Make it More Than a Trend
By Brinlea La Barge
Like any other season, summer 2019 welcomed a flurry of fashion trends — some practical enough for the cooler temperatures, others gone as fast as they came — that infiltrated the closet of the modern consumer. Fierce animal prints, sweet puffed shoulders, bold neon, minibags, bike shorts, oversized hats, and tea-length dresses, all plucked straight from the runway. Matched with a favorite pair of cutoffs or light-wash jeans, each summer style served looks at any occasion, from afternoons on the beach to dinner parties.
Flash forward a year, and things look a little different. As coronavirus cases continue to rise across the country, confining millions of individuals to their homes, summer 2020 is almost unrecognizable. But maybe these lazy midsummer months — with a little retail therapy — could be more productive than they appear. With ample time to consider the social and political agenda of our favorite fashion brands, research a garment worker’s wage, or meander through a consignment store, this summer poses a unique opportunity to mend your wardrobe. One way to practice this mindful shopping strategy, right now and for good, is by supporting a more diverse community of fashion brands and designers.
From casual wear sets designed to keep you comfy at home or in the streets, to flutter-sleeve smocks that beg for a glass of rosé, we’ve put together a collection of styles that will have you fun and fresh for the remainder of the summer. More importantly, each clothing brand featured below is Black-owned, helping you support both the fashion industry and the Black Lives Matter movement.
1. Bucket-style bags: AAKS
Lisi Bucket, £136.
AAKS is a Ghanaian brand designed by Akosua Afriyie-Kumi to create job opportunities in Africa and to introduce unique weaving patterns to the fashion world. The brand’s handcrafted collection makes the perfect addition to any summer outfit, with bags starting at the price of £120 (around $150).
2. Casual wear: Phenomenal Woman
Phenomenally Soft Sweatshirt, $59
Whether you’re lounging in bed or heading to the streets in protest, look no further than Phenomenal Woman’s collection of hoodies and tees for your next ensemble. An action campaign designed to empower marginalized voices and bring awareness to social causes, Phenomenal Woman prints each piece with messages like “Black Lives Matter,” “I’m Gonna Win,” “Electable,” and “Phenomenal Voter.” The brand donates all proceeds to the Black Futures Lab, a national organization that works with Black communities to engender social change and build Black power.
3. High-waisted bikinis: Riot Swim
High-waisted bikini bottoms are hitting the beach in hordes this summer, and this Black-owned brand is leading the pack. Slip on the Vista Top and High Waist Bottom, available in two colors, for a sexy take on the summer’s most coveted style. Of course, if high-waisted bottoms aren’t your thing, you can still browse a variety of barely-there pairs on Riot Swim’s website.
4. Crochet resortwear: Elexiay
Pamela Set, $240
Elexiay’s colorful assortment of handmade and recyclable pieces are a must for the warm summer months. Celebrating Nigerian history and craftsmanship, the brand fashions sustainable crochet sets and tops that can be worn on and off the beach.
5. Statement earrings: Jam + Rico
Carmen Earrings, $75
Spice up any basic ensemble with a pair of Jam + Rico statement earrings, inspired by Jamaican and Puerto Rican culture. Operated by a group of Black women in New York City, Jam + Rico also offers a stunning selection of cuffs, necklaces, and more.
6. Tie-dye: Rich Girl Candy
Comfy Cozy Tie Dye Sweats, $80
Perhaps one of the only positive pieces of home isolation, the tie dye trend took off this spring when young women grabbed their bucket of bleach and headed outside for some DIY couture. But if you’ve decided to dry your hands from the bleach, instead invest in a pair of Rich Girl Candy tie dye oversized sweatpants, which are sure to satisfy your “fashion sweet tooth.”
7. Flutter sleeves: lemlem
Bahiri Flutter Sleeve Dress, $295
Adding the sweetest detail to any airy dress or blouse, flutter sleeves are here to stay this summer. Check out this pastel Bahiri Flutter Sleeve Dress from lemlem, an artisan collection of attire and home goods produced entirely in Africa, to soften your summer wardrobe. You can also donate to the lemlem Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to connecting African women to healthcare, education, and employment.
Photos via AAKS, Phenomenal Women, Riot Swim, Elexiay, Jam + Rico, Rich Girl Candy, lemlem, & Coco and Breezy