Eye-Catching Black-Owned Handbag Brands
Black-owned handbag brands | Supporting and shining a spotlight on Black-owned businesses should be a priority all year long, not just during Black History Month. As consumers and content creators, we have the power to create positive change by intentionally choosing to shop from and promote Black designers, artists, writers, and entrepreneurs.
There are so many incredibly talented Black designers out there—some you may already know and love, and many more that you should get to know. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite Black-owned handbag brands that I think are worth checking out and supporting right now:
ASHYA
This emerging Black-owned handbag brand was founded by designers Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece who met while working at Tory Burch. Their designs focus on sleek, modern, and functional bags like the Leather Bolo Bag. The buttery soft leather and versatile styling make their bags a wardrobe staple. ASHYA also has an exclusive capsule collection collaboration with Michael Kors that infuses the classic Michael Kors aesthetic with ASHYA’s fresh take.
CISE
CISE was founded by Eunice Lee and is known for its bold statement handbags featuring messages like “Protect Black People” and “Protect Black Women” that spark conversation. This Black-owned handbag brand also has more understated collections in luxurious leather with minimalist gold logo detailing.
BruceGlen
BruceGlen was created by twin brothers and designers Terrence and Theodore Foster. Their bags feature vibrant, joyful colors and prints that are perfect for parties and making a fashion statement. I love the Fuschia Sparkle Can Crossbody Bag and the Micro Leather Grenade Bag for adding a dose of fun to any outfit.
Sarep + Rose
Sarep + Rose was founded by Liberian-American Robin Sirleaf with the mission of creating employment opportunities for artisans in Liberia and Kenya. The bags blend minimalist design with traditional African techniques. Each one is handcrafted using genuine leather and textiles and completely unique. The brand empowers communities and tells a story with every purchase.
AAKS
AAKS bags are hand-woven in Ghana by skilled local artisans who are provided fair living wages. The founder, Akosua Afriyie-Kumi, sources the velvety raffia and handmade textiles sustainably from the region. The result is beautiful, vividly patterned bags that make a statement. Carrying one feels like taking a bit of a vacation!
Telfar
Telfar Global needs no introduction in the fashion world. But if you haven’t heard, their logo embossed faux leather bags dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin” are truly iconic. Seen on the arms of celebs like Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion, the bags fly off the shelves in minutes every time there’s a product drop. If you can get your hands on one, it’s the ultimate flex. Beyond bags, be sure to check out Telfar’s ready-to-wear collection.
Joanna Vanderpuije
London-based designer Joanna Vanderpuije honed her skills at heritage houses like Alexander McQueen before launching her own eponymous label in 2017. She focuses on playful, vibrant bags and accessories that are hand-printed or painted. Joanna’s slow fashion approach means each item is truly one-of-a-kind.
VAVVOUNE
This brand based out of Brooklyn, NYC combines sleek, modern luxury with local production. Their leather bags are designed in Brooklyn and hand-constructed in Manhattan’s Garment District. VAVVOUNE gives back by donating leather scraps to community art programs.
Petit Kouraj
Petit Kouraj was founded by Haitian designer Jean-Baptiste with the vision of empowering artisans in Haiti. The brand is known for its beautiful and unique fringed handbags made from organic cotton with leather handles. They work closely with local makers to provide fair wages and build skills.
Peju Obasa
Peju Obasa is a UK knitwear designer who creates joyful, colorful crochet bags inspired by her Nigerian heritage. She uses 100% recycled jersey yarns to hand-make each bag sustainably in her studio. With bold hues and playful shapes, Peju’s bags add a fun statement.
Kintu New York
Kintu offers luxury handbags without using any animal materials. Their bags are made in Italy using innovative 100% vegan-tanned leathers for a sensual, polished look. The structured shapes and neutral color palettes give each bag sophisticated versatility.
Helejané
Nigerian-born designer Dolapo Deji-Torey launched Helejané in 2018. Their collections are thoughtfully categorized by vibe like “work,” “glam,” “casual,” and more so you can shop perfectly suited options for any occasion. The designs balance fashion-forward details with timeless silhouettes.
Love, Cortnie Handbags
Cortnie Elizabeth of Love Cortnie taught herself to sew after learning from her grandmother. She creates unique statement clutches with 3D florals, vibrant colors, and playful shapes. With over 200 handbag designs made so far, Cortnie offers countless ways to express your personal style.
Yvonne Koné
Designer Yvonne Koné draws inspiration from both her Danish upbringing and West African roots. Her eponymous handbag line blends clean, Scandinavian simplicity with vibrant prints and textures. In addition to bags, Yvonne Koné creates coordinated small leather goods and accessories.
Brandon Blackwood
Jamaican-Chinese designer Brandon Blackwood made his fashion week debut in 2015 with a line of minimalist leather bags. His designs redefine luxury handbags with a refined, contemporary vision that feels fresh yet timeless. Brandon Blackwood bags have gained a cult following for their quality and restrained elegance.
Silver and Riley
Created by Lola Banjo, Silver and Riley began with the goal of designing the perfect functional day bag. The result is a collection of impeccably crafted leather bags with versatile styling to go from work days to weekends. Unisex silhouettes make these hard-working bags truly for everyone.
AmanyZ
Inspired by her grandfather’s woodworking, designer Amany Zama crafts sculptural bag shapes from hand-carved wooden pieces. Inlaid acrylic adds modern accents. Each bag is a wearable work of art that celebrates African tradition through contemporary design.
Anima Iris
Anima Iris is the brainchild of Cameroonian-American Wilglory Tanjong who draws inspiration from the countries she’s visited across Africa. The handbags showcase a creative mix of color, texture, and shapes that bring bold African style into every look. Produced in small batches in Senegal, each design supports artisans.
Voni
Voni, conceived by L.A. nurse Jevoni McAllister, aims to make luxury designer bags more size and price-inclusive. Their bags come in a wide range of neutral and punchy colors, rendered in supple leather at prices starting under $150. Effortless shoulder bags and crossbodies perfect for everyday
