Black designer bags are a timeless addition to your wardrobe. This style can easily shift from casual to formal with the right accessories.
Brooklyn-based brand Petit Kouraj carries Haitian roots into its bags that are sustainable, featuring made-to-order production and liveable wages for artisans. Their woven design conveys the most elegantly chic vibes.
Yvonne Kone
Yvonne Kone combines minimalist Danish design with a colorful sensibility derived her Ivory Coast heritage to create luxurious Italian leather accessories and goods. Her take-anywhere pieces are distinguished by a minimalist, architectural approach in terms of design, material and texture. They are a celebration of story and heritage, and demonstrate respect for traditional craftsmanship.
The bags made of black leather from the brand are a mix between classic shapes and bold colors, ranging from elegant saddle bags to versatile bucket bags. The brand's name is a favorite among modern women who love timeless fashion.
ASHYA, a New York-based company was awarded a prestigious 2019 CFDA Elaine Gold Launch Pad Fellowship. They make functional bags that are well-crafted and blend luxury and utility. The gender-neutral collection offers innovative designs, such as their Reversible Bolo bag and around-the neck Bolo bag. Each item is made in small batches using custom hardware.
Sarep + Rose
The brand was founded by Robin Sirleaf, the lifestyle brand Sarep + Rose blends style with social responsibility. The founder of the brand travels to Africa in order to source materials, and collaborates with artisans to create a more elevated version of the everyday accessory. Her collection of leather bags as well as footwear and attractive home storage boxes are all made by hand in Africa.
Her collections incorporate Fish Skin leather (a texture made by dried pike fish skin) and Sisal baskets that evoke a sense of the modern African aesthetic. Add a whimsical flower or bow to a top handle shape to change up the look.
Nordstrom's flagship store in New York City will be hosting an in-store market that will feature eight Black-owned businesses from February 14 to March 6. The specially curated market features clothing food and home products from Caribbean lifestyle brand 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
Founded by fashion stylist Nasrin Jean-Baptiste. Petit Kouraj is the Haitian Creole word for "little courage." After years of styling and earning experience as a world-class fashion designer, she recognized her innate calling and created a line of luxury bags that blend knitwear sculpture, fashion, and cultural identity.
Jean-Baptiste worked with a group of women from Haiti to create her crochet bags. She used 100 100% cotton net along with rayon fringe and leather handles. They can spend up to twelve hours working on one bag.
Vavvoune is a Brooklyn-based brand is known for its unique shapes and maximalist color palette. This fringe crossbody is not an exception. Choose the Michelle tote from the brand, which has an abstract pattern that has an edge that is rounded and a pouch to match.
Valerie Blaise
Founded by self taught designer/artisan Valerie Blaise in Brooklyn New York. VAVVOUNE (pronounced vav*une) is a leather accessories brand that is renowned for its use of its cultured design. The mood, the moments of nostalgia and practicality inject inspiration into the creative operation and overall aesthetic of the brand.
It's not a secret that Black designers are reinventing classic shapes into modern must-haves, but Valerie Blaise's namesake line takes it a step further by offering bags that are chic and elegant. With a design that is inspired by architecture her collections are ideal for everything from desk-to-dinner.
You've probably seen Anima Iris bags on the likes of Beyonce, but even if not these bags are worth a look. Each piece is made with the intention to honor and celebrate the tradition of African craftsmanship with everything from woven handles, to hexagonal designs. This is a brand that will always be in fashion.
Jevoni McAllister
The founder Jevoni McAllister launched her sustainable (and budget-friendly) collection after she was bored of scrolling on Instagram to find designer bags on sale. Her vegan leather designs are worn by women from all walks of life. From a black bucket with rose gold details to a rucksack that is hand-painted with initials Her designs are appropriate for everyone.
Homage Year Homage Year, a label that is worth knowing, dedicates every drop to the memory and Black diaspora of designer Antoine Mannings late father. The brand's sought-after silhouettes come in a variety of designs, from top-handles with a structured design to saddle bags, and even a sleek cross-body you can dress up with a bow or a bouquet.
The seven designers of Black-owned bags offer something for anyone, whether you're looking to bring some color to your wardrobe or find a new staple. From sexy clutches for parties to carry-everywhere bags, they're worth adding to your cart today.
Tola Adeagbo
After a successful career in finance, Tola Adeagbo turned to handbag design and founded Florian London. Florian London's AW19 collection is intrepid and refined, while also embracing the elegant librarian aesthetic. The highly sought-after mock bucket bag with crocs from last season has been transformed into a angular shade of Terracotta. Also, look out for structured top-handles as well as saddle bags and top-handles with structured designs to help you get through the week.
Tola was interviewed by BN to discuss the delicate balance between double-down or retreating when confronted with an unexpected setback. She also discussed the importance of passion in Tola's business and what makes her a Florian girl. Check out the full interview below!
Florian
Florian is famous for his hilarious comedy on the TLC show Darcey Stacey. He is also a professional model and makes use of his appearance to earn a living. Recently, he was given a new set of teeth, and viewers are wondering how that might impact his modeling career.
This Black-owned label is a must for fashion-conscious people. Its leather products are responsibly sourced and made to last. The company not only creates fashionable bags, but also gives back to the community. The End Systemic Racism Mini Tote is a perfect example of the company's activism-inspired designs.
Anima Iris is another Black-owned bag brand that's worth a look. The designer's bags are inspired by African culture and have intricate details. They've been spotted on celebrities such as Beyonce and Keke Palmer. The company also helps support artisanal crafts in Africa.
Ree Projects
Amsterdam-based designer Desiree Kleinen worked on her craft at a variety of international fashion houses before launching her own label in 2016. Her minimally constructed bags are stylish and practical with a nod to practical elegance. Styles such as the Julie Mini and Helene Large in black are fashion-forward styles that will never go away.
The bag that will be the most fashionable of the 2020s, Telfar's minimalistic TC-logo decorated leather utility styles are must-haves for any closet. The brand was awarded the CFDA 2019 American Accessory Designer of the award, and is currently available at Bergdorf Goodman and other top retailers, including Moda Operandi and Shopbop.
Petit Kouraj's rayon netting lace fringe is a modern take on cotton netting. Add designer handbags crossbody or a witty bow to elevate the simple design. The bags are handcrafted in Haiti and will keep you looking chic from day to evening.
BruceGlen
Virgil Abloh, Off-White, and many other designer labels have changed our society in the field of black bags. However, there is a new name that has entered the conversation: BruceGlen.
The identical twins who designed the line came up with a line that is well-known in the fashion industry because of its striking colors and attractive hardware. BruceGlen's commitment to sustainability is what makes their products stand out.
The brand just launched their first collection ever on the runway at NYFW which was dedicated to their late mother's legacy. The Fall 2022 collection by the duo included a variety of looks which featured glitter, rainbows and stained glass window designs. The brothers also partnered with Resonance which provides an instrument that lets you see details about carbon emissions as well as the amount of water used by fabrics.
Anima Iris
If you're looking for a sleek, modern bag that speaks to your fashionable soul Look no further than Anima Iris. This brand of luxury purses is helmed by Wilglory Tanjong, an all-time MBA student who launched the company in 2020.
The bags are handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal. Each bag bears the name of an individual from the family or a close friend, such as Anima and Iris--Wilglory's childhood best friends.
While many luxury brands are focused on marketing European heritage, Anima Iris' designs are based on African history and culture. In addition to their fashionable bags, the company also donates a percentage of profits to various charities that help women
