Shopping a favorite Black-owned business is one of the many ways you can show your support during the holidays and beyond, whether you’re looking to gift a stunning piece of jewelry or a sweet treat. On average, business owners of color were hit harder during the pandemic, with many industries still working to get back to pre-2020 levels of operation. Despite these statistics, so many creative Black-owned businesses have thrived, thanks to their exceptional products and, in many cases, community-driven missions. The Forbes Vetted editors are spotlighting go-to picks from just a few of our favorite Black-owned brands below.
From Homebody’s soothing bath soak to beautiful handblown stemware from Estelle Colored Glass, we … [+] rounded up our editors’ favorite products from Black-owned businesses to help you cross everyone off your holiday list.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
Buying Black in your local community is a stellar place to start, but if you’re looking to broaden your horizons and discover what’s beyond, read on. We’ve put together a list of our editors’ most beloved products from Black-owned businesses across all categories including fashion, beauty, food, wellness, toys and more. From a bath soak that will help you relax after a full day of Zoom meetings to a Calabrian olive oil set that arrives ready to gift, we hope you’ll find the perfect present for everyone on your holiday list (and maybe a little something for yourself, too).
Best Products From Black-Owned Businesses, At A Glance
EXAU Olive Oil Gift Set
Oma The Label The Zoë Earrings
Homebody Full Spectrum Of Possibilities Pearlescent CBD Bath Soak
Black Is a Rainbow Color Book
Estelle Colored Glass Champagne Flutes
Portrait Coffee Founders Blend
LØCI Origin Sneaker
Ashya Slingback Mini Bag
Best Products From Black-Owned Businesses Overall
EXAU Olive Oil
EXAU Olive Oil Gift Set
“Husband-and-wife duo Giuseppe Morisani and Skyler Mapes decided in 2016 to combine a great love for the fertile lands of Calabria and an even greater obsession with time-honored tradition and craftsmanship. EXAU was born from a desire to create fully transparent, premium-quality extra-virgin olive oil in the rich landscape of Southern Italy and bring it abroad for all to enjoy. With two distinct varietals (grassy Turi and bitter-bold Lina) suitable for both cooking and finishing, there’s something for everyone here; each of them is complex enough to stand out on its own but doesn’t overpower the dish it’s featured in.” —Brinda Ayer, editorial director
Telfar
Telfar x Eastpak Large Shopper
“Telfar, well known for its cool bags, collaborated with Eastpak to create this large shopper, which I absolutely had to buy in khaki. It’s perfect for anyone starting or going back to school. The exterior is durable and can withstand any weather, and I especially love the double straps, so you can use it as a backpack rather than a typical shoulder bag. The inside is extremely spacious with a zip pocket, netting pockets and, of course, a laptop slip to keep things organized. I highly recommend this bag, and I even ended up buying two more for friends in school. It’s too perfect not to.” —Dawlat Chebly, SEO content strategist
PetPlate
PetPlate Personalized Meal Plans
“One of Forbes Vetted’s picks for the best dog food delivery services, PetPlate ships fresh, human-grade food for your pup to your doorstep. You can choose from a variety of flavors and plans, and I appreciate how easy it is to store and seal the lidded containers if I don’t use everything in them at once. It’s also simple to swap in a new recipe and add treats or supplements with each order if you’d like to try something different.” —Emmy Favilla, managing editor
Oma The Label
Oma The Label The Zoë Earrings
“Oma The Label features 18k gold-plated baubles that make a statement and look high-end, but at a value price. After receiving two of the brand’s bracelets, I’d check out Oma’s offerings for trying trendier styles or gift-giving; you can’t go wrong with its chunky gold chains or outfit-elevating earrings.” —Karen Tietjen, senior updates editor
Ulta
Homebody Full Spectrum Of Possibilities Pearlescent CBD Bath Soak
“Sprinkling one of Homebody’s CBD-infused bath soaks into the tub is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day. In addition to CBD, the brand’s formulas also include soothing ingredients like magnesium and chamomile for an extra-relaxing effect. My favorite pick—the Full Spectrum of Possibilities soak—turns your bathwater into a pretty kaleidoscope of colors.” —Kara Cuzzone, senior deals editor
MOST POPULAR
Amazon
Black Is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy
“Written by Black author and mother Angela Joy and illustrated by award-winning Black artist Ekua Holmes, Black Is a Rainbow Color is a beautiful children’s book that follows a young girl as she describes what the word ‘Black’ means to her. It’s a powerful and colorful celebration of Black culture and history.” —Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor
West Elm
Estelle Colored Glass Champagne Flutes
