Support Black-Owned Businesses: Part I
The murder of George Floyd has set off a chain of events that have caused many aspects of Black life in America to be more closely examined. Companies have been posting messages in support of Black lives and making donations to Black causes, racist statues are being toppled, the Aunt Jemima brand is being retired, and so much more. Those gestures are a very small step in the right direction but there is a LOT more work to be done.
I am rethinking my responsibility to my community and how I can contribute to our ability to advance and prosper in this society. I am a strong believer in using the power of the dollar to make a statement—to boycott, and to serve as a vehicle for empowerment.
Blacks in America have $1.3 trillion in annual buying power, and economic experts agree that a very small percentage of that money is being spent with Black businesses. A friend recently mentioned that she is going to be more intentional about shopping with Black-owned companies. It’s not a new or innovative concept, but that comment was a good reminder that I should be doing the same.
I have compiled a list of Black-owned businesses that I’ve previously patronized and /or where I know the owners personally. I’ll be breaking this post up into two parts. This first post will focus on businesses that provide goods and services related to style and fashion. The next post will highlight businesses that provide other types of products and services.
Please consider these companies for your style-related needs.
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Blacktag Apparel is a clothing line that uses fashion as a medium for storytelling. Founder, Abdul Chatman, states that his goal is to “create conversation pieces that speak to present and future generations.”
Each article of clothing touches on some aspect of humanity, Black history, life, and love—and every detail is intentional and carefully planned. You might have seen Blacktag Apparel’s Kunta Kinte shirt on Colin Kappernick during his NFL workout last year. I think we can all agree that the t-shirt spoke volumes…
Kunta Kinte
Photo: Getty Images
Another standout Blacktag Apparel piece is Curly Girl, which pays tribute to all the naturalistas and curly girls out there. Not only is it visually appealing — it also has an amazing tactile experience.
Check out how I styled my Curly Girl sweatshirt, and take a peek at the entire Blacktag Apparel collection here.
Curly Girl
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CEO OF MY LIFE is a lifestyle brand that merges faith and hustle culture with inspirational apparel and merchandise. The brand started when founder, Lara Falusi, experienced a family hardship that resulted in her mother becoming physically disabled. Despite this, she felt inspired to share her spiritual journey and demonstrate that it’s possible to pursue your dreams, regardless of the difficulties you’ve faced. The CEO OF MY LIFE products and platform encourage and inspire everyday people to elevate their faith, hustle, and life.
Check out the CEO OF MY LIFE apparel, lifestyle and planning products here and on Instagram.
Pray Work Win T-shirt
Express Business Plan Workbook
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Funky, edgy, sexy, cool…Those are just a handful of words that I’d use to describe Edge by Tanell — a unique collection of apparel and accessories for women.
“I’ve always had my own style. Love it, hate it—it’s my own. A style strategy that has always found its way through my wardrobe chaos. I love blending style, harmony, and grace with a kick-ass attitude. I call it living on the edge!”
- Owner and Fashion Designer, Tanell Davis
Chelsea and Crush Shrugs and Faux Fur Leg Warmers
Tanell Davis, Edge by Tanell Founder and Fashion Designer
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“I AM.” Two of the most powerful words that can ever be spoken — because the power to define yourself lives within you. I AM Everythin is a brand of unisex clothing and accessories that underscores the power of speaking excellence and abundance into your life. Write your own story, tell your truth, and take control of your own narrative. Check out the complete I AM Everythin line here.
I AM Distressed Dad Hat
Wash Your Hands Unisex T-shirt
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As a fashion-lover, I’m always on the lookout for unique items to add to my wardrobe. I don’t remember how I first learned about Love, Cortnie handbags and accessories, but I am so glad I did. They’re standout high quality pieces that are guaranteed to make a statement. Cortnie’s attention to detail and customer service are unmatched, and I own several of her works of art. Visit Love, Cortnie and you’ll understand exactly why I’m such a huge fan!
Acid Wash Calf Hair Roll Down Clutch - Turquoise by Love, Cortnie
Boxie Calf Hair Bucket Bag - Dalmatian by Love, Cortnie
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Husband and wife team Steve and Tracy Davis keep Philadelphians looking stylish and on trend in the latest and greatest in designer eye wear. Since 2000, Omega Optical has been a leader and preferred provider of quality vision care and personalized optometric services.
As an Omega Optical customer, I have learned how to accessoreyes and have completely embraced the importance of creating an “eye wear wardrobe.” In addition to providing an amazing assortment of frames, the Omega Optical team does a great job of educating its customers on proper eye care and how it relates to your overall health. Steve and Tracy and their team are fantastic!
If you’re in the Philadelphia area, stop by Omega Optical and tell them that Lauren sent you.
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Thorough Threads opened for business with one focus — wowing their customers with great products and phenomenal customer service.
Screen printing, embroidery, digital printing, promotional products and more! If you’re looking to get custom t-shirts or other promotional products for an event large or small, or if you’re looking to launch you’re own clothing line, give Thorough Threads a call. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Thorough Threads and have been very satisfied with their flexibility and personalized customer service.
Click here to learn more about Thorough Threads and their products and services.
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Using your visual presentation as a strategic tool to communicate and command attention is an art. If you’re looking to elevate your look and pull together a signature style, then give REVIVEDLOOK a call. This team of stylish and dapper gentlemen offers services for men and women ranging from makeovers and personal shopping, to event-based styling and style education.
Just take a look at the photo below, and you’ll get a sense of what REVIVEDLOOK can do for you. Reach out to the REVIVEDLOOK team and take your style to the next level!
And last but not least, if you haven’t gotten around to purchasing my book, Find Your Fabulous: The Fearless Fashionista Approach to Developing and Owning Your Style, you can pick up your digital or paperback copy here. You’ll find style strategies, money-saving tips, and workbook pages to help you create your personalized style blueprint. Grab your copy today!
Please share this information with your networks and stay tuned for Part 2 of “Supporting Black-Owned Businesses.” In the meantime, you can check out some additional resources related to Black-owned businesses below.
https://mashable.com/article/how-to-find-and-support-black-owned-businesses/
https://corporette.com/black-owned-companies-to-support-right-now/
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/g32730128/black-fashion-designers/
https://officialblackwallstreet.com/directory/
Thank you for reading, and as always,