This article includes affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you.

For years, Black entrepreneurs have had to fight for recognition, often facing systemic challenges that make it tough to find funding, distribution, and mainstream support. Despite these barriers, they continue to launch competitive brands that raise the bar. Their presence confronts outdated industry norms, pushes for inclusivity, and expands opportunities for others to follow.

Shopping Black-owned brands is an investment in businesses that are reshaping culture. Black-owned brands have penetrated all markets: beauty, travel, and lifestyle essentials that bring something fresh to the table. And these brands are proving they’re here to stay.

Fenty Beauty – Los Angeles, California

Rihanna changed the beauty game forever when she launched Fenty Beauty back in 2017. With 50 foundation shades from the jump, she came on strong out of the gate. 

And let’s not forget about those iconic Gloss Bombs and Killawatt Highlighters—pure magic. Every time the brand drops a new product it sends waves through the beauty industry, and Rihanna’s commitment to quality keeps customers coming back for more.

Pat McGrath Labs – New York City, New York

If you know makeup, you know Pat McGrath. She’s the mother of modern beauty, a visionary who’s been setting trends for decades. Her luxury makeup brand, Pat McGrath Labs, is all about high-impact pigments and velvety textures 

The detail and precision in her formulations make her products the best in the business. Her lipsticks and eyeshadow palettes are pure perfection. Each product feels like a work of art, and honestly, once you try her stuff, there’s no going back.

Telfar – New York City, New York

Don’t have a Telfar bag yet? What are you even doing? Dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin,” Telfar’s iconic Shopping Bag is a must-have. Founded by Telfar Clemens, this company embodies accessibility, style, and cultural influence. 

Telfar’s tagline—”Not for you, for everyone”—speaks volumes. The goal is to redefine luxury and make high fashion available to everyone, not just to look good. 

The drops sell out fast. People go to great lengths to snag a Telfar. Plus, the sense of community around the brand is unmatched.

Brother Vellies – New York City, New York

Sustainable. Handmade. Unapologetically gorgeous. That’s Brother Vellies in a nutshell. Founded by Aurora James, this footwear and accessories brand brings traditional African craftsmanship into the contemporary world. 

Each piece tells a story, merging history with modern fashion in a meaningful and stylish way. If you’re looking for premium pieces that make a statement, you should be shopping Brother Wellies. 

Plus, Aurora’s Fifteen Percent Pledge is pushing major retailers to commit to stocking more Black-owned brands.

Pyer Moss – New York City, New York

Pyer Moss’s founder, Kerby Jean-Raymond, fuses style with social commentary. His designs are bold, artistic, and constantly pushing the envelope. 

Pyer Moss is known for its striking silhouettes, bold colors, and messages that challenge the status quo. If you’re into streetwear that means something, Pyer Moss is a must-follow. 

Kerby is shaking up the fashion world in ways that are long overdue, bringing much-needed visibility to Black designers in exclusive spaces.

The Lip Bar – Detroit, Michigan

Melissa Butler turned rejection into an empire when she launched The Lip Bar. After getting turned down on Shark Tank, she built one of the most successful Black-owned beauty brands out there. 

The Lip Bar is affordable. It’s about clean ingredients and bright colors like electric purples, everyday nudes, and a variety of shades for everyone. The lipsticks are fire. And they’ve expanded into foundation, concealer, and more—all with the same commitment to quality and inclusivity.

Briogeo – New York City, New York

Choosing the right haircare products can be challenging, but Briogeo has got you covered. Founder Nancy Twine created this clean, natural haircare brand that caters to all hair types. 

Briogeo’s formulas are terrific for all hair types, including straight, curly, or coily. Their Don’t Despair, Repair! deep conditioning mask has holy grail status. Also, the brand is all about sustainability and avoiding harsh chemicals—so your hair (and the planet) wins.

The Honey Pot Company – Atlanta, Georgia

Founded by Bea Dixon, The Honey Pot Company is revolutionizing the space with plant-based, chemical-free products designed for women, by women. This eco-friendly, health-conscious line ranges from herbal-infused pads to all-natural washes. 

The company’s mission is to educate and empower women to take control of their health. And their commitment to breaking taboos around vaginal health is much-needed.

Mented Cosmetics – New York City, New York

Finding the perfect nude lipstick can be awful, but Mented Cosmetics has mastered a makeup line that complements deeper skin tones. KJ Miller and Amanda E. Johnson founded this beauty brand with the notion that women of color deserve high-quality, everyday makeup that works for them. 

Richly pigmented, non-toxic, and cruelty-free, Mented’s foundations and eyeshadows accentuate natural beauty.

Harlem Brands – New York City, New York

Harlem Brands—founded by Teri Johnson—celebrates Harlem’s legacy with three companies. The Harlem Candle Co. features luxurious home fragrances, capturing the spirit of Harlem’s historic elegance. 

The Harlem Perfume Co. presents niche fragrances inspired by Harlem Renaissance icons, while the Harlem Design Co. offers sophisticated journals, tote bags, and home décor that reflect the era’s creative energy. Together, these brands honor the Golden Age of Harlem.