The push for more diversity in the beauty and fashion industry has been rejoiced by people of all colours and a lot of POC felt their shades weren’t included in mainstream make-up corporations.
The year 2017 addressed how a lot of people felt they were not taken in to account when brands, such as Tarte, released new foundations and concealers. Rhianna’s Fenty Beauty truly paved the way for an all-inclusive range for ALL skin types and tones. Many people felt she truly knew how to cater to POC as she understands the struggle of not being streetwear to. Fenty showed big brands how to include everyone and not make any colour an afterthought but to truly celebrate all the diverse tones there are.
In lieu of black history month and the massive success of Fenty, I’d like to share with you all some other amazing black-owned brands which are made by POC, for POC and includes everyone in between.
Makeup
Beauty Bakerie
Cruelty-free and founded by an inspiring woman who beat breast cancer and started her own beauty brand, this article wouldn’t have been right without Beauty Bakerie on this list. The month of October is not just Black History Month but it is also breast cancer awareness month and given the brand’s story it was perfect to promote this brand and bring some more coverage of her brand to the UK and the students at GCU. Every product in this brand follows the theme of baking and cakes and the detail which goes into every product and the packaging demands not to be overlooked. With 30 shades of her hydrating demi-matte foundation, and three – yes, THREE – shades of her ‘flour’ setting powder, this brand is killing the makeup game with her diverse range and unreal packaging. This brand is a must buy for anyone who loves cute packaging and a good range of products.
Shop the brand here: Beauty Bakerie
Nice Nails Baby
This Nail Shop based in Clapham Junction, London offers a premium nail and beauty service at a great price of just £30 for a full set of acrylics done the healthiest way for your nails (without a drill). The shop is run by Michelle who has been a beauty technician for 18 years. This is a great place to go if you’re having a trip to London and need great nail designs at a student friendly price!
Shop the brand here: Nice Nails Baby
Women’s Fashion:
Yemacaliff
I was truly blown away when I discovered this brand, not just for the wearable and fun athletic wear created by the founders, but also for how much they give back. The amazing founders set up scholarships for students in Kibera, Kenya to help support them through education. Using vibrant colours and ethical materials, the brand sells athletic pieces for both men and women with some of their profits going towards the scholarships.
Shop the brand here: YemaCalif
Tribal Twist Clothing
According to the brand: ‘Twisting the Tribal’ has been the main aim of the line, which is where the name originated. Kamau (the founder) saw a need in the market for ‘tribally modernised’ clothing and for easy access to it. She aims to empower through her clothing with bold prints which are known to boost the mood and unconventional designs to make each person feel special. The pieces she sells are all unique, vibrant and reminiscent of her hometown of Nairobi. Amazing for anyone wanting a unique and colourful piece with a whole lot of culture.
Shop the brand here: Trbal Twist Clothing
Men’s Fashion
FUBU
Shop the brand here: FUBU
Lynch and Mason
“Lynch & Mason encapsulates the sophisticated modern gentleman. Made In Britain with subtle classic designs and luxury fabrics, Lynch & Mason was created to meet the demands of the tall.”
This suit company sells tailored suits for men and caters to tall men in the process – which is rare when it comes to a suit company. With classic dapper styles and a suit for everyone, this place is perfect for special occasions. The price tag doesn’t fit the student budget but for graduation and grad ball and any special occasion which a proper suit is needed for then, this place is the go to for a formal look.
Shop the brand here: Lynch and Mason
(Disclaimer: All photographs belong to their respected brands)
