BIPOC / Queer / Woman Owned Small Businesses
I’ve compiled a list of some of my favourite items from some incredible small businesses. It’s a vast array of gorgeous gifting options from glassware, to candles, to poetry, to make up + skincare. Show these businesses some love as you give gifts to those you love.
Buffalo Wallet - $175.00
Indigenous + Black-owned Lotus + Layne based on Navajo land makes gorgeous leather goods from wallets to bags to keychains in a range of both intricate styles and simple colours. I think it may be time for a wallet upgrade for myself…
Proper Gnar Not Fragile Skateboard Deck - $70.00
Grab one of Black-owned shop Proper Gnar’s sick boards, or a print with one of their designs on it, or even a sweatshirt if you never want to part with it.
Cierra Top + Morgan Bottom both in Mud by Zon Swim- $168.00 for the set
Zon Swim was founded in by Emily Amber, a fellow SoCal Native, in the Spring of 2020. They do their best to create their swimsuits sustainably, both through fair wages & ethical sourcing. The designs are sleek and provide the perfect mix of modern and nostalgia with the cuts.
King Kesia Art “She Who Dares” - ranging from $43.00 to $293.00 depending on size and print type
This incredible Black femme artist’s goal is to “explore these themes of evolving forms, inner gods, and the patchwork of materials we use to become whole." Purchase a print or if you’re feeling fancy, get an original.
R.I.P. Pearl + Chain choker - $85.00
These handmade necklaces from Black + Femme owned shop My Neck Game Strong are to die for (pun intended.) I personally own two pieces from this shop and they’re my most complimented items. They drop new pieces every Friday and are also open for customs so let your imagination run wild.
Mesh Seamless Set - $68.00
Black Woman owned activewear + lifestyle brand Bellaria is making activewear affordable! They stock everything to keep you on the move from yoga sets to luggage and even a collection of antique jewelry!
Harlem Candle Co. “Speakeasy” Luxury Ceramic Candle - $90.00
This Black woman owned business is based in New York City and churns out some gorgeous scent combinations all paying homage to her time with her grandmother in Harlem, their shared love of Jazz and their shared memories.
Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil - $112.00
Omayma Skin, Founded by makeup artist Omayma Ramzy. With more than 10 years in the beauty industry, she cultivated her knowledge and love for clean + organic skincare and now gets to unite this passion with her Egyptian heritage.
Butterfly Messages Necklace - $45.00
Rooted in tradition, Xio by Ylette blends classic and trendy styles inspired by her culture to make you feel powerful, beautiful, aligned and confident. Give the subscription box a check out for yourself while you’re gifting…
PHLEMUNS Backless Mesh Tank - $68.00
Founded by James Flemons in 2013, Phlemuns is a Black-owned fashion label based in Los Angeles. Born out of a desire to bridge the gap between elevated fashion and everyday communities, the unisex brand adopts an inclusive ‘slow-fashion’ approach, meticulously crafting each collection with intentional design and accessibility in mind.
Estelle Coloured Wine Stemware (set of 6) - $175.00
Stephanie Summerson Hall continued her grandmother’s tradition of fine dining, fine food and fine company with this namesake shop. This Black-owned business specializes in glassware in the most stunning shades ranging from smokey grays to soothing pastels. If you’re not sure what colour your loved one would want, they offer gift cards of each item.
Divine Feminine Embroidery Classic Balconette Bra - $213.72 (£160.00)
IHUOMA is a luxury lingerie brand that celebrates the beauty of the modern Black Woman. The aim is to empower women of colour to find their divine femininity, be bold about their sensuality and the possibilities that arise from living their true self, unapologetically!
The Dashing Faux Leather Pillow - ranging from $58.00 to 70.00 based on size
Originally From New York City, Chantal Bradley Grew Up With A Passion For Interior Design And Started Modish Decor Pillows In Late 2015. She Provides Products That Symbolize Her Posh Style In Home Decor. Looking for pillows of every patten? She’s got them. Maybe some coasters? She’s got them too.
Tito Sunglasses - $60.00
The Silverroom is a Black-owned shop and marketplace for independent designers. Silverroom is a Chicago Institution and brand whose mission is to create a global community through art, community, and culture. Their inventory is vast and chock full of incredible items ranging from simple to extravagant.
“I Need You To Know” ABCs of Black Girl Magic colouring book - $10.00
Lora McClain-Muhammad’s series “depicts our children beautifully from their skin complexion to their hair type.” The book is educational and have encouraging words from A-Z. These coloring books have proven to speak to diversity through coloring when shared with children of all backgrounds! She even offers “The ABCs of a Young King's Greatness.”
Brazilian Black Amethyst Freeform - $116.00
This Black-owned crystal shop has some of the most gorgeous beauties I’ve ever seen. Cassandra energetically cleanses and reiki infuses each stone for you and who doesn’t need that right now? If you see one you like, get it quick because they sell fast.
“Menace” Hoodie - $90.00
SoupLvr is a Queer Latinx run shop. Ari makes some cute queer-centric designs for shirts and hoodies. They also offer tattoo commissions for a design of theirs!
