7 Incredible Black-Owned Brands To Shop From ESSENCE Festival’s New Voices Activation

ESSENCE Festival Of Culture is back, and while the main stages always bring the energy (I mean, Teyana Taylor is the chief curator this year), some of the most inspiring moments are happening on the ground with the next generation of entrepreneurial talent. This year, the festival is shining a massive spotlight on its New Voices activation, celebrating a powerful cohort of trailblazing founders who are redefining everything from luxury fashion to wellness and literature.

Even more inspiring? As part of their inaugural vendor mentor program, several of these established vendor partners are stepping up to mentor incoming brands, building a beautiful ecosystem of community.

If you’re looking to vote with your dollar and support exceptional Black-owned businesses, look no further. We’ve rounded up a few of the brilliant, brands that deserve a permanent spot in your shopping cart.

TrufaceByGrace By Grace Yeboah

For the accessory enthusiasts, Grace Yeboah’s TrufaceByGrace offers everything, from crowns to beach bags. You’ll feel like royalty wearing the armor-like cuff bracelets and the face-framing earrings.

Cree & Company By Bianca Tatum

If you’re looking for a brand that brings a curated sensibility to design, offering thoughtfully crafted goods that seamlessly blend intentionality with modern aesthetics, look no further. Bianca Tatum’s Cree & Company turns jewelry into works of art through unique silhouettes and dopamine-inducing color.

That Good Good Shea By Irene Bekoe

Your skin and hair will thank you for adding this one to your beauty routine. Whipped, rich, and deeply nourishing, Irene Bekoe’s That Good Good Shea is the ultimate beauty indulgence. Rooted in authentic, high-quality ingredients, this brand takes staying moisturized to a luxurious level.

F&W Style by Alexandria Alli

If your accessory wardrobe is in need of an elevated vibrant upgrade, Alexandria Alli’s F&W Style delivers luxury leather handbags designed for those who love the polish of structured pieces but want to make a statement that’s confidently bold. Melding sophistication with practical luxury, these bags will be the hero of your collection.

Focus & Frame Eyewear By Brittney Adams

Sunglasses are the ultimate outfit punctuation mark, and Brittney Adams is making sure yours say exactly what they need to. Focus & Frame Eyewear serves up attention-grabbing, fashion-forward eyewear that mixes trendy design with classic silhouettes.

Courtney Kelly Books By Courtney Kelly

In need of your next profound read or looking to diversify a bookshelf? Courtney Kelly is using the power of storytelling to create impactful literary spaces, making her eponymous publishing house a vital voice in modern storytelling.

Rozi Eats By Rosemarie Tolbert

Because no curation is complete without a little indulgence, Rosemarie Tolbert’s Rozi Eats serves up artisanal confectionery treats that taste just as beautiful as they look. They’re also perfect for gifting (or keeping all to yourself).

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Concert Outfit Inspo For Every Type of Festival

All The Early Fourth of July Fashion Sales To Shop

Shop Latine-Owned Brands for Your World Cup Merch

The 5 Summer Travel Essentials I’m Wearing From the Dominican Republic to Paris

This may sound controversial, but I rarely take checked luggage on a trip. When there’s no other choice (like my semi-destination wedding and honeymoon, which spanned nearly a month),  I worry if my bags will arrive where I’m headed. Even more eye-twitching is standing beside a conveyor belt as bags slowly roll on by. So, if there’s any way to not take a monster suitcase, I’m in. 

Thanks to my mom, I consider myself a master packer, zipping, squishing, and folding everything into a handy carry-on suitcase and personal item (like my Calpak Ambeur and Luka Duffel). But it’s not an easy feat. Step one to conquering the art of packing light is having a well-rounded checklist. It takes strategy, splaying outfits across the bed and using your itinerary as a guide. Even more important? Reaching for versatile styles.

