7 must-see sustainable black designers redefining fashion¶
Tracy Reese launched Hope for Flowers in 2019, aiming to empower women and make a positive social impact. The brand stands on three pillars: Conscious Design, Community Art in Detroit, and Partnerships. Using digital printing with OEKO-TEX-certified inks, Reese ensures that prints for her clothes are free from harmful chemicals. The brand embraces on-demand and small-batch production with organic and eco-friendly materials. The brand also contributes to community education through The Hope for Flowers Art enrichment program and engages in sustainable partnerships with Naturalizer, NEST, and Pottery Barn.
Inspired by indigenous philosophy, sacred texts, and art and rituals, Chelsea Bravo, a healing arts practitioner, seeks to reclaim her ancestry through her brand. Offering menswear, womenswear, and unisex styles, the brand features custom designs made from repurposed and reclaimed clothes and fabric. Incorporating hand painting and hand embroidery, Chelsea Bravo’s designs prioritize sustainability, using materials like hemp, linen, wool, and organic cotton.
Autumn Adeigbo focuses on investing in women, evident in her limited quantity purchases and made-to-order production approach. She contributes to a more sustainable fashion industry by minimizing fabric waste and excessive manufacturing. Adeigbo partners with female-owned production facilities throughout the United States, ensuring fair wages and employment. Her commitment extends globally with the launch of four fair-trade fashion production pilots in Africa.