26 Black Fashion Designers That Should Be on Your Radar

Kerby Jean-Raymond created Pyer Moss in 2013 and his collections often celebrate Black history.

Chances are you’ve probably seen Aurora James’s gorgeous Brother Vellies designs (like the fuzzy heels she’s wearing in this photo here!) The accessory brand was created in 2013 “with the goal of keeping traditional African design practices and techniques alive while also creating and sustaining artisanal jobs.”

Christopher John Rogers is a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner who is known for creating colorful often theatrical designs, including Kamala Harris’s purple inauguration coat.

Rihanna has two fashion lines: her luxury line Fenty and her affordable lingerie line Savage x Fenty. With Fenty, Rihanna became the first Black woman to create an original brand for with luxury conglomerate LVHM.

Telfar Clemens started Telfar in 2003, and the brand has a cult following, thanks to its sleek logo bag which has been dubbed “Buschwick’s Birkin.” The brand’s motto pretty much sums up its aesthetic: “It’s not for you – it’s for everyone.”

Tracy Reese is known for creating dreamy, feminine dresses. Her designs are beloved by many, including former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Anifa Mvuemba’s size-inclusive label, Hanifa, is inspired by Congo. Her collection includes bold, feminine pieces ranging from sizes 0-20.

Haitian-born designer Victor Glemaud launched his eponymous brand in 2006. The designer is known for reworking classic knitwear pieces.

Jason Rembert is a celebrity stylist with clients like Issa Rae, Rita Ora, and Marsai Martin. His luxury label, Aliétte, is inspired by his mother and the nuances of womanhood.

Public School is a New York City-based brand known for its streetwear-infused pieces. The brand was started by Maxwell Osborne and Dao-Yi Chow in 2008 and supports local tailors and pattern-makers.

Heron Preston’s streetwear pieces are inspired by both art and music. The designer is also a well-known DJ on the side.

LaQuan Smith started his label in 2013, and his statement-making pieces have been worn on the red carpet by celebrities like Winnie Harlow, Beyoncé, and Rihanna.

Although she’s lived in LA for about a decade, Brea’s Detroit upbringing heavily influences her work, which she describes as “comfortable confidence with an edge.” Stinson Haus’s loose, two-piece ensembles have a certain coolness, her outwear is embellished with glitzy baubles, and her fabrics are infused with vivacity.

Founded 2010 by Amaka Osakwe, Maki Oh is a womenswear brand that uses traditional African techniques and blends them with contemporary construction. The brand has been worn by Lupita Nyong’o and Solange Knowles, to name a few.

Brooklyn-born Romeo Hunte started his eponymous contemporary brand in 2014. The designer focuses on statement outerwear pieces that strike a balance between being edgy and sophisticated.

In 2013, Nigerian fashion designer Dumebi Iyamah launched her swimwear line Andrea Iyamah. The pieces are inspired by “color, ethnic cultures, nature, and design elements.” Since its launch in 2013, the brand has moved into ready-to-wear pieces as well.

Laurence Basse was a finalist on Project Runway season 15. The designer’s work has appeared on everyone from NBA player Dwight Howard to actress Gina Rodriguez.

Thebe Magugu was the first Black designer to win the LVHM prize in the competition’s seven-year history. The designer focuses on women’s ready-to-wear and has committed to producing all of his pieces in South Africa.

Kenneth Ize collaborates with artisans and weavers across Nigeria to help create his colorful designs. The brand is devoted to the long-established traditions of Nigerian craft and local artisans.