Black-Owned Brands to Help You Transition into Summer Society

Silk tie corset look from Fe Noel’s 2019 Resort Collection. Photo: fenoel.com

Here at The Psychology of Fashion, we talk a lot about the benefits of self-knowledge and how to apply that wisdom to your wardrobe using the Big 5 Personality Test, also known as OCEAN (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extroversion, Agreeableness and Neuroticism). Often, we begin by envisioning the aspirational version of ourselves that we want to achieve with styling. We think of certain goals we want to reach; which part of our personality will help us achieve our goals and how we can use our wardrobe to draw out these desirable traits in our daily lives. Say you score low on conscientiousness, the trait that helps you get shit done, and are in need of a pick-me-up while working from home. This is when pulling out a collared shirt from your wardrobe, to wear during work hours, would be apt, as the classically dutiful style would propel you out of your slump. It tells you that you are someone who gets shit done, and makes you feel and act accordingly.

Now that it’s summer (and roughly our fourth month into lockdown), our goals may be shifting from navigating work-from-home life to heading out for a socially distanced day at the beach or picnic in the park. Many of us, out of social shape from being isolated, will want to invoke extroversion more than ever, as we slowly re-enter from self-isolation. Extroversion, the need to socialize and go outward, can be invoked by wearing bright colors, patterns and statement pieces. Many of these styles and more can be found in the list below, which brings us to our next focus. 

While we envision ourselves socializing and moving forward, it’s important we keep in mind the conversations that have circled online and in the fashion industry around sustainability, supporting small businesses and most importantly right now, supporting Black-owned businesses and Black fashion brands in particular. With this, you may want to consider how you can implement your values into the visualization of your stylized self. This requires some research on your end as the consumer, but finding and supporting brands that align with your values and aspirations is ultimately worthwhile. So, here’s a non-exhaustive list of five Black-owned fashion brands that you can buy from to help you transition into summertime and slowly back into post-Covid society. 

CUSHNIE

Sleek looks from the brand’s Fall/Winter 2020 collection. Photo: cushnie.com

This bridalwear and clothing company was founded by Carly Cushnie in 2008 and features high-end, minimalist designs. Cushnie knows her customer is looking for, “timeless silhouettes that make her feel sexy, sophisticated and powerful — all at once." With ultra-feminine and sleek styles, this label is perfect for those looking to elevate their nights indoors or for someone who is getting ready to start hosting small, intimate gatherings in their backyard.  

Slashed by Tia

Adeola’s sheer organza garb contrasted against the loft backdrop, for the brand’s editorial campaign. Photo: slashedbytia.net

With organza designs inspired by the Renaissance period, this label, founded by Teni “Tia” Adeola, has caught the attention of many and has been worn by the likes of Kali Uchis and Gigi Hadid. Adeola’s ruffle-centric designs are a match for someone looking to elevate their wardrobe with colorful and eye-catching pieces. For now, the brand is focusing on veils and facemasks, which are both bound to add some flair to your day, whether you’re hanging out on Zoom or going to a picnic in the park.  

Babes and Felines

Babes and Felines CEO, Ciera Rogers pictured for the press. Photo: rollingout.com

Here’s one for those of you who love to show off a bit of waist-to-hip ratio. This label was founded by Ciera Rogers in 2012 with the goal of creating a line of clothing for women that celebrates curves. The brand is already making waves on social media, as it’s been worn by the Kardashian sisters and is currently being praised by fans as the alternative option to shop at, instead of fast fashion companies like Fashion Nova and Pretty Little Thing. Rogers’ Leisure Collection is the ideal garb for this transitional time, whether you’re driving to Fire Island or simply couch surfing. 

Brother Vellies

The brand’s fur sandals and shearling mules on display. Photo: thecoveteur.com

Inspired by traditional African pieces, and founded by Aurora James, this cult-brand is perfect for afternoons strolling between your local bodega and florist shop or spicing up nights inside with music and a homemade Southside. From blush colored lace-up huaraches, Yin Yang shearling boots, feather accented pumps to cowhide handbags - this brand’s designs are bound to satisfy wants of someone who scores high on openness and extroversion. I.E. You’re a smart city chick with a similarly woke circle. 

Fe Noel

Red ensemble featured in Fe Noel’s lookbook, for her “Daughter of the Soil” Resort 2020 Collection. Photo: fenoel.com

Looking though Fe Noel’s lookbook will make you want you to book a one-way trip to Madagascar. Founded by Brooklyn-based designer, Fe Noel, the namesake brand’s designs are inspired by her “passion for travel, a love of vibrant colors and a penchant for prints,” which makes them ideal for you if you scores high on openness; driven by a taste for eccentric looks and sense of wanderlust. A standout piece with power sleeves such as Noel’s Midnight Puff Sleeve Bodysuit is perfect for pretty much anything, but particularly good for a day spent driving along the countryside. Think of the selfies.

Bonus: Look Out for Tayma Martins’ Debut Line

Polaroids of Tayma Martins, released on her Instagram as a preview for her clothing line. Photo: @TaymaMartins on Instagram

This up-and-coming designer, Tayma Martins, promises a clothing line inspired by the 70s and her love of “vintage prairie dresses, pastel cotton candy colors, wildflowers” and California’s natural terrain (which really won the heart of yours truly, an LA native). Her dresses are primed to be perfect for those who fall higher on agreeableness – the friendly trait. If you  dream of spending afternoons journaling in Northern California’s meadows with friends, and never arguing at all, this one’s for you.

Knowing your personality traits will help you figure out which styles reflect your deepest sense of self and knowing where your clothes come from helps you align these styles with your values. So, whether you envision yourself as more of a runway-esque city slicker or see yourself keeping it casual by the coast, it’s important to remember the provenance of your clothing when you’re getting ready to purchase it. Feel free to follow the link to our personality test below to find out your Big 5 Personality Traits scores.  

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