stunning. The Instagram account is sort of a must-follow. Heavily featured are stunning African-print dresses and head scarves that are so vibrant and sexy that I feel like I have to give them all of my money immediately. Will I do just that? Probably. Will I feel good about it? Yes. Will I look amazing? Definitely. Bracelets and necklaces ride the fine line of mystical goddess and sophisticated hippie, all beautifully made, all priced reasonably for such gorgeous designs. It’s the dream. But also, I do. Just look at that soft leather bucket bag! Love Cortnie specializes in colorful leather handbags and clutches that are very chic. I want nothing else in this world than to be known as a chic old lady. And I’ve got the second part down. But this isn’t about me! This is about the bags! Their items are adorable, hilarious, and Black-owned — the defense rests. Llulo’s items are made in Nigeria — the home country of creator Michelle Olomojobi — by a small team of hand-selected craftsmen. This is bespoke on a whole ’nother level. And everything they make is CUTE. How are your designs so dang adorable and — happy day — you love stickers too? I’m tickled pink by this brand BIG TIME. Get on Etsy and check it out for yourself. Also, the website is … great! The prices are totally affordable, and the pieces are incredible. Plus, there are online sales all the time. It’s amazing. She’s giving me … Powerpuff Girl technicolor realness. She’s giving me …empowered Black woman who doesn’t have to fit your “stereotypes” of Black girl fashion tropes. Thank you, sis @kashmirviii. What’s really fun about this brand is that its sister brand, Effie’s Paper, is equally as fun and caters to your stationery and planner needs. So these are brands for your work life AND your play life. Nice. Please check both out @effiespaper and @flygirltravel. Second at bat, cute stuff. And lots of it. They’ve got bath mats. They’ve got party packs. They’ve got shower curtains. I could go on, but I’d rather you just check out this indie brand! Their website is awfully cute. However, even I am losing it over Loza Tam’s exquisite turbans. They’re satin-lined as to not disturb your hairs on your head, which I thoroughly appreciate. They’re artistically draped and folded. And They. Are. Stunning.
