Share This Article
| All products featured on The Wellness Feed are independently selected by our editors for their environmental and ethical impact. However, we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy something through our retail links. |
I vividly remember the moment I heard Juneteenth had become a federal holiday. Or, rather, I should say, I remember how I felt – joyful, relieved, and most importantly, seen. Even while celebrating July 4th or Suffrage Day, as an African American woman, there’s an undeniable pang knowing that both holidays do not commemorate my freedoms. I’ve often felt disheartened at how parts of my history felt sidelined rather than celebrated as joyful moments in American history. So, in 2021, when Juneteenth became a federal holiday, I was overcome with joy by the progress my country was making to celebrate a day of freedom that had long been sidelined and forgotten.
Juneteenth marks an important chapter in American history. This holiday commemorates the end of slavery in 1865 in the United States and celebrates freedoms 48 million Americans enjoy today of. As a new holiday, the rollout of celebratory festivals, concerts, and barbecues has been… slow. Despite being mandated as a day that most businesses are closed and some cities hold parades, it’s still a new holiday many are confused about how to celebrate. So, as a business owner myself, I’ve sought to celebrate and support other African Americans who have overcome systemic racism, bias, and discrimination to chase their dreams to start, grow, and sustain their business.
As our nation progresses towards celebrating the freedoms of all people, celebrating and supporting Black-owned sustainable brands is an important step towards ensuring that, like other parts of our history, they too are celebrated, not sidelined or forgotten.
The Importance of Supporting Black-Owned Sustainable Brands
As consumers, we have the power to help support and sustain brands. When we use our dollars to buy from Black-owned businesses, we’re supporting communities that have for decades had to withstand overt and subtle forms of bias when it comes to funding, contracting, and scaling our businesses. So, until parades and festivities on June 19th become as ingrained in our culture as other freedom-celebrating holidays, I will make it a day to support Black-owned brands that have a strong emphasis on sustainability and social justice.
Jade Swim is part of 1% for the Planet and uses Oeko-Tex certified fabrics.
Supporting Black-owned brands isn’t just about fashion. It’s about ending inequalities and promoting fairness in the business world. When these brands focus on sustainability, they add another layer of positive change. The number of Black entrepreneurs in eco-fashion is growing. But systemic barriers make it harder for Black entrepreneurs to succeed. Discrimination, lack of funding, and limited access to resources put them at a disadvantage. Supporting these brands helps break down those walls, promoting fairness and equity. Backing these brands helps create more diversity in sustainable fashion and sends a message that everyone deserves a seat at the table.
Studies show that Black-owned small businesses generate billions in revenue, yet they remain underfunded and overlooked. When consumers choose to support these brands, they help grow the economy and create more jobs. Every purchase becomes a statement — encouraging more inclusiveness, diversity, and representation in the fashion world. It’s more than shopping; it’s about building a future where Black entrepreneurs thrive.
Black-Owned Sustainable Clothing Brands
Now, for the fun part. Let’s talk about Black-owned clothing brands.
Brands with official sustainability certifications are leading the way. They pack transparency into every step— from sourcing to production. Gracemade’s selection of Parisian-chic essentials are made from natural materials and ethically made in Los Angeles. Jade Swim is a part of 1% for the Planet and ensures that all items are made in Los Angeles and shipped in 100% recycled or biodegradable packaging. LemLem is sustainably made in Africa and has seen its designs amplified through collaborations with larger brands like Puma.
Tips to Shop Fashionably & Sustainably
- Check for eco-certifications like GOTS or Fair Trade
- Read about the brand’s sourcing and manufacturing practices
- Look for transparent companies that share their supply chain details
- Support brands that give back to local communities
Eco-Friendly Shoe & Accessory Brands Making Waves
Sustainable footwear often uses recycled rubber, plant-based leathers, or natural textiles. Ahimsa Studios is one of these brands, using zero-waste production methods to reduce waste and pollution. Brother Vellies makes shoes that blend traditional craftsmanship with eco-friendly practices. Sarep + Rose prioritize sustainable materials and fair wages, making style and ethics go hand in hand.
Other emerging brands use recycled fabrics, biodegradable textiles, and ethical supply chains. Mifland Leather Goods, for instance, uses recycled and ethically sourced leather to create timeless pieces. Goodee is a marketplace for ethical and sustainable goods for your home. These brands are gaining recognition for their eco-conscious approach and innovative designs.
How to Choose Sustainable Leather Goods
- Look for shoes made from recycled or natural materials
- Pick brands committed to eco-friendly practices
- Support Black entrepreneurs dedicated to innovation
- Be mindful of durability; invest in quality pieces that last
Ethical Jewelry To Love Now & Forever
Yam is a NYC-based jewelry brand that offers made-to-order jewelry with fair trade metals and eco-friendly packaging. They create accessories that last beyond trends and respect workers’ rights. Valerie Madison is Seattle-based brand offering heirloom pieces sourced from recycled gold and ethically-sourced gemstones.
Investing in quality, timeless pieces means fewer items end up in landfills. Black-owned brands are making jewelry and accessories that are built to last. These pieces give style and substance, not just fleeting trends.
Tips to Buy Eco-Conscious Jewelry
- Check if metals are recycled or ethically sourced
- Avoid brands that don’t share their sourcing details
- Choose minimalist designs that can be worn for years
- Support brands that give back to communities
Eco-Conscious Beauty & Personal Care Brands Owned by Black Entrepreneurs
The legendary British makeup artist launched her eponymous brand, Pat McGrath Labs, and is stepping into sustainability with eco-friendly packaging and cruelty-free ingredients. The brand focuses on products that make you look as amazing as the models she preps for runway shows and protects nature.
Innovative packaging reduces waste and uses less plastic. Brands that evolve their packaging stand stronger in the eco-beauty movement, making sure beauty is safe for everyone and the environment.
Tips to Find Eco-Friendly Beauty Products
- Look for organic, cruelty-free labels
- Choose brands with recyclable or biodegradable packaging
- Support those committed to social and environmental impact
- Read ingredient lists for natural, non-toxic options
Shopping Resources
if you want to find out about Black owned clothing brands and more to love, use directories like Official Black Wall Street or The Folklore. Look for certification platforms like Good On You that verify eco-claims. Being informed makes your choices more powerful. Many brands partner with local organizations or run community programs. These collaborations amplify impact and help build more equity in fashion.
Supporting Black-owned, sustainable brands in 2025 is one way to celebrate the freedoms of Americans and create a more equitable and eco-friendly world. Our choices as consumers can spark real change. By shopping consciously, we shape the future of ethical fashion—one stylish, sustainable piece at a time. My intentional this Juneteenth and every other is to continue this mission and watch how our impact grows.
