8 Rising Black-Owned Brands You Should Shop All Year

Just two short years ago, Black brands like Telfar and Brandon Blackwood were sending social media into a frenzy (and they still do) with their popular bag drops as more and more people started discovering — and investing in — Black designers. Since January 2021, it was reported by Instagram that there was a 70% increase in the use of the hashtag #BlackOwnedBusinesses. 

But we know that there have always been Black designers on the rise shaping trends and revolutionizing the fashion industry. This Black History Month, we’re continuing to celebrate Black fashion brands that are up-and-coming and making an impact within our culture. If you’re looking for new brands to support and shop, this list has you covered — from clothes to accessories — with a wide variety of silhouettes, colors, and styles. 

Remember to shop Black not just in February but all year round. 

Kendall Miles

The high price point of these luxury pumps may shock you at first glance. But we promise the two-toned brown Siren Pumps are worth the investment. They’re manufactured in Italy and hand-crafted. Another plus is that these shoes range from a women’s size 6 to 14.

Buzzoms

This brand makes shirts and dresses for women who want to ditch their bras, and look amazing while doing so. Buzzom focuses on body inclusivity by assuring their unique pieces include a boob pocket that is made out of recycled nylon and elastane to keep your boobs supported throughout the day. The lush tank top is an everyday staple every woman can wear.

Homage Year

Designer Antoine Manning’s accessory brand, Homage Year has continued the momentum of bold & colorful bags. The oval-shaped handbag is a favorite amongst editors and TikTok creators. So much so that it’s sold out on the website but limited editions can be found on the Saks Fifth Ave website.

TIER

This unisex brand is a streetwear favorite. TIER is ideal for the fashionista who loves a monochromatic look and comfortable loungewear. If you’re new to the brand, their essential collection is the best place to begin; it includes sweatshirts, hoodies, sweatpants, and socks. The bold color selections are also a mood booster for your wintertime wardrobe.

Megan Renee

Megan Renee’s latest collection includes chic women’s power suits but also focuses on femininity. The choice of silk and satin fabric really makes the collection’s bold colors and patterns stand out. The funky silhouettes bring a fresh perspective to professional wear. 

Silver & Riley

You can’t go wrong with a collection of timeless leather accessories. Silver & Riley was founded in 2020 and specializes in quality leather goods that are perfect for consumers who love to travel, but they are also great for work and everyday use. Our favorite is the olive green Convertible Executive Leather Bag, which can be used in four different ways: top handle, shoulder bag, crossbody, and backpack.

HoopMobb

If hoop earrings have you in a chokehold, Hoop Mobb is the perfect shop for you. They have a wide selection of fun earrings that showcase how much range a hoop earring can truly have. This brand has various sizes and each pair has a cool intricate design that will have you standing out. Plus, they recently collaborated with creator Signed, Blake on three sets of hoops.

Trouser9

In need of some fancy trousers for work or brunch? Trouser9 has the perfect pair of purple pants that will instantly become a fixture in your wardrobe. These are sleek and tailored pants that will sit right above your mid-waist. Black women, we know we look amazing in any color so don’t be afraid to trade out your neutral-toned essentials for these colorful staples.

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A Case For Wearing Red & Pink, The V Day-Approved Color Combo Everyone Loves To Hate

According to antiquated fashion rules none of us should subscribe to, there are some colors combinations that should never be worn together. Navy blue and black, for example, are often regarded as ugly because (gasp!) they look too similar. Or, purple and green, which is often compared to a certain TV fictional dinosaur who insists we’re a happy family. Yet no color combo is more villanized than pink and red.

It’s the signature combo of Valentine’s Day, with millions of cheesy cards, giant plush toys, and chocolate boxes bearing the scarlet-and-blush combo, all exchanged by people wearing some version of this two-tone formula in the name of love, friendship, and a possible Tinder date. 