“Whenever there’s something special to celebrate, I bring out my favorite Estelle Colored Glass Champagne Flutes and pop open a bottle of bubbly. The beloved brand, created by Stephanie Summerson Hall, is known for crafting stunning handblown glass cake stands and stemware in sweet pastels and rich gemstone hues. Pick up this multicolored set of six champagne glasses for a housewarming gift or as a festive way to upgrade your New Year’s Eve celebration.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor
Portrait Coffee
Portrait Coffee Founders Blend
“Portrait Coffee is based in Atlanta, where I live, and it’s one of my favorite roasters in town. I love sipping its roasts at a local coffee shop, like Finca to Filter, or picking up a bag of beans at my corner grocery so I know I’ll have great coffee all week long. I’m partial to the Founders blend. Portrait Coffee also has a mission to boost Black and Brown representation and entrepreneurship in specialty coffee, and in Atlanta’s historic West End neighborhood as the area becomes revitalized.” —Anna Perling, senior reviews editor
Saks Fifth Avenue
Ashya Slingback Mini Bag
“Brooklyn-based leather goods company Ashya is run by two extremely chic women, Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece, who have their fingers on the pulse of what’s next. Founded in 2017, Ashya basically reinvented the luxury belt bag, creating interesting, unisex, travel-friendly shapes in gorgeous colors and textures that can be worn multiple ways (and look absolutely nothing like a fanny pack). The brand’s signature Bolo bags, which include card slots and hidden zippers and can fit your passport, are at one of the most accessible price points for owning an Ashya piece. But my favorite style is the structured Slingback Mini, which can be worn as a cross-body or detached from the included belt and carried by the O-ring top handle.” —Cory Baldwin, executive director of content and strategy
Taharka Brothers
Taharka Brothers Keep Ya Head Up Ice Cream
“Made in small batches in the heart of Baltimore, the ice cream from Taharka Brothers is a cult favorite around the city for good reason: The brand’s bold, inventive, totally delicious flavors—like Matcha Mochi, Key Lime Pie, Power Of The People (coffee ice cream with a doughnut-glaze swirl) and Keep Ya Head Up (blackberry crumble with oat streusel)—are just part of the story. The organization’s majority-Black, worker-owned business model and its social impact–focused mission are the other huge selling points. Who can say no to a truly great product with a truly great connection to community? Now, thanks to nationwide shipping, folks outside of Baltimore can partake in the good stuff too.” —Brinda Ayer, editorial director
Healthy Roots Dolls
Healthy Roots Zoe Doll
“Yelitsa Jean-Charles’ Healthy Roots Dolls come in a range of diverse skin tones and hair textures that let kids actually wash and style the dolls’ hair. The dolls represent a celebration of Black hair with the aim of empowering young girls of color. The company also sells companion haircare books. Jean-Charles founded her toy company while still a college student, and now you can find her dolls at Target and Macy’s.” —Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor
Brother Vellies
Brother Vellies Cloud Sock Bundle
“Founded by Aurora James in 2013, luxury accessories brand Brother Vellies is known for pairing traditional African design practices with modern, of-the-moment styling. It has cool-girl flats, western-inspired boots and feather-adorned handbags, but perhaps my favorite thing that it makes are these cotton Cloud Socks. Launched in April 2020 at the start of the pandemic, the cozy, slightly slouchy style made them the perfect stay-at-home socks, but they also look great with sneakers and loafers. Pick up a single pair in a loved one’s favorite color for the perfect stocking stuffer, or grab this bundle of three neutrals for a thoughtful yet practical gift that will get a ton of use.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor
Gives Back
Allmansright
Allmansright Eco X Kross Cross-Body Bag
“Inspired by the Swedish tradition of allemansrätt—the public’s right to explore and enjoy the outdoors—Bronx-based Allmansright designs ultralight outdoor gear for all. From trail-ready staples like backpacks and stuff sacks to gorpcore goods that transition seamlessly from the streets to the summits, this tiny label is doing big things. What’s more, 2% of the brand’s profits go to organizations that protect the environment and diversify the outdoors, so every purchase makes an impact.” —Cam Vigliotta, gear editor
Ulta
Pat McGrath Labs SatinAllure Lipstick
“Founded by legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath, Pat McGrath Labs is my go-to brand for glam makeup must-haves that are long-lasting and beautifully packaged. I regularly use its pretty eye shadow palettes for evening looks, but I especially love the brand’s wide range of lip products. The SatinAllure lipstick comes in 18 moisturizing shades and is the perfect gift under $30 for your mom, sister or beauty-loving friend.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor
