Black Designer Handbags Are a Timeless Addition to Any Wardrobe
Black designer bags are timeless additions to any wardrobe. The style can easily change from formal to casual with the right add-ons.
Brooklyn-based brand Petit Kouraj carries Haitian roots into its bags that are sustainable, featuring custom-made designs and living wages for artisans. Their woven style conveys the most elegantly chic vibes.
Yvonne Kone
Yvonne Kone combines the minimalism of Danish design with a vibrant style which is derived from her Ivory Coast lineage to create luxury Italian-made leather goods and cashmere accessories. Her take-anywhere pieces are distinguished by an architectural, minimalist approach in terms of shape, material and texture. They focus on the importance of story and heritage, and are a tribute to traditional craftsmanship.
The bags made of black leather by the brand are a blend of classic shapes and bold colors, from elegant saddle bags to versatile bucket bags. The eponymous label is a go-to for fuss-free modern women with a flair for timeless fashion.
ASHYA, a New York-based company, was awarded a 2019 CFDA Elaine Gold Launch Pad Fellowship. They make functional bags that are well-constructed and combine luxury and utility. The collection is gender-neutral and includes unique styles like their reversible crossbody and around-the-neck Bolo bag, all of which are made in small batches using custom hardware.
Sarep + Rose
Sarep + Rose, a lifestyle brand created by Robin Sirleaf combines style with social impact. The founder travels across Africa to source materials and collaborate with designers to create a modern approach to the everyday accessory. Her extensive line of artisan-made leather bags, footwear and decorative home storage baskets change outdated perceptions of Africa.
Her collections include Sisal baskets and Fish Skin Leather (a texture made from dried pikefish skin). They have an African aesthetic. Add a fun bow or flower to a handle with a top shape to alter the look.
Nordstrom's NYC flagship store will feature eight Black-owned businesses in an in-store market this February 14, through March 6. The market will feature clothing as well as home and kitchen items from Caribbean lifestyle-inspired Chen Burkett New York; soulful clothing brand Savant Studios; heavy metal jewelry brand Heavy Metals NYC; Modish Decor Pillows, and Brooklyn Brewed Sorrel.
Petit Kouraj
Nasrin Jean Baptiste, a fashion stylist was the founder of Petit Kouraj, which is the Haitian Creole term for "little courage". After many years of styling, she listened her instincts and came up with a luxury bag line that fuses knitwear, sculpture and a sense of identity.
Jean-Baptiste collaborated with a women-only group in Haiti to create her crochet bags using 100% cotton net, rayon fringe, and leather handles. They can spend up twelve hours on one bag.
Vavvoune, a Brooklyn-based brand, is known for its distinctive shapes and vibrant color palette. This fringe crossbody is not an exception. Pick the Michelle tote from the brand that features geometric patterns with an edge that is rounded and a pouch to match.
Valerie Blaise
Created by self-taught designer/artisan Valerie Blaise in Brooklyn New York. VAVVOUNE (pronounced vav*une) is a leather accessories brand that is recognized as a result of cultured design. Moods, moments of nostalgia and functionality bring inspiration into the creative operation and overall aesthetic of the brand.
Valerie Blaise, a designer of her own line, takes this trend to the next level by creating bags that are stylish and sophisticated. With a design that is inspired by architecture, her collections are perfect for all occasions from office to dinner.
You've probably seen Anima Iris bags on the likes of Beyonce or even the Kardashians, but even if not they are definitely worth checking out. Each bag is created with a conscious effort to celebrate and honor the traditional African craftsmanship, from woven handles to hexagonal designs. This is a brand that will never go out of fashion.
Jevoni McAllister
Jevoni McAllister, the creator of the collection, started it after she got tired of scrolling Instagram and finding only designer bags for sale. Her vegan leather designs are intended to be worn by women of all walks of life--from the black bucket bag with rose gold detailing to a sleek rucksack that has hand-painted initials.
Homage Year, a line that is worth knowing, dedicates each drop to the memory and Black diaspora of designer Antoine Manning's late father. The brand's most sought-after silhouettes are available in a variety of shapes. From top-handles with a structured design, to saddle bags, or even a sleek, cross-body purse that can be dressed with a flower or bow.
These seven Black-owned bag designers offer something for everyone If you're looking for a way to add some color to your wardrobe or find a new essential. From party-perfect clutches to carry-everywhere satchels are worth adding to your shopping cart now.
Tola Adeagbo
Tola Adeagbo was a former finance professional, turned to handbags and founded Florian London. This AW19, the label celebrates the elegant librarian aesthetic, with a collection bold yet refined. Look out for the coveted mock-croc bucket bag that has been reworked into an aggressive shade of terracotta and also top-handles that are structured and saddle bags that will see you through the week.
BN interviewed Tola to discuss the delicate line between the two extremes of doubling down and retreating in the face of a setback, the importance of passion in her work and what she thinks makes the Florian girl. Check out the full interview below.
Florian
Florian is well-known for his hilarious antics on the TLC series Darcey & Stacey. He is also a professional model who uses his looks to make a living. Recent dental work has left many wondering what effect it could affect his modeling career.
This label owned by Black is a must-have for those who love fashion. The leather items are ethically sourced and made to last. The company doesn't just make fashionable bags but also contributes to the community. The End Systemic Racism Mini Tote is a perfect example of the company's activist-inspired designs.
Anima Iris is another Black-owned bag brand worth checking out. The designer's bags are inspired by African culture and are adorned with intricate details. They've been seen on celebrities such as Beyonce and Keke Palmer. The company also helps support artisanal crafts in Africa.
Ree Projects
Desiree Kleinen, a designer who is based in Amsterdam, developed and refined her skills at international fashion houses before launching her own label in 2016. Her minimalist bags are utilitarian and sleek, with a touch of a functional smoot. Styles such as the Julie Mini and Helene Large in black are fashion-forward styles that will never go away.
The IT bag of the 2020s, Telfar's minimalist TC-logo embellished leather utility bags are must-haves for any closet. The brand received CFDA's 2019 American Accessory Designer of the Year award and has made its way into Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, Moda Operandi, Nordstrom and Shopbop.
Created to extend the style mileage of your everyday bag Petit Kouraj's rayon fringe reinterprets cotton netting, but with a modern twist. Add a pearl brooch or whimsical bow to enhance the basic design. Made by hand in Haiti, these bags will keep your style modern from day to night.
BruceGlen
When it comes to black bags, the fashion world has been blessed by Virgil Abloh's Off-White and a host of other designer labels that have influenced our society. BruceGlen is a new brand that has entered the scene.
The identical twin designers came up with a line that is loved by the fashion world for its use of eye catching color and hardware. What makes BruceGlen really stand out is their commitment to sustainability.
In fact, the brand has just launched its first runway collection at NYFW dedicated to their late mother and her legacy. The Fall 2022 collection featured various looks that featured glitter, rainbows and glass window designs. The brothers also collaborated with Resonance which provides an instrument that lets you see information like carbon emissions and the amount of water used by fabrics.
Anima Iris
If you're seeking a sleek, modern bag that speaks to your fashionable soul Look at Anima Iris. This brand of luxury purses is run by Wilglory Tanjong who is an all-time MBA student who founded the company in the year 2020.
The bags are made in Dakar, Senegal. Each bag bears the name of a family member or close friend, like Anima and Iris--Wilglory's childhood best buddies.
While a lot of luxury brands are focused on advertising European heritage, Anima Iris' designs center around African history and culture. The company donates a portion of its profits to help women of color, in addition to selling trendy bags.