Despite it being a color combo that everyone loves to hate, it has long captivated the fashion zeitgeist, with designers and celebs giving the Strawberry Shortcake-approved combination some justice. Back in 2017, Emma Roberts wore a red gown with a pink fur stole by Diane von Fürstenberg to the Met Gala. Later, in 2019, celebs, including Mandy Moore in Brandon Maxwell and Taraji P. Henson in Vera Wang, made headlines for wearing pink-and-red outfits at the Emmy Awards. This year, though, even more designers seem keen on giving the color combo their definite stamp of approval — shushing the haters once and for all. 

Take, for example, the Giambattista Valli spring 2022 lineup, which included a white feather dress featuring pink and red embellishments, paired with crimson sunglasses. Then, there was Portuguese brand Marques’ Almeida, which showed a brighter version of the color combo, in the form of a poplin, asymmetrical pink dress with an attached crossbody red sleeve, as well as a pink slip dress with a scarlet button-down shirt underneath.

Meanwhile, Blumarine showcased a pre-fall 2022 collection full of red-and-pink looks. A light pink stretchy dress with an asymmetrical hemline was paired with shiny red boots, while the reverse happened in a separate outfit. There were also red sweaters, paired with pink cargo pants (yes, the type that Regina George would approve of for Wednesdays!), as well flower chokers and fluffy bags in the color palette. And there’s nothing gimmick-y or juvenile about this full-fledged berry embrace.

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While the long-standing rule for colorblocking used to be that opposing shades in the color wheel (think: blue and orange or green and purple) were the best way to mix shades, brands and consumers are waking up to the idea of contrasting sister shades. And we’re realizing that we’ve been wasting time following unspoken rules for the sake of appearances. 

To get in on this trend (and skip all the rules!), wear one garment that blends the both colors, as opposed to pairing two separate, contrasting pieces for a more minimalist look. Or, better yet, go with a monochrome red look with subtle hints of pink — be it a Y2K-ready flower choker or dainty rose sandals. 

From Valentine’s Day and beyond, get ready for the pink-and-red takeover with the styles below.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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29 Gold Hoop Earrings To Buy Now And Wear Forever

We all have a pair of earrings we wouldn't mind wearing every single day. One that's been a crowd favorite since 2500 BC? Gold hoops. Whether worn close to the earlobes, as big as can be, or even doubled-up, you can count on this particular type of lobe decor to add a subtle statement to your outfit no matter the size or quantity. Their classic style with diverse nuances is what's made them go through generation to generation always feeling fresh, never antiquated. That's why, in our books, they're such a seasonless staple.

Sure, you can associate the shine the gold radiates with much warmer and sunnier days, but that's why we'll be wearing them all through winter too (and beyond), because it's not like we're already counting how many days are left until spring (37 days, FYI). So, to keep our gold hoop repertoire ever growing we've rounded up a 28 gold hoop earrings in all shapes and sizes from brands we already love — and from a few new designers we can't wait to try.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

J.Crew Mini Tube Hoop Earrings, $, available at J.Crew

Mejuri Twin Hoops, $, available at Mejuri

Madewell Delicate Collection Demi-Fine 14k Gold-Filled Large Hoop Earrings, $, available at Madewell

Petite Grand Hammered Oval Hoop Earrings, $, available at Farfetch

Mejuri Bold Pearl Huggies, $, available at Mejuri

Ana Luisa Paris Earring, $, available at Ana Luisa

Jacquemus Le Chiquita Gold-Tone Hoop Earrings, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Jean Paul Clarisse Basic Bold Hoop Earrings, $, available at W Concept

Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Drea Hoop Earrings, $, available at Shopbop

Madewell Lightburst Chunky Small Hoop Earrings, $, available at Zappos

MARIE JUNE Jewelry Dripping Oval L Gold Hoops, $, available at Wolf & Badger

Gold & Honey Petite Slope Huggie Hoops with White Enamel, $, available at Wolf & Badger