54kibo
54kibo Liz Large Foyer Chandelier
“Ghanaian-born Nana Quagraine founded this online home decor retailer in 2018 to bring African design traditions to the global market. It now stocks a range of handmade home goods from more than 50 different designers representing every corner of the continent. What I find fascinating about the website is that you can shop not only by category (pillows, furniture, rugs, etc.), but also by region. The cross-category offerings showcase an array of styles, from playful to chic to avant-garde to boho, so whatever your aesthetic, there’s likely something for you. I’m personally waiting for a high-ceilinged apartment to splurge on one of the magnificent chandeliers.” —Luke Fater, associate branded content editor
Net-A-Porter
Mateo New York Initial 14k Gold Diamond Necklace
“Originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, the New York City–based designer Matthew Harris created fine jewelry brand Mateo New York in 2009. Drawing inspiration from modern art, Harris marries simplicity and minimalism in every single piece, offering sleek, high-end designs with precious metals, diamonds and gemstones at an approachable price point for fine jewelry. I love Mateo’s delicate 14k gold and diamond initial necklaces for everyday wear and its stunning selection of pearl earrings for special occasions.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor
Silver & Riley
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag
“Silver & Riley was founded by Lola Banjo, a world traveler who wanted to create travel staples that are equally beautiful and functional. The brand has a line of designer-worthy handbags, as well as duffels, carry-ons and belt bags, all made in Italy from premium full-grain leather. I was fortunate to get my hands on the Convertible Executive Leather Bag, which is roomy enough to stash air travel essentials but portable enough to use as a work or everyday tote. The bag also comes with a long strap that can be detached or reattached, transforming it from a doctor’s bag to a cross-body to a backpack. While the bag is an investment, its versatility gives you plenty for the price.” —Karen Tietjen, senior updates editor
Amazon
Upbounders by Little Likes Kids Splash Park Jumbo Puzzle
“Founded by a Black mom, Kemi Tignor, in Washington, D.C., this toy company makes really smart puzzles, flash cards and games aimed at children 6 and under. All of its items, including this Splash Park puzzle, feature Black families and multicultural scenes with the aim of fostering a sense of belonging and representation for young kids. The company celebrates cultural and ethnic differences with the families and lively activities depicted on the toys. We have the puzzle at home, and my daughter absolutely loves it.” —Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor
Gives Back
“Since 2021, cool vegan sneaker brand LØCI has become a fast favorite of celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck—and it’s easy to see why. Not only does the retailer use recycled plastic bottles to hand-make its canvas shoes, but it donates 10% of all online profits to protect wildlife and support biodiversity efforts. If you’re on the hunt for a pair of new white sneakers, look no further than the LØCI Origin, a classic and comfy vegan leather tennis shoe that comes in more than 15 colors.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor
Golde
Golde Superwhisk and Matcha Kit
“Founded by Trinity Mouzon Wofford, superfoods brand Golde helps brighten your day (and your skin!) with its food-based skincare products and tasty turmeric and matcha latte blends. For anyone new to making matcha or turmeric lattes at home, I recommend picking up one of the brand’s delightfully packaged kits, which come with all the necessary accessories, from matcha whisks to rechargeable frothers, depending on the option you choose.” —Cory Baldwin, executive director of content and strategy
Mason Dixie
Mason Dixie Maple Liège Waffles
“My husband loves these Mason Dixie waffles, which are delicious and super easy to prepare. We also appreciate that the ingredients are relatively simple, which is a huge consideration in our household. Plus, the waffles are so tasty you don’t even need syrup on them.” —Karen Tietjen, senior updates editor
Gives Back
“Lemlem’s easy, breezy dresses are the one constant in my vacation wardrobe. Supermodel Liya Kebede started the resort brand in 2007 after noticing that many of the traditional weavers in her native country of Ethiopia were losing their livelihoods due to a lack of local demand. Since then, Lemlem has partnered with artisans across Africa to preserve the local art of weaving, inspire economic growth and produce beautiful, eco-friendly clothing and accessories that spans swimwear, loungewear and home decor. Even better? Five percent of all sales go toward the Lemlem Foundation, which provides access to healthcare and job opportunities for women artisans in Africa.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor
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Source : Forbes