I work in fashion, so a minimalist, capsule wardrobe isn’t really my thing — I love colors, prints, and textures! But wearability doesn’t mean boring. Think a gingham one-piece that doubles as a bodysuit, or wearing a silk scarf as a belt or bandana. It takes creativity, but once you get it down, your packing will never be the same.

I’m taking my own advice as I jet-set off to the Dominican Republic, England, France, and a few stops within the United States. So, keep reading to up your summer travel game and shop my style essentials. 

Elevated Silk Scarves

Silk scarfs are undeniably chic, offering a touch of glamour to any look. Knotting it around your neck is  the most common approach, but you can maximize its wearability by draping it over your bottoms like a flowing belt. I adore the flirty vibe it gives as a headband, bandana, bow, and bag charm. Depending on the dimensions of the scarf, you can even wear it as an open-back tube top.

Transitional One-Piece Swimsuits

A swimsuit is a vacation non-negotiable, but even if you prefer sultry two-pieces, I’d urge you to consider adding a one-piece to the lineup. While they’re perfect for beach days and poolside tanning, one-pieces double as bodysuits. Wear them with maxi skirts and kitten heels for an elevated rooftop happy hour, or style them with high-waisted shorts and casual sneakers for a day of sightseeing. Pro tip: Secure a swimmie with decorative details like twists, overlays, and snap closures to make the styling intentional.

Do-It-All Linen Button-Downs

Oversized linen button-downs are crucial in any well-rounded wardrobe — but they play an even more important role when jetsetting. I prefer an oversized silhouette, wearing it as a dress to the pool or tucked into shorts for a sleek finish. Billowy button-downs are also ideal for lounging, thanks to the easy throw-on-and-go style great for spa trips, gym sessions, and coffee-sipping.

Packable Woven Totes

Without fail, I take two bags on vacation: a compact, elevated style for evenings and — more importantly — a packable, woven tote. The flexible design keeps it from feeling bulky and stiff, making it simple to fold, store, and stash it. Take it to the beach, fill it with your  makers’ market finds, and use it as your personal item on flights.

Comfortable, Chic Sandals

Polished sandals are a must,  easily becoming your one-and-done vacation shoe for just about everything. Opting for a comfortable style with straps and contoured footbeds means you can wear them all day, ideal for long travel days, resort wandering, and café hopping. But don’t forget to choose a pair with elevated details to keep them feeling chic, allowing you to dress them up for dinners with sundresses and skirts.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

The Best Summer Dresses For When It's Too Hot

Lululemon’s Summer Sale Is Live!

Why Everyone Is Living In Matching Sets Right Now

The Brazil Merch Trend Has Taken Over More Than Just The Soccer World

Coming right off the back of the Knicks’ NBA Championships win, the FIFA World Cup has cemented the fact that live sporting events can truly bring the world together, even if you’re not an enthusiast. From the excited tourists and communal watch parties to underdog stories and the GOATs making history, soccer is at the center of our conversations (and style) at the moment. And while everyone has their respective teams they’re rooting for, there’s one country that comes on top for cultural relevance… and fashion: Brazil.

The men’s Brazilian national soccer team has won the most World Cups in history. It’s also home to some of the greatest players of all time, from Pelé to Neymar. And it’s created an avid fanbase that’s reached people outside of stadiums and across nationalities. So much so that Brazilian soccer jerseys and merch have popped up the most on our favorite celebrities, across the fashion scene, and all over our TikTok feeds.

“Brazil’s jersey has been woven into fashion and popular culture for generations, giving it a legacy that extends well beyond the game itself,” stylist and Depop trends spokesperson Gabriella Karefa-Johnson tells Refinery29. “The jersey’s enduring connection to iconic players, music, and street style has made it one of the few national kits that people wear as a fashion statement first and fan merchandise second.” And right now, that’s more apparent to me than ever.

