Your Guide to Gifting Black-Owned Brands at Every Price Point
There’s an old adage around gifts that states, "It’s the thought that counts,” and I’d argue it’s both true and false. This year’s holiday season and gifts will (and should) be different because anything we buy at this moment in time will directly affect the businesses we’re buying from. And it’s more important than ever to support Black-owned fashion brands and beauty brands.
Over the past few years, the world has continued to grapple with systemic racism and police brutality, and that awareness has extended into every facet of life. The New York Times reported that only 12% of Black business owners received funding to help their businesses through this time. This fact doesn’t even remotely speak to how Black creatives struggle to break into and stay in the fashion industry. As individuals, we may not be able to reform industries or business financing, but we can support the brands that align with our values and practice conscious consumption.
So ahead, you’ll find a few gift ideas that reinvigorate thoughtful gift gifting. If you are lucky enough to be able to give gifts to your loved ones this year, why not show some love to one of these 72 Black-owned fashion, beauty, and wellness brands?
A quick skim of the best gifts from Black-owned businesses:
- Most Useful Gift: Ekua Ceramics Half Note Mug ($64)
- Best Luxury Gift: Tove Ondine Wool-Blend Coat ($1855)
- Best Sentimental Gift: Ten Wilde Personalized Old English Nameplate Necklace ($42)
- Best Budget-Friendly Option: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Glossy Posse Vii Full-Size Gloss Bomb Trio ($40)
- Best Gift Idea for In-Laws: Estelle Colored Glass Set of 6 Stemless Wine Glasses ($170)
- Best Gift Idea for Mothers: Mateo 14-Karat Gold, Topaz and Pearl Earrings ($900)
- Best Gift Idea for Siblings: Bychari + Small Initial Stud Earrings ($100)
- Best Gift Idea for Best Friends: Soko Twisted Dash Ring ($138)
- Best Gift Idea for Boyfriends: Off-White Black Quote Card Holder ($260)
- Best Gift Idea for Girlfriends: White/Space Luna 14k Yellow Gold Earrings ($2280)
- Best Gift for Fashionable Girlfriends: Brandon Blackwood Daphne Bag ($250)
- Best Gift for Newer Relationships: Actually Curious + Starter Bundle: Icebreaker Conversation Cards ($28)
- Best Gift for the Girlfriend Who Has Everything: Ree Projects Helene Suede Hobo Bag ($895)
- Best Gift for the Sneakerhead: Wales Bonner x Adidas Originals Edition Samba Millennium Sneakers ($250)
- Best Gift for the Homebody: Harlem Candle Co. Josephine Luxury Candle ($48)
- Best Gift for the Culture Fanatic: Taschen + Ice Cold: a Hip-Hop Jewelry History ($100)
- Best Gift for the Skincare-Obsessed: Shani Darden Skin Care Shani's Signature Facial at Home ($399)
- Best Gift for the Wellness-Obsessed: Golde Make Your Matcha Kit ($48)
Under $50
It doesn’t get better for the makeup lover on your holiday shopping list than gifting them with Pat McGrath.
Whether they’re wellness enthusiasts or matcha lovers, this trio from Golde will undoubtedly be used before 2025.
For the art lovers on your list, we recommend giving them the coffee table book Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure.
I can vouch that unwrapping anything from the Black-owned beauty brand Ami Colé is bound to land you on their nice list for life.
Founded by the former stylist Neumi Anekhe, Oma the Label specializes in affordable yet quality jewelry that anyone on your list would be overjoyed to receive.
For fragrance lovers, you’ll want to scoop up a discovery scent set from the Black-owned brand Chris Collins.
Everyone has that one friend obsessed with candles, so turn them on to this Black-owned brand.
You know that auntie who always has her nails done? Give her the gift of great at-home manicures with this nail lacquer from the Black-owned beauty brand Deborah Lippmann.
Keep your favorite curly-haired cutie’s coils in check with this detox scalp set from Bread Beauty Supply.
Do you know that person on your list who lives by their beauty routine? This lip scrub set from KNC Beauty is the perfect stocking stuffer.
It doesn’t get better for art, fashion, and home décor lovers than coffee table books, which is why Nadine Ijewere’s newest photo collection ranks high on our list. Not only was she the first Black woman to shoot a cover for Vogue, but the London-born photographer showcases the beauty of the Black diaspora.
You can’t go wrong with thoughtful personalized jewelry, especially when it’s from the Black- and female-owned brand Ten Wilde.
Not exactly sure what to get for the person who has everything? Try opting for the conversation-starting card games from the Black-owned brand Actually Curious. It’s a thought-provoking gift that can help spark some interesting dialogue.
Another simple but practical gift idea for anyone who keeps their edges and hair always on point is a gorgeous wrap from Black-owned brand The Wrap Life.
For the skincare lover in your life, gifting them with this brightening set from the Black-owned skincare line Eadem is a must.
Four words: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna. Frankly, that's all you need to say (or gift) this season to impress them.