Natalie B Jewelry Uma Huggies, $, available at Revolve

Notte Jewelry Kamari Earrings, $, available at Notte Jewelry

Missoma Dome Pave Hoop Earrings, $, available at Missoma

AMYO Thin Hoops 14K Gold, $, available at AMYO

Catbird Chubby Huggy Hoop (Single), $, available at Catbird

kate spade new york CZ Hammered Huggie Hoop Earrings, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

Arms of Eve Arms Of Eve Carmen Citron Hoop Earring, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Pamela Love Braided Stone Hoop Earrings, $, available at Pamela Love

MOBODUC Chunky Gold Hoop Earring, $, available at Etsy

BaubleBar Havah Earrings, $, available at BaubleBar

Aur Studio Henry Hoops in Gold, $, available at Maison de Mode

Free People Floral Hoop Earrings, $, available at Free People

Monica Vinader x Doina Woven Huggie Hoop Earrings, $, available at Nordstrom

Gorjana 14k Gold Open Heart Huggies, $, available at Gorjana

Aldo Aderima Battered Hoop Earrings, $, available at ASOS

Jennifer Behr Tara Plated Brass Hoops, $, available at Moda Operandi

Aurate Long Beam Hoops, $, available at Aurate

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4 Unbelievably Good ‘Fits That Prove The “Dad Shoe” Isn’t Going Anywhere

Oh, the “dad shoe.” The chunky, sensible, “ugly” footwear style beloved by grill-obsessed Midwestern dads should have been the very antithesis of fashion, and yet, for the last several years, it continues to have a firm foothold in the fashion industry. It’s one of the phenomena we simply cannot explain. And it seems we’re in for another year of utility, comfort, and ease, except for one roadblock: It can feel awkward — even impossible — to wear and style it with the clothes you own (Is this shoe too ugly? you might wonder). 

But the beauty of the “dad shoe” is that it doesn’t require much (or really any) thought, because the style is actually pretty versatile. Its quiet simplicity allows for opportunities to experiment and play with different outfits that range from casual to dressy. And with a little help from Merrell, we’ll show you just how easy it is to incorporate the “dad shoe” into your everyday looks. Using the brand’s Jungle Moc Eco and Hydro Moc shoes — two incredibly self-aware, aesthetic-defying styles — these four looks will inspire you to embrace the trend regardless of where you’re going, whether that’s going on a hike or a grabbing a cocktail. 

Elevate Your Athleisure

Perhaps the easiest way to wear a “dad shoe” is by pairing it with workout clothes for a full-on athleisure moment. While you could go the easy route and reach for gym basics — say, your favorite black leggings and a gray hoodie — consider sprucing things up by incorporating a bit of fun in there by way of interesting textures, bright colors, or unexpected accessories (or all of the above). 

Experiment With Street Style

For a model off-duty kind of look, pair your comfiest slip-ons with a cool top and even cooler bottoms, like a billowy pant with unique tassel detailing. Edgy and understated, the mix of gorpcore and street style is a winning combination that leaves ample room for experimentation and playfulness. 

Get Dressed Up

A “dad shoe” with a dress? The juxtaposition between a super-feminine silhouette (in this case, a white dress with mesh detailing and pearl embellishments) and a sleek, durable “dad shoe” just works. For your next cocktail event or work function, take the unexpected route and replace  your go-to heel with this style. You’ll be the comfiest person in the room.

Look Toward The Future

For a futuristic spin on the trend, try pairing a “dad shoe” with a matching leather look in a playful color, like orange. For footwear that can feel “old,” styling it with super-sleek co-ords can give it a surprisingly refreshing lift, resulting in a big ‘fit that would work for hitting up a bar or gallery-hopping with friends.

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If You Have A Big Head, This Oversized Balaclava Might Be the Answer

As far as winter clothing trends for 2022, the balaclava is at peak popularity. Originally worn by soldiers in the 19th century during the Crimean War, balaclavas are used as protection from deeply cold winter weather. The ski-mask-shaped style’s quick rise to fame is not a surprise in the era of “anything goes” fashion. It’s the ultimate combo of super functional and fun.

