In honor of Black History month, ORANGE is celebrating black creatives and entrepreneurs who are making strides in the beauty and retail industries by representing black beauty, talent and artistry. Check out out this list of black-owned businesses you can support beyond Black History Month.
Story by Alexis Green
Adorned by Chi
Photo Courtesy of AdornedbyChi
Adorned by Chi is the epitome of a bubblegum pink aesthetic. Jacque Amadi, the blogger behind Jacque of All Trades and Chi Loves, developed Adorned by Chi after her success selling vintage clothes online . A true boss, Jacque began the website, took pictures and made most of the products by herself with the mentality of being “cute and conscious, black and proud.”The quirky site offers a range of products, from t-shirts, home goods and pins to adorn your favorite denim jacket. The products feature unisex apparel and a size range for different body types.
Mixed Chicks
Photo Courtesy of MixedChicks
After failed attempts to find the right products for their hair, Wendy Levi and Kim Etheridge decided to just make their own line with the idea the diversity of hair in mind. For a lot of curly haired girls, Mixed Chicks provides a line of holy grail products that help define their beautiful coils. However, the website offers a large range of hair products, styling tools and skincare that is suitable for all types of men and women.
Brooklyn Circus
Photo Courtesy of BrooklynCirus
What was once a singular Brooklyn store started by Haitian designer Ouigi Theodore in 2006 has now become a largely recognized brand sold all around the world. This retailer welcomes people to its “circus” where they aim to tell the “story of style throughout American history and to emphasize the power of presentation.” More of an upscale brand, Brooklyn Circus specializes in men’s apparel with a variety of clothing and accessories, but are mainly known for their varsity jackets that could make any jock jealous.
Good Night Darling Company
Photo Courtesy of Good Night Darling Company
Owned by African American women, Goodnight Darling Company was inspired by a personal struggle with insomnia. The website stresses the importance of sleep, something that many college students neglect in favor of late night studies. In the “treat yo self” spirit, Good Night Darling has a range of products that can help with much needed relaxation after a stressful exam. From comfy pjs, teas, candles and bath salts, this brand has your perfect DIY spa day covered.
Juvia’s Place
Photo Courtesy of Beautybyne
Inspired by her West African culture, Chichi Eburu started her cosmetics line with only $2000 in her pocket. Juvia’s Place has been seen all over social media in makeup routines all over Youtube and on gurus such as Bretman Rock. Vibrant pigmented shadows within their palettes have been this brand’s claim to fame, but the retailer has all you’re beauty needs covered with many vegan and cruelty free products.
Ultraviolet
Photo Courtesy of Ultraviolet
After working for Kenneth Cole and starting her own shoe line, Nicole Mebane ventured out to create her own lifestyle brand. Ultraviolet’s name is very true to their eclectic products. You can release your inner ‘90s kid with its iridescent chokers, or maybe your inner hippie spirit with funky mineral necklaces. Regardless of who you are, the retailer has a range of unique accessories to compliment any outfit.