Under $150
Remember when Michelle Obama stunned the world with her Vote Necklace? It was from Bychari. And it happens that you can give your loved one a pair of initial studs.
For the niece or friend who follows politics and fashion, the best gift ideas touch both of their interests. This bag from the Black-owned, Los Angeles–based clothing line Cise is the perfect gift as the brand continues to donate to HBCU C.A.R.E.S. and the Anti Racism Fund.
Who What Wear editors live for rising brands, and Sammy B is at the top of our holiday wish lists.
Shopping for someone with sensitive skin? Opting for Topicals' signature product duo is never a bad move.
For the jewelry collector on your list, another small, New York–based jewelry brand to have on your radar is Yam NYC, which specializes in upcycled, stylish pieces. Gifting anything from this Black-owned brand is a surefire way to impress.
The person on your list who has curly hair? Give them some new specially formulated products to try. I can personally attest to how much they’ll love it.
Oh, you thought this was a gift guide just for adults? I'm telling you your favorite niece will love this cardigan from the Black-owned fashion brand Hanifa.
Looking for a gift for the more sustainable and ethically minded shopper on your list? Soko jewelry is a must, as the brand works with Kenyan artisans to produce each piece and source metals locally and ethically.
Anyone who lives for their skincare routine will love receiving this set from the Black-owned brand Hanahana Beauty.
Are you searching for an impactful gift idea? Look no further than a CBD bath soak set from Homebody. They’re great for anyone who's dealing with stress or anxiety. (Hey, who isn’t these days?)
A Black-owned eyewear brand you should have on your radar? Elisa Johnson. The brand's ability to give classic frames a cool twist makes them a must-shop.
Your loved ones who frequent the barbershop will appreciate this shaving set from Black-owned grooming company Bevel. It's basically a barbershop in a kit.
For those who are music and jewelry fanatics, there's no better gift idea than this book archiving the intersection of the hip-hop and fine-jewelry industries.
The homebody on your list will love anything from the Black-owned brand Ekua Ceramics.
Searching for a sustainable gift idea? Look no further than the Black-owned footwear brand Løci.
Under $350
Looking for a gift that will leave their jaw on the floor? Look no further than Brandon Blackwood's sought-after accessories.
Breaking into the fashion industry is no easy feat, which is why it’s crucial to support up-and-coming designers. One brand to keep an eye on is Kimeze. Founded by two British Ugandan sisters, the brand specializes in eyewear that any style-savvy person will appreciate.
You’d never guess that a political science major would be behind one of the most budding demi-fine and fine-jewelry brands of the moment, but that’s Jameel Mohammed’s story. Founded in 2016, Khiry creates the perfect jewelry for any occasion, including the holiday season.
So you’ve made it this far, and you might still be wondering, "What should I get my best friend?” For your most stylish pal, we recommend a piece from rising unisex brand K.ngsley. We promise it won’t disappoint.
If you’re looking for a fashionable yet practical gift idea, look no further than these sneakers from Wales Bonner. The sneakerhead in your life will thank you.
For the wine lover on your list, a stunning set of luxury, hand-blown, colored glassware from the Black-owned brand Estelle is the perfect gift.
This bag is perfect for the most trend-obsessed person on your gift list.
Demi-fine and fine jewelry are not typically spaces you’d expect to see Black founders, but the New York–based couple and co-designers Kristin and Kofi Essel are changing that with their brand named Third Crown. Designing both men’s and women’s jewelry, they’ve been spotted on shows like Insecure and will be appreciated by jewelry lovers in your life.
For the minimalist in your life who loves a basic wardrobe piece, this oversized knit is the perfect gift idea. But what makes this piece even more remarkable is that it’s from a Toronto-based Black-owned brand, so you can feel good gifting it.
For the person on your list who’s always going somewhere fancy, you’ll want to give them something from Andrea Iyamah.
Searching for the perfect gift for the person in your life who could easily give Rihanna a run for her money? Opt for a bedazzled, one-of-a-kind do-rag from Los Angeles–based designer CheyenneKimora.
For the fashion person on your list, opting for a rising brand like Kai Collective is a surefire way to get their attention.
What happens when a former stylist starts her own brand? You get Petit Kouraj. Creating hand-knitted handbags that rival art, this Black-owned brand has become beloved by fashion girls and is a great gift idea for anyone who loves unique pieces.
If you’re trying to nail down the cool auntie label, then gifting from the Amsterdam-based Daily Paper is necessary. The Black-owned and -designed brand specializes in contemporary pieces that range from classic to trendy, making it the prime place to find a present.
Renowned for its brightly-hued and bold print pieces, BruceGlen is the perfect gift for those who need a dose of fun.
If you’re trying to attain those auntie vibes, then giving or gifting anything from Telfar is a surefire way to win big. I promise you this is a gift that the most fashionable person on your list will love (if you can get your hands on it).