Although many have jumped on the balaclava train with no hesitation, for some, the close-fitting headgear poses a few issues. For starters, such a tight-fitting style is less big hair-friendly and more conducive to flatter, non-texturized hairstyles. The balaclava also tends to come in one size, posing problems for those with larger heads.

Enter: the Slouchy Oversized Balaclava sold by Echo. As a girl with an Afro and a member of the big head club, I was intrigued and knew I had to see what it was all about. I also enlisted the help of my coworker and fellow big head club member to test out Echo’s claims. If you do have a large head or are just curious to know our hot takes on this slouchy balaclava, read on.

Echo Dramatic Oversized Faux-Fur- Trim Balaclava, $99

“I love hats so much all year round. However, most don’t actually fit my head with the exception of flexible styles like beanies and berets. I’m definitely down to wear hats during the winter, but that usually depends on the way my hair is styled on that specific day. With my Afro out, I typically will not wear a hat. However, if my hair is braided, in a wig, or flat twisted then I would opt for a hat when I can.

I love the wide range of balaclava designs I’ve been seeing. My biggest reservation has to do with the fact that I can’t really wear one that’d feel comfortable because I have a larger head and my Afro is big too. 

I’m really into the faux-fur oversized balaclava from Echo. It doesn’t feel super constricting which is important. I don’t think I’d wear it when my Afro was at its largest and fully stretched because it would definitely mess up the style. It’s big head friendly and not tight at all especially when your hair is braided down. It has a luxe, high-end look that gives off luxurious vibes. 

I definitely felt protected from the cold weather and wind in this. I don’t even feel the need to wear a scarf when it’s on because it protects my neck from the elements as well. I plan on wearing this again throughout the rest of winter. I’m so glad I got to try it out!” – Chichi Offor, Associate Writer

Echo Dramatic Oversized Faux-Fur-Trim Balaclava, $99

“The amount of headwear that adorns my head during the winter is directly correlated to whichever hairstyle I’m rocking at that time. If I’m wearing braids, twists, a wig, etc., then you will definitely catch me in a beanie or two. I also love wearing hoods.

I was not aware of the balaclava trend until R29 wrote a story about it. When I looked into it I just thought, ‘Okay so it’s another trend for small-headed people with flat hair.’ I also did not find too many balaclavas attractive, especially for people who wear headphones or big earrings.

But oh, I L-O-V-E this balaclava — probably because she’s not like other girls. Even if I was bald, my head would take up a good chunk of the earth’s atmosphere, so I was prepared for this hat to be snug or tight around the afro. Lo and behold, this thing effortlessly glides over my twist-outs and only needs a tug or two to scooch over my fully-fluffed afro. And, not to toot my own horn, but I look like an adorable high fashion granny traversing the city in it.

Unfortunately, though, I would not call this afro friendly. I’m either wearing it all day or not wearing it at all because once it comes off, my hair is a mess. If your hair is not a constant victim of anti-gravity and returns to its desired shape after wearing hats, then you need not worry (you also probably don’t need to read this review).

Echo’s Balaclava keeps my face cozy and my big head warm. The only elements I encountered during these two weeks of wear were wind and 25-degree weather. If it’s similar to other furry hoods, I assume that it would pick up snow pretty well — but I would hate to get caught in the rain with this on.

The question is not will I wear it again, but in fact, when will I take it off? As someone who works from home and has a good hair day maybe 2 or three days out of the week, this balaclava is my lifeline. It also keeps my scalp warm during twist-out days. I’m not obsessed with the fact that the knit fabric scruffs up my afro (where are the balaclavas with satin lining? Looking at you Grace Eleyae!), but in the winter I do not care too much. Long live Echo’s big-head Balaclava.”– Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Writer

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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