Karine Laudort Indie brands are over-taking the big retailers bringing unique style to consumers globally. But what is an indie brand? Traditionally, it’s a term for an independently owned brand, but they have come to recognise an entrepreneur that pushes societal norms in terms of creativity and technology. With the recognition that Kay Flawless is now also listed on Black2Business, we would like to recommend a few handpicked black-owned indie brands for you to watch.
1. Amschela
Originating from the UK, Amschela focuses on the individual character of the contemporary woman. Their handbags seek to be an expression of the modern lifestyle with sleek and infused lines. The brand has just launched its first vegan line with the SS20 Thais Mini, an elegant crocodile print beauty in five magnetic colourways as it shifts focus to healthy living and producing products that do not involve cruelty to animals. Amschela bags are versatile, whether worn with city chic daywear or at more luxurious formal occasions. Amschela is an enchanting fusion of affordable luxury that is within reach for all women and celebrates female empowerment.
Instagram – @amschela
Facebook – @amschela
2. Victoria Lam
Victoria Lam is a lifestyle brand that draws its inspiration from Positive Inspiring messages. Art representing statements such as Romantic, Leader, Passion are infused subtly in sleek cut elegant designs. The heart logo emanates from Africa and is imprinted on each bag, it symbolises Love and Patience epitomising the character of our collections. Made in the UK with the finest sourced leather; they pride themselves to provide unique and inventive detail in each design. To empower….a bag should reflect the personality of the wearer.. inspire and be great.’ This ethos reflects the brand and its artisanal twist on classic handbags.
Instagram – @officialvictorialam
3. Kosibah
Yemi Osunkoya is the designer behind the Kosibah label. Established in 1991, Kosibah is an exclusive brand specialising in figure enhancing bespoke bridal, evening and formal daywear. Yemi’s signature use of corsetry and boned bodices cleverly recreates the classical and elegant hourglass figure, producing gowns that curve, shape and flatter the wearer. All gowns are made to measure. Based in NYC, and with a satellite Atelier in London, the team at Kosibah are committed to providing exceptional quality of service and meticulous attention to detail. The designs, made from individual body measurements, use luxurious fabrics, sumptuous embellishments and couture techniques.
Instagram – @yemikosibah
4. Bunmi
Bunmi designs reflect exquisite silhouettes and beautiful craftsmanship. Her eclectic colour palette stemming from her African roots and love of art is translated in her brand aesthetic. Her ready to wear designs are known to be fashion-forward; bold with print innovation that is sometimes otherworldly, yet the pairing up of sculptural masculine tailoring with extremely feminine silhouettes to enhance the female form is an identifiable aesthetic. The brand is an extension of Bunmi’s personality, experiences in life and love of luxurious fabrics, with a key focus on evening and bridal wear, and a ready to wear line to follow in the near future.
Instagram – @bunmibridal @bunmiofficial
5. Clarisse Hieraix
Clarisse Hieraix designs and manufactures, under her own brand, couture, cocktail and wedding dresses in her atelier in Paris and sells to private clients and multi-brand stores across the globe. Clarisse Hieraix has established progressively her originality on the Parisian and international couture scene. Her strong identity is reflected in her creations inspired by contrasting, conflicting and mysterious worlds. Conqueror like the Valkyries, the Clarisse Hieraix woman asserts elegant femininity and has the audacity to refuse fashion diktats. Each collection has a unique style. They give a new characteristic to this rebellious woman who metamorphoses to better reinvent herself. After several fashion shows in Paris during the Haute Couture Fashion Week and extensive coverage of her creations in the fashion press (Vogue, L’Officiel, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, CitizenK), and has dressed celebrities such as Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Doutzen Kroes, Georgia May Jagger, Nicky Minaj, and Tara McDonald.
Instagram – @clarissehieraix
Our hand-picked brands will spice up your wardrobe giving it the boost it needs. However, this list is not extensive so do not be limited to just these five. Do some research and choose to shop with brands that need your support rather than choosing the big fast-fashion retailers. The style and creativity of the black community are overflowing and this needs to be celebrated through conscious shoppers i.e. you!