Whether you know they need a good pair of jeans or you need a new pair, Good American is a great place to start for all your denim gifting needs.
Are you shopping for someone who considers themselves the real-life version of Toni Childs or Carrie Bradshaw? Well, there's no better place to shop than Arch NYC. Founded by Jazmin Veney in 2018, the brand's fun approach to footwear makes it a fan-favorite among the fashion crowd.
If you’re looking for a simple gift for the man in your life, don’t fret. Turning to the Black-founded brand Off-White is a no-fail resource for everything from cardholders to cool kicks.
Do you know the person who's the embodiment of Cali-cool vibes? Give them something from the brand Honor the Gift and watch them lose their cool.
The flyest person on your gift list who always comes serving a look? Gift them with an Homage Year bag. I can guarantee you’ll be their favorite relative.
There's no better place to shop for the boldest person in your life this holiday season than from the small Black-owned brand, Theophilio. Founded by the Jamaican-American designer Edvin Thompson in 2016, it's become beloved by the fashion crowd for it's innovative reimagining of everyday staples.
Splurge
Yes, that family member definitely has good genes, but they also probably have an incredible skincare regimen. If you know they appreciate great products but aren’t sure where to start, then we highly recommend this set from Shani Darden.
Trust me when I say the next It bag is coming from Black-owned handbag brand Ree Projects. Made in Italy, the luxury brand's pieces have become beloved for their unique shapes.
Based out of Los Angeles, fine-jewelry brand White/Space is one to watch. Not only is it Black-owned, but also it sources ethically made materials and leans on an array of artisans based in the United States.
Editors, fashion girls, and posh women around the world love Tove studio. If you’re looking for a gift they'll wear for years to come, then this wool-blend coat is perfect.
Got a well-traveled person on your list? Gift them with a piece from the label Nia Thomas. They'll wear this every time they travel and think of you.
Shopping for someone who loves vintage? You'll want to gift them with a piece from House of Aama, which draws inspiration from the past to honor the full diaspora of the Black experience.
Fe Noel has long been a fan favorite among fashion girls, and this chic robe makes for the perfect piece to gift yourself before a tropical vacation.
At the helm leading change in the fashion industry, Brother Vellies designer Aurora James is someone you’ll want to watch (and support). She not only founded the Fifteen Percent Pledge, which is calling for more Black-owned brands to be supported across the fashion industry, but each piece created by her label is also handmade by African artisans.
The best gifts often are handmade, like this bag from Anima Iris. The rising luxury Black-owned handbag brand not only is sustainable and operates off a zero-waste model, but also each classic piece is handcrafted by professionals in Senegal, resulting in a thoughtful bag from its conception to when you gift someone with it.
Who wouldn't want to unwrap a Christopher John Rogers piece?
Luxury lovers everywhere would be hard-pressed to pretend like they didn’t write a letter to Santa asking for a Balmain piece designed by the house's Black creative director.
If you're considering gifting yourself a few new staples this holiday season, considering investing in some of the well-tailored suiting separates from Sergio Hudson.
You know the woman on your list who always looks like she could have starred in an episode of Girlfriends or Sex and the City? Well, gifting her with something from Black-owned luxury accessory brand Kendall Miles is bound to get you an invite to the next brunch date.
The best art comes from the most unexpected places, and that is very much true of the Jamaican-born founder and designer Matthew Harris of Mateo. Specializing in fine jewelry using diamonds and precious stones for men and women, this brand gives meaning to the phrase wearable art.
There's no better gift you can give yourself than investing in pieces you can wear for a lifetime—e.g., this stunning holiday-ready satin coat from Harbison.
Give yourself the gift of looking good at every single holiday party by investing in one of LaQuan Smith's sultry pieces.
Leave it to the Black-owned luxury footwear brand Nalebe to make the perfect party shoes.
Let’s be real—diamonds are a dream gift. And why not make their dreams come true while also supporting the Black-owned fine-jewelry brand Harwell Godfrey?
Hailing from Johannesburg, Thebe Magugu is arguably one of the most exciting rising Black-owned ready-to-wear labels right now.
For the most eclectic person on your list, the best place to shop is the made-to-order brand Edas. Specializing in unique accessories and home goods, you can find a piece they’re bound to love.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Jasmine Fox-Suliaman is a fashion editor living in New York City. What began as a hobby (blogging on Tumblr) transformed into a career dedicated to storytelling through various forms of digital media. She started her career at the print publication 303 Magazine, where she wrote stories, helped produce photo shoots, and planned Denver Fashion Week. After moving to Los Angeles, she worked as MyDomaine's social media editor until she was promoted to work across all of Clique's publications (MyDomaine, Byrdie, and Who What Wear) as the community manager. Over the past few years, Jasmine has worked on Who What Wear's editorial team, using her extensive background to champion rising BIPOC designers, weigh in on viral trends, and profile stars such as Janet Mock and Victoria Monét. She is especially interested in exploring how art, fashion, and pop culture intersect online and IRL.
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