Body Candle - $12.00
With a range of figure sizes and unique non-body candle shapes Black owned + family operated My Neutral Garden has that conversation-starting candle that borders on art piece. They also has beautiful vases, car charm diffusers.
Caro Caro - Prices start around $150+
Alina the owner of Caro Caro Jewelry had managed to curate the most insanely gorgeous collection of vintage + estate jewelry just for us. So kind! This Queer + POC owned shop drops new pieces frequently so follow her to never miss the ring or chain of your dreams.
Pride Liner Bundle - $105.00 $50.00
Fluide is a mission-driven beauty brand that creates vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free cosmetics designed for all skin shades and gender expressions. With a team behind the scenes full of BIPOC and Queer folks as well as represented heavily in their campaigns Fluide is really here for the community. Their make up is loud and proud and I love it.
Modern Day print - $30.00 for 8x10
Adrienne "Madam" Muse is a self taught visual artist + illustrator, muralist, and designer born in Florida and currently based in Los Angeles whose love for portraiture exploded her art career. I just discovered her work and I’m absolutely enamoured by the talent and the message.
Culture Flock Zodiac Tee - $32.00
This cute queer run shop has a multitude of things from prints, to candles, to apparel like this Zodiac tee with sizes up to 2XL. They even have matching Zodiac candles!
All You Wanted Bralette - $84.00
The End Lingerie is one of my favourite brands for the last few years. I own a bunch and it makes me feel so powerful. A POC + Femme owned, certified eco friendly company making tasteful lingerie to wear anywhere.
“Power” Pure Copper Nose Cuff - $10.00
PositiveNrGems was started by Bryttani Ford as a conduit to send intentions of “Happiness, Healing, Abundance & Prosperity” to people. This Black woman owned business is stocked with handmade wire + crystal jewelry thats truly breathtaking.
Easy Care Androgynous Dress Shirt - $150.00
Kirrin Finch is a queer owned and focused brand based in Brooklyn. The inspiration for the business was borne out of the founders’ own frustration at being unable to find clothes that match their personal style while also fitting how they desired. So they set out to design menswear-inspired apparel designed to fit a range of female and non-binary bodies and they succeeded.
Fresh + Clean Beard set - $39.99
Sons of Hollis was founded in 2015 with the intention to cater specifically to the needs of Black folks in their grooming routine. They all felt no other grooming brand cared for their textured hair, so they took their care into their own hands.
Emerald Bracelet - $47.00
Simone The Label has beautiful jewelry that feel beautiful on your wallet as well. Sydney Simone started STL as a purpose driven, socially conscious, fine, fashion + jewelry brand with a focus on creative content by minority/BIPOC makers in fashion. Birthed during the pandemic she’s thriving now.
Listen Closely 5✶ shirt - $80.00
One of my favourite designers whose pieces I never manage to purchase before they’re sold out. They’re pieces of art so beautifully and uniquely crafted by hand. Check out their shop 8Palms and their instagram @surprisinghealthbenefits to keep track of the latest drops.
Blade + Bloom Rich Salt Soak/Fresh Feels - $28.00
Blade + Bloom is a Black woman owned business specializing in 100% natural, high-quality, plant-based skincare that is handmade in small batches by hand in Chicago.
Alamar Cosmetics Divine Complexion Bundle - $72.50 $86.00
I love this brand and buy their lipliner every month because I wear it daily. Believe me when I say every single product from this Cuban + female owned business, inspired by her birthplace in Cuba, is major.
Lambskin Bonnet in Black - $288.00
Clyde is a New York City-based label designed by Vancouver native Dani Griffiths. Her hats, in particular, possess a sculptural beauty while maintaining a straightforward wearability– and for the first time I’m upset I don’t have the head for hats.
Red Toile Mini Tote - $45.00
I have many of Maya’s pieces and I’m in awe of her creativity constantly. She hand-makes every piece with the utmost love and care. Support this stellar young Black creative + make your loved ones even cuter in a hat, mask, bag, scrunchie or top while you’re at it.
Multi-Tasker Holiday Kit - $69.00
Noto Botanics is a Queer Femme owned company that focuses on clean vegan ingredients, community support + queer expression through skincare + make up. Their products are so gorgeous and easy to use and multipurpose. Bonus- a percentage of sales of their Agender Oil is donated back into the community.
Many Shapes Throw - $200.00
Kenesha Sneed of the Black-owned shop Tactile Matter churns out some incredible designs in throw blanket + art print form. Her nature designs are warm and inviting and her depictions of Black women in all forms are just gorgeous. Fun fact: She is also a stellar ceramicist
Lit Noir Matchstick Single Earring 18K plated - $160.00
Johnny Nelson draws inspiration from his diverse artistic and cultural experiences that merge UK punk, hip-hop, and spirituality. The line heavily focuses on statement pieces that spark conversation amongst consumers. Be sure to check out his incredible selection of iconic figure rings.