From celebrities like Dua Lipa, Hailey Bieber, and Camila Cabello proudly repping the country’s merch in recent months to influencers making viral videos on how to DIY or style the soccer jerseys for different occasions, Brazilian merch has become a dominating fashion trend this summer.

According to Depop, searches for Brazil jerseys have increased by over 900% on the resell platform in the last three months (and Brazil tank tops and shirts by over 500%). Plus, Pinterest’s Summer 2026 Trend Report revealed that in addition to soccer style taking over this summer, “Brazil jersey outfit women” specifically increased by over 300% in searches across the platform’s 600 million monthly users.

Because of the widespread demand, many Brazilian brands are also thriving in the spotlight: from Havaianas (which increased over 250% in searches on Depop) to Farm Rio, Sol de Janeiro, and Melissa. And many other brands have taken the fandom and momentum and ran with it. Retailers like Old Navy, Bershka, and Hollister have released official FIFA athleisure styles, while others like Urban Outfitters, Pacsun, and Los Angeles Apparel have capitalized on the striking yellow and green color combo.

“Brazilians rep their colors harder than most! The limoncello yellow and palm frond green […] is coded into the visual and fashion culture of the country from vintage kits to Havaianas — so much so that, globally, the colors evoke the bombastic energy of the place itself,” Karefa-Johnson says.

But it shouldn’t be so surprising that so many people across nationalities also wear Brazilian-coded fashion, especially considering Brazil has some of the largest populations of Portuguese, Japanese, Lebanese, Italian, Syrian, Ukrainian, Korean, German, Venezuelan, and African diasporas in the world. The country is a true melting pot that continues to attract, influence, and inspire so many cultures.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @planet.juli

After Brazil recently beat Japan in the final minute of their knockout game, the country may get the chance to bring home the World Cup trophy yet again on July 19. But even if they don’t, there’s no denying the team’s longstanding impact beyond the field.

And especially because the 2027 Women’s World Cup will be held in Brazil, I’m pretty positive that Brazil merch won’t be a fleeting trend, but rather continue on as an enduring sporty fashion staple that we’ll reach for for years to come.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Shop Latine-Owned Brands for Your World Cup Merch

5 Ways To Style A Soccer Jersey For The World Cup

The Sports-Luxe Trend Is About To Be Everywhere

Believe It Or Not, Amazon Low-Key Has The Best Jelly Sandals

Watching the sunset, sipping on an Aperol spritz, grabbing an ice cream cone, tanning on your rooftop. These are all integral parts of summer, coloring the season with ease and joy — but nothing echoes the dog days like jelly sandals.

The nostalgic footwear is a little squishy, a bit shiny, and a whole lot like Jell-O, serving as a time capsule into the ‘90s. Often worn as a casual summer style, you could spot them at waterparks and boardwalks (bonus points if you wore the jellies with high-waisted shorts and a baby tee). If you were lucky, they even smelled like grapes or bubblegum.

While a lot has changed since those simpler times, jelly sandals have managed to find their way back to us. The Row debuted a strawberry-red, caged sandal in its 2024 Pre-Fall collection, quickly popularized by Jennifer Lawrence. But it was more than a fad, with Chloé’s gelatinous heels marching down the Spring/Summer 2026 runway.

This resurgence felt fresh, refining the relaxed silhouette to be worn beyond the beach (think dinners in the city and summer soirées). Whether reaching for a designer pick or not, the playful style adds a whimsical touch to your wardrobe, reminding us that life doesn’t have to be so serious. 

That child-like wonder is finding its way among brands like Tory Burch, Dolce Vita, and Kate Spade, offering glitter-dusted straps, crystal-clear footbeds, and syrupy hues all found on Amazon. And since matters of silhouette are wearer-specific, fisherman, kitten-heel, T-strap, and even thong sandals are gaining traction.

Head back to the ’90s and secure a cool-girl version of your favorite throwback shoe. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All 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.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Between the vibrant hue and the comfortable fit, this emerald jelly has become a bestseller among Refinery29 readers. You'd be surprised by how many cool outfits pair well with a sleek green sandal.

