Helen Berkun

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BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT RIGHT NOW

Change is upon us and boy are we due for it. There are many ways to support the struggle against police brutality, promote justice, and fight for equality. The different options have been all over social media and the news but one sustainable and direct way to support the black community is to support black-owned businesses. Many of these recommendations are business owners I know, love, have worked with, and have supported for many years as well as businesses I've been introduced to over the last few days and can't wait to support.

FASHION

Riot Swim

Riot Swim is bathing suit heaven. Founded in 2016 by Monti Landers. Her collection of bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, and more are minimalist, sexy, and seriously chic.

Sincerely Nude

This fashion brand, founded by Michelle Asare, is home to beautiful designs in nude shades for skin tones typically ignored by other companies. She is all about empowerment regardless of color or size.

KÍLĖNTÁR

KÌLÉNTÀR is the kind of decadent style that I have been craving since I've been living in workout leggings. There is nothing minimal or understated about their designs and I'm living for it.

LaQuan Smith

LaQuan Smith is a gifted designer from Queens, New York. He started his line when he was 21 years old and has a strong celebrity following. The line is full of glamorous dresses and tops.

ACCESSORIES

AMINA MUADDI

Let me tell you. Amina Muaddi shoes are incredible. I have a couple of pairs of her decadent designs and am planning on snagging a couple more. They are designed in Paris and produced in Italy with an international heart.

Nogama Fine Jewelry

This is a stunning jewelry line created by Uwera Rodriguez, a mother, midwife, New Yorker. Her collection has pieces that are totally unique and breathtaking.

Rebecca Allen

I’m obsessed with her shoes and have several pairs. She makes the most PERFECT nude shoe and the best part is that she doesn't just make them in one nude, but a beautiful range of tones that match just about anyone. I also work with her and have several of her perfectly strapped sandals. Love her so much.

HOME

Bouffants and Broken Hearts

Kendra Dandy is the genius behind these beautiful paintings and prints - she makes printed throw pillows too! They're bold, colorful, and inspiring.

Claude Home

Claude Home is a fabulous source for vintage furniture, unique art and endless inspiration. Maggie Holladay is the founder and genius behind this exceptional brand.

Goodee

Twin brothers, Byron and Dexter Peart, have this amazing online marketplace that exclusively works with artisans and products that make a strong social or environmental impact. They're also a certified B-corp.

BEAUTY

The Lip Bar

The Lip Bar is a vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand that is shaking up the beauty industry. Melissa Butler, the founder, started the company by making lipstick in her kitchen. I have personally worked and supported this brand for years. One of my favorite beauty lines.

KNC Beauty

Founder of KNC Beauty, Kristen Noel Crawley, has found the golden formula for perfect, hydrated lips and has put that formula into a jelly-like lip mask that has me obsessed. Her products are all natural, good for you, and beautiful.

KIDS

Ava & Isa Handmade

This Etsy based designer makes timeless linen & cotton children’s wear that is just gorgeous. The garments look like something out of a painting.

HarperIman Dolls

This line of handmade linen keepsake dolls was created by Cynthia Watkins and Kathryn Burnett, a mother-daughter duo, in 2017. Many dolls that are readily available in big box stores don't show more than one look.

Le Petit Organic

Le Petit Organic specializes in vintage, organic, and eco-friendly clothing and accessories for children. It was founded in 2013 by Sanjay Smith, mother of 3. 

Pretty Please Teethers

I wish I had heard of Pretty Please Theethers when my kids were babies. All the products are a natural, minimalist and modern take on traditional teethers.

Did I miss any? Let me know over on Instagram and I will add to this post!

Listen. Educate. Be Kind.

Note: Some of these brands have paused taking new orders or have longer fulfillment times due to a surge in new orders. If they aren't taking new orders throw a bookmark on the page and come back!