Partner Intimacy Intention Ritual Kit - $46.00
UnitedOther aspires to bridge the widening divide between sacred rituals and the modern world by honoring the primary and natural technologies of our ancestors. Ellen Nguyen, a 1st Gen Asian American, launched in 2017 and has made her passion for connection and spirituality into her career. Check out the stunning Intentions Deck too!
Custom Letter Bracelet - range from $159.00 - $600.00 depending on customization
Automic Gold is a Queer owned brand that centers representation year round in front and behind the camera. All pieces are made from reclaimed and recycled gold. They have yellow, white and rose gold in all their styles!
Columbia Robe Set - $185.00 $140.00
First of all- I’m in love with this unisex robe and boxers set. Now about the brand! Her Story is a Black-owned, vintage-inspired nighttime apparel company that helps people to feel confident, bold & powerful while encouraging them to make loving themselves a priority. Their ribbed bra + biker short sets are a must.
Lemongrass Shae Butter - $26.00
Theres so much to love about this Black-owned + run brand. Their products are made with shea butter directly from the Katariga Women's Shea Cooperative in Ghana with a vision of uplifting women of color and always focusing on sustainable direct sourcing.
Grunge pattern 8x10 Art Print - $15.00
This print from Alyissa Johnson is one of the many gorgeous design focused pieces in her shop. Alyissa is a Black graphic + jewelry designer in Kansas City. Check out the earrings she makes too!
Webbed Belt - $60.00
Created with intention, Au + Ag is a Black Owned, sustainable, unisex lifestyle brand that represents for the free-thinkers. With a range of sleek yet simple jewelry, clothing and homegoods theres something for anyone and everyone here.
Curl Mix Pure Flaxseed Gel Sampler Box - $59.00 79.00
Who doesn’t love a sampler platter? This is a sample box of Black-owned Curl Mix’s best selling product specifically designed to set and style your curls, waves or coils to perfection.
Holiday Plaid Toggle Cape - $75.00
Terrence Williams is a self-taught Black queer designer, make up artist and content creator who hopes to inspire people to live their truth with everything he does. Terrance focuses on creating beautiful, expressive and quality pieces, but in a way and with materials that support a sustainable life style.
Jubilee Loose Leaf Tea - $18.00
This Black-owned sustainably sourced tea company sells loose leaf teas for every mood and tea accessories to pair with. LaTonia began her tea making passion 15 years ago and it has grown into her career focusing on creating moments to recenter and balance our whole selves through rituals that allow us to adjourn.
Glosshood Holygloss - $22
This brand founded by Sienna, an incredible Black woman whom I actually went to high school with!
Rain Classic Candle - $16.00
This Chicago based Black-owned candle company offers beautiful scents hand poured in small batches. In 2017, Rachel Roberts started Lilly Grant Candle Studio to help others use candles as a mechanism for self-care, allowing them to relax + escape by candlelight.
Al Dente Queen Sheet Set - $169.00
Beditorial is a new line of home accessories created by Holly Falcone. With elements of delightful nostalgia to keep your home warm and fun. Keep your eyes peeled for their collab with Adam Selman coming soon.
Vintage Outdoor Vest - $30.00
BoardsAndBlunts is a Black run vintage shop that has a solid selection of the coolest vintage pieces, logo tees + unique finds. Theres some affordable gold in the shop right now, get it before someone else does.
Custom Butterfly Blade - $30.00 - $100.00
Lenee, a non-binary artist handmakes gorgeous resin art such as these blades and pendants and even tiny adorable floral filled bunny sculptures. They do drops periodically of their one of a kind pieces so grab what you can when you can.
Translucent Flame Hoops - $45.00
Yuuka Universe is the passion project of Elina Yuuka Oehlert, a young Japanese multidisciplinary artist. Elina begun playing with polymer clay as a child and now gets to make magnificent jewelry with it now as a young adult.
Pur Home All in One Cleaning Concentrate - $23.10
Dr Bronner’s who? This Black-owned home line focuses on sustainability and zero waste. All packaging is recyclable or compostable and the products contain no sulfates or harsh chemicals. Nothing like a clean home and a clean environment.
Pumpkin Enzyme Mask - $65.00
This actress turned photographer created the skincare line she had always hoped for being in front of the camera, and wanted to give to her subjects in front of her lens. In Your Face Skincare was featured in Vogue UK as their #1 beauty recommendation! Nothing like the gift of glowing skin.
Inperfections Custom pair - $149.00
This amazing young Black creative hand bleaches denim to your hearts desire. Check out the website for past designs and revel in their beauty.
Bathing Lady Dish - $40.00
Absolutely adore this queer femme run shop in Brooklyn. Perfectly curated with independent designers from all over. I’ve been drooling over this little dish for months now.
Silver Jewelry - Prices start around $59.00+
Studio Ebunoluwa is an homage to Marcellina Ebunoluwa Yejide’s ancestors. The brand is a namesake of her grandmother and she carries out the tradition of her Yoruba ancestors as a metalworker. All handmade these pieces are truly divine. Bonus- she also sells Jamaican Purple Sea Moss!