Everyone has their go-to procrastination tactic—maybe you find yourself refreshing your Instagram feed, whipping up an elaborate meal, or going for a leisurely walk when you’re putting off a task. My personal coping mechanism? Making shopping lists. No matter what mood I’m in or why exactly I’m looking to kill time, my first instinct is to draw up a list of things I need—well, more often than not, things I want but don’t actually need. Grocery lists, arbitrary to-do lists, and yes, shopping lists.
Being a fashion editor, I keep a running tab of my favorite brands and boutiques that are owned or designed by Black talent. These names are top of mind throughout the year, but given that February is Black History Month, it’s the perfect time to highlight all the stunning Black-owned fashion items that are occupying my cart (and my headspace) right now. In the below edit, you’ll find a range of items from pretty pearl earrings to reworked knits and brands from smaller indie labels like LaSette and Sammy B to industry heavyweights such as Telfar and Victor Gelmaud. This one goes out to you, Who What Wear readers, because there’s no one who loves a good shopping list more than you do (except for yours truly).
If you haven’t heard the name Thebe Magugu yet, well, consider this your official intro. The Johannesburg, South Africa-based label already holds the LVMH prize and is part of Matches Fashion innovator’s program, just a few reasons why I’m convinced it’s one to know. The stunning designs hit at the heart of what fashion people want to wear now, offering one-of-a-kind twists on staple silhouettes such as shirt dresses or this gorgeous cutout knit top.
Cargo pants are suddenly on my mind with all the cool ways fashion people have been wearing them as of late and I’ve been eyeing this pair in the perfect shade of olive from LA-based Local European to get in on the look.
Feathers were once a nighttime-only trend, but let’s face it, they’re a full-blown statement no matter what time of day and these strappy ankle-tie sandals from Brother Vellies deserve to have their moment in the sun.
Ahluwalia is one of the most exciting emerging labels on the scene right now thanks to designer Priya Ahluwalia’s uncanny ability to bring new life to deadstock fabrics. I love the day-to-night potential this checkerboard midi dress has.
After going viral for his petite handbags emblazoned with the phrase “End Systemic Racism”, Brandon Blackwood has not only managed to garner attention from the fashion world but he’s harnessed the buzz into long-lasting intrigue. His latest batch of candy-hued mini bags is proof that he’s only just getting started.
Creating truly unisex designs that work equally as well for everyone is no easy feat, but Wales Bonner has managed to do just that and imbues each piece with an effortlessly cool feel. This sweater vest from the designer’s latest collection feels retro and modern all at once.
While pearl jewelry is trending at the moment, the simple gold hoops these feature on ensure thid pick is timeless, too.
Everything Christopher John Rogers designs just puts a big smile on my face and this bubbly-yet-sultry bustier is exactly why the designer’s whimsical ethos is so special.
If you’re not shopping Good American’s selection of cool basics, what are you even doing? Next time you’re perusing Shopbop or Nordstrom, do yourself a favor and add one of their useful staples like this ribbed dress to your cart.
Nordstrom’s edit of emerging brands is so good right now and Sammy B is an NYC-based brand that deserves to be on your radar. I’m eyeing this skirt with the coolest hemline I’ve ever seen.
When the stylist behind some of the most epic celeb ensembles creates a label of their own, you know it has to be good. Such is the case with Aliette, Jason Rembert’s brainchild and the emerging label catering to all our 2022 needs, starting with this insane ruched dress.
If you’re in the market for an investment piece of jewelry, I suggest one of Mateo’s stunning pearl pieces like these hoops that are special enough to elevate an outfit but easy enough to wear every day.
Nobody does cool knits quite like Victor Glemaud.
Meet the minimalist bag brand I just put on my radar.
I can never say no to a cute cardigan.
Summer can’t come soon enough if it involves this stunning swimsuit.
It’s the corset-inspired seaming for me.
I’ve been turning to relaxed suiting trousers instead of jeans lately, and this beige pair hits on all the right elements.
An everyday necessity.
Tove’s ethereal draped dresses and tie-up blouses have earned a special place in the hearts of fashion people (myself very much included).
Because zebra print can never not look chic.
In case you haven’t heard, big checkered scarves are trending hard right now and my growing collection of the winter accessories is proof that it’s a style I’m 100% behind.
Bring the vacation vibes to you.
So here for these halter straps.
From the architectural shape to the ’90s style, this is a major yes from me.
Because I know you were looking for cool clogs (I was too).
Make this brand your go-to for cool, minimal swimwear. Shop the Micro Bare Minimum Bikini Bottom ($118)
A basic that’s as ’90s as it is now.
How charming is this necklace handmade in Queens, NYC?
The ballerina aesthetic is coming back, and this shrug is the perfect way to get in on it.
I can’t resist a good lace lingerie set.
The collab to end all collabs.
I don’t remotely have anything going on to justify this jumpsuit, but I really needed you to see it.
Believe me when I say that my bags are already half-packed for when it’s safe to travel again and this pretty bikini is a key addition.
Herringbone chains have an elevated feel to them no matter how much you actually spend.
Investing in quality lingerie has been top of mind lately and this beautiful silk bralette is definitely the ultimate goal.
Autumn Adeigbo should be your go-to for the prettiest headbands and prints.
This print is so dreamy.
The back is even more stunning, if you can believe it.
