Everyone has their go-to procrastination tactic—maybe you find yourself refreshing your Instagram feed, whipping up an elaborate meal, or going for a leisurely walk when you're putting off a task. My personal coping mechanism? Making shopping lists. No matter what mood I'm in or why exactly I'm looking to kill time, my first instinct is to draw up a list of things I need—well, more often than not, things I want but don't actually need. Grocery lists, arbitrary to-do lists, and yes, shopping lists.
Being a fashion editor, I keep a running tab of my favorite brands and boutiques that are owned or designed by Black talent. These names are top of mind throughout the year, but given that February is Black History Month, it's the perfect time to highlight all the stunning Black-owned fashion items that are occupying my cart (and my headspace) right now. In the below edit, you'll find a range of items from pretty pearl earrings to reworked knits and brands from smaller indie labels like LaSette and A.au to industry heavyweights such as Telfar and Victor Gelmaud. This one goes out to you, Who What Wear readers, because there's no one who loves a good shopping list more than you do (except for yours truly).
If you haven't heard the name Thebe Magugu yet, well, consider this your official intro. The Johannesburg, South Africa-based label already holds the LVMH prize and is part of Matches Fashion innovator's program, just a few reasons why I'm convinced it's one to know. The stunning designs hit at the heart of what fashion people want to wear now, offering one-of-a-kind twists on staple silhouettes such as shirt dresses or this gorgeous cutout knit top.Creating truly unisex designs that work equally as well for everyone is no easy feat, but Wales Bonner has managed to do just that and imbues each piece with an effortlessly cool feel. These suede sneakers from the designer's Adidas collaboration are an update on the iconic 1972 style.While bright beaded jewelry is trending at the moment, the addition of this sweet pearl pendant ensures this necklace is timeless, too. Oversize button-downs are my favorite way to look polished while feeling relaxed and I've been eyeing this one in the perfect shade of blue from LA-based Local European for way too long. I might just have to finally make it mine.Everything Christopher John Rogers designs just puts a big smile on my face and these lime-hued crystal-embellished pants are exactly why the designer's bright, whimsical, and fun-loving ethos is so special.If you're not shopping Good American's selection of cool basics, what are you even doing? Next time you're perusing Shopbop or Nordstrom, do yourself a favor and add one of their useful staples like this ribbed dress to your cart.After going viral last summer for his petite handbags emblazoned with the phrase "End Systemic Racism", Brandon Blackwood has not only managed to garner attention from the fashion world but he's harnessed the buzz into long-lasting intrigue.When the stylist behind some of the most epic celeb ensembles creates a label of their own, you know it has to be good. Such is the case with Aliette, Jason Rembert's brainchild and the emerging label catering to all our 2021 needs, starting with these chic tangerine sweats.Mules were once a fashion-insider trend, but let's face it, they're a full-blown wardrobe staple at this point and my closet could definitely use a simple '90s version like this woven pair from Brother Vellies.In case you somehow haven't heard, second-skin tops are trending hard right now and my growing collection of the printed mesh tops is proof that it's a style I'm 100% behind.If you're in the market for an investment piece of jewelry, I suggest one of Mateo's stunning pearl pieces like these hoops that are special enough to elevate an outfit but easy enough to wear every day.I've been turning to relaxed suiting trousers instead of jeans lately, and this beige pair hits on all the right elements.Because Telfar can do no wrong.This knitted number is intriguing from every angle.If I didn't know any better, I'd think this chunky chain link bracelet were designer.Tove's ethereal draped dresses and tie-up blouses have earned a special place in the hearts of fashion people (myself very much included).Mark my words: this spring and summer, it's all about strappy sandals and the more complicated the straps, the better.Bring the vacation vibes to you.What did I say about second-skin tops? My obsession runs deep and this swirl print is another favorite.Because snakeskin print can never not look chic.Jotting this down for my summer wardrobe (it's never too early).Dresses with side cutouts are the silhouette every trendsetter is testing out at the moment and I have to say, I'm intrigued.No one loves a chunky lug sole more than I do and I love the idea of styling these with a big blazer and tall socks.From the architectural shape to the '90s style, this is a major yes from me.The back is even more stunning, if you can believe it.Make this brand your go-to for cool, minimal swimwear. Shop the Most Wanted Bikini Bottoms ($90)Even better than a really great tank is a really great bodysuit.Heart eyes.I can't resist a good lace lingerie set.When I tell you I gasped...It's the corset-inspired seaming for me.Herringbone chains have an elevated feel to them no matter how much you actually spend.TBH, I'd wear this as a bodysuit just as much as I'd wear it as a swimsuit.Main character energy.Body-con dresses are coming back, but they're not like you're thinking.So here for these waist straps.The best part about this puffy bucket bag is that you can coordinate your entire outfit to it.A basic that's as '90s as it is now.Investing in quality lingerie has been top of mind lately and this beautiful silk bralette is definitely the ultimate goal.This is giving Amanda Gorman reading her inaugural poem vibes.Ribbed sets are the bread-and-butter of my WFH wardrobe and this three-piece ensemble feels so fresh with its removable shrug and chocolate brown color.Believe me when I say that my bags are already half-packed for when it's safe to travel again and this bright bikini is a key addition.Mask up, but make it couture.Because I could always use another bucket hat.
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