With everything that’s been happening in the last week (and for the last centuries, if we talk about systemic racism), many of us have been wondering how we can help beyond feeling upset. How we can proactively be anti-racist and support the cause. “Once I’ve shared every imaginable #BlackLivesMatter Instagram story, what can I do next?”
First, I suggest you take a look at FASHION, Refinery 29, and The Good Trade (here and here) all of which have published expansive lists of books to read, movies to watch, podcasts to listen, petitions to sign, causes to donate to, and activists to follow.
Once that’s done, I encourage you to go through this directory of 48 Canadian black-owned fashion, beauty, and lifestyle businesses. Because one true and actionable way to support black communities and POC is to invest our money in a diversified economy. Today, tomorrow, and always.
FASHION
Andrea Iyamah | Atelier A.P.L. | Atelier New Regime
Bain | Batik Boutik | Binteji (vintage)
Ma Chérie Bleue Bridal | Bouswari | Cherry Gardens
Dr. Liza | Gazelles | Greta Constantine
Kaela Kay | Lunar Loungewear | L’Uomo Strano
Marc Alexandrin | Mas Montreal | Mike Paul Atelier
Nykwale | Pretty Denim | Samarakk
Scyssor | Selfish Swimwear | Spencer Badu
BEAUTY
Apprenti Ôr’ganik | Atelier Sirah | Ayacona
Beauté Crépue | Bellurelle | Curl Shoppe
Dado | Earth Tones Naturals | Temi
Luxcey | Malachite + Elephant | Nagico Cosmetics
Okoko Cosmétiques | Serumize | Simkha
Skin Drama | Up North Naturals | V Kosmetik
LIFESTYLE
Époque (vintage) | Maison Petite & Bold| Nitimueth
Joëlle Paquette is a sutainable fashion and clean beauty blogger and copywriter based in Montreal, Canada. After 10 years of working as a journalist for different magazines, she now specializes in writing conscious content for brands built on strong environmentally and socially responsible values. She also pet a corgi once—a very special day she will never forget.
Follow her on Instagram to make sure you don’t miss out on anything @veryjoelle 🌼
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