Luffymomo Jelly Flip Flops, $, available at Amazon

This ’70s-inspired slide was made for wide-leg jeans and your favorite comfy tank top. The sea-glass blue netting contrasts with the pale wooden sole, decorated with hammered embellishments.

Vince Barbara Jelly Slide Sandals, $, available at Amazon

Add a few inches with these platform slides, boasting a chic tortoise design. Oversized buckles and a pillowy insole deliver style and comfort.

Dolce Vita Julio Jelly Sandals, $, available at Amazon

When you’re craving a burst of color, slip on these kiwi-green slides. The basket cage is adorned with the iconic spade symbol, and the lightweight design keeps them comfortable all day.

Kate Spade Sculpted Spade Jelly Sandals, $, available at Amazon

Picture these glitter-topped kitten heels with a timeless black mini skirt and oversized tee. The slight heel adds an undeniable polish, while flecks of shimmer add a touch of whimsy.

Steve Madden Tracie Sandal, $, available at Amazon

What don’t these maple-colored sandals have? An adjustable ankle strap, square toe, and barely-there heel make for a head-turning footwear choice. Wear them with a satin midi skirt and tie-front vest.

Usrunoe Flip Flop Kitten Heels, $, available at Amazon

If there’s one brand that knows how to do summer right, it’s Farm Rio. The Brazilian clothing and lifestyle label is known for bright, vibrant colors—and these cherry-red thong sandals fit the bill.

Farm Rio Jelly Thong Flat, $, available at Amazon

Headed to the beach? Then don’t forget to pack these easy throw-on-and-go sandals. Glossy straps hug the foot and a toe-loop adds a modern touch. The contoured footbed will even have you walking for miles.

Crocs Miami Toe Loop Sandals, $, available at Amazon

Ready for a night out, these ruched, chilly-red kitten heels make a statement. But what’s better than the cushioned footbed? The delicious bubblegum scent.

Melissa Jelly Thong, $, available at Amazon

Two powerhouse brands come together to deliver the epitome of a cool-girl flip-flop. It’s simple and uncomplicated, effortlessly styled with bubble sunglasses and a statement bag.

Madewell x Melissa Jelly Flip Flops, $, available at Amazon

Sky blue jellies almost feel like a neutral, given how versatile they'll be in your wardrobe. Wear them with your Bermuda shorts and white T-shirts or all your summery dresses.

Cushionaire Splash Jelly Flip Flops, $, available at Amazon

If neutrals are your thing, then you’re going to love these tri-colored sandals. A pearl-white strap is planted atop a chocolate-colored footbed, while a translucent mini heel adds a smidge of height.

Vince San Juan Thong Sandals, $, available at Amazon

These mini wedges might look like heels, but they feel like flats. Loved by Hailey Bieber, this silhouette is taking off—and now you can secure it in a dreamy sky blue.

Schutz Roslyn Jelly Wedges, $, available at Amazon

Whether you plan on wandering cobblestone streets abroad or are simply looking for a summer staple, you’ve found it. This toffee-colored gladiator sandal boasts a melted fastening alongside a comfortable block heel.

Naturalizer Brandy Sandals, $, available at Amazon

It doesn’t get more classic than an interwoven pair of jellies. However, gold shimmer and crystal studs turn a traditional silhouette into wearable art.

Loeffler Randall Rhys Jelly Sandals with Studs, $, available at Amazon

These Tory Burch T-strap sandals whisper quiet luxury, offered in a crystal-clear jelly that’s almost undetectable. The standout detail? The brand’s signature medallion.

Tory Burch Mini Miller Jelly Sandals, $, available at Amazon

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Iconic Reality Stars Reunite R29's Summer Lookbook

Lululemon’s Summer Sale Is Live!

The Amazon Swimsuits Worth The Hype