Top 10 Black Designers to Elevate Your Wardrobe This Holiday Season

It’s shopping season, whether you’re giving yourself something incredible, updating your wardrobe, or buying gifts for loved ones. Yes, winter’s buttery soft leather pants, chic cable-knit sweaters, and oversized wool coats are calling. However, this holiday shopping season is also an excellent opportunity to advocate for more diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry. Therefore, while filling online shopping carts, reflect on how you can shop more equitably; in addition to visiting your favorite retailers, introduce new luxury brands to your rotation, starting with these eight Black designers.

Christopher John Rogers

Move over minimalism. Christopher John Rogers, the 2021 CFDA American Womenswear Designer of the Year, is bringing bold, statement-making clothes to the mainstream. His exuberant designs, in saturated hues and couture-like shapes, are a refreshing change to winter neutrals. Moreover, the Baton Rouge-born, Brooklyn-based designer landed a Target collection in 2021, dressed celebrities like Lady Gaga and Adele, and outfitted both Michelle Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris—most notably in a vibrant purple coat and dress for the historic 2021 inauguration ceremony.

Theophilio

Bring some sunshine into your closet. Designer Edvin Thompson, the creative force behind Theophilio and recipient of the 2021 CFDA American Emerging Designer of the Year award, crafts sustainable clothes inspired by his home country, Jamaica. Since launching the label in 2016, his roots strongly influence the color palette (Caribbean shades along with a good dose of red, green, and gold, representing the Rastafarian flag), fabrics (sexy mesh and crochet knits), and silhouettes (body-hugging catsuits, breezy culottes, and cutout dresses) of his buzzworthy and eco-friendly collections.

Fear of God

Nuanced details separate frumpy loungewear from elevated Americana. It’s something Jerry Lorenzo understands well, and he’s built his Los Angeles-based label, Fear of God, to cult status by crafting french terry pieces with perfect cuts. His languid silhouettes drape to perfection for a subtler luxury and effortless sophistication all at once. Consequently, if the price point for his main line is too steep, try his lower-priced Essentials label. But fair warning, set your alarm because the Essentials drops sell out in an instant.

LaQuan Smith

LaQuan Smith is empowering women to embrace their curves with attention-commanding creations. The designer’s unapologetically provocative clothes—from head-turning catsuits to body-hugging separates—are a favorite among risk-takers, including Hailey Bieber, Beyonce, the Kardashians, and Rihanna. While the Queens native is expanding his glamorous label beyond eveningwear, strong lines and sensuality remain at the core of the brand’s DNA.

Pyer Moss

Designer Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss focuses on more than typical fashion; he leverages the runway as a platform for activism. From Black cowboys in the 19th century to Sister Rosetta Tharpe, his collections resonate with the Black American experience, enhancing awareness through impactful storytelling.

Brother Vellies

Whether searching for sexy lace-up sandals, bold black-and-white cow hair boots, or breezy handwoven Huarache slip-ons, Brother Vellies is a go-to for statement-making accessories. Founder Aurora James created her brand based on traditional African designs and techniques. Moreover, she launched the 15 Percent Pledge, advocating for major retailers like Sephora and Bloomingdale’s to commit to stocking 15 percent of their inventory from Black-owned businesses. For her efforts, she received The Founder’s Award at the 2021 CFDA ceremony.

Telfar

Designer Telfar Clemens has been in fashion since 2005, but his Telfar Shopping Bag became a sensation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Coined as “the Bushwick Birkin” among creative Brooklynites, this ‘it’ bag of 2020 is beloved, selling out in minutes each time it’s released. The brand’s inclusive motto, “Not for you, for everyone,” embodies its ethos.

Heron Preston

After Raf Simons’ high-fashion turn at Calvin Klein, the brand sought Heron Preston to enhance their cool factor. His spring 2021 collection for Calvin Klein elevated everyday staples (t-shirts, underwear, hoodies) into stylish silhouettes. Moreover, sustainability drives Preston’s mission; his collection used recycled materials, blending fashion with environmental responsibility. Outside of Calvin Klein, Preston continues to innovate with his eponymous brand.

Brandon Blackwood

Brandon Blackwood’s viral “End Systemic Racism” bag launched in July 2020, propelling his brand to newfound success. Shortly after its release, celebrity endorsements from influencers like Kim Kardashian further amplified its popularity. Blackwood skillfully engages with his customer base on social media, allowing customizable options and promoting his new releases effectively.

Virgil Abloh

Virgil Abloh passed away on Nov. 28, 2021, at age 41. As the creative director of Louis Vuitton and founder of Off___White, Abloh left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. His vision endures through Off___White and Louis Vuitton’s pieces, continuing to inspire those who value creativity and innovation in fashion.