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Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Featuring lifestyle, fashion and delicious hot sauce brands
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
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Every February since 1995, Canadians across the country have celebrated Black History Month. Since then, we’ve used the month to not only learn more about the historical contributions of Black Canadians but to reflect on the importance of equity and inclusion in our communities today.
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In recent years, we’ve also learned the importance of supporting Black-owned brands on a local and national level. Countless Black-owned businesses, many of which are also Canadian, have found huge new audiences for their products — especially the brands whose products have gone viral online. The best part about learning about these brands is that we don’t have to limit ourselves to only buying their products in February. They’re available in-store (check out Black-Owned TO for a one-stop shop) and online (yes, even on Amazon) throughout every season. Here’s a roundup of some Black-owned brands where you can find your favourite items all year round.
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Why we love it: Though you might already know about the Andrea Iyamah swimsuits that have broken the internet over the last few years (likely due to their bold colours and flattering cuts), you might not know that the designer, Dumebi Andrea Iyamah, is Nigerian-Canadian, and her world-renowned brand operates out of Toronto, Lagos and New York.
Price: $338
Where to buy: Andrea Iyamah
Why we love it: At the risk of sounding dramatic, these candles — this Yolande candle in particular— smell like paradise. Each of these sustainably-made candles is paraben and phthalates-free and is named after women who have inspired Toronto-based founder Sagal Ali throughout her lifetime.
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Price: $30
Where to buy: Brwn Collective
Why we love it: This universally flattering ribbed maxi dress, brought to you by Toronto-based brand Fumi The Label, is a social media influencer favourite for a reason — it hugs every curve in all the right places. It also comes in black for those who love the style but want a more neutral colour.
Price: $350
Where to buy: Fumi The Label
Why we love it: This Clear Fight serum, created by biochemist-turned-skincare entrepreneur Elizabeth Shabi, packs a power punch of salicylic acid, manuka honey and lemongrass oil to boost hydration and combat acne-prone skin.
Price: $78
Where to buy: Serumize
Why we love it: These trousers might just be the only pants you’ll ever need. Designed by brand Reona, which specializes in minimal and functional luxury designs, these suit trousers come in chocolate, macadamia and sand, and can be paired with any of the brand’s tops, t-shirts or bodysuits.
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Price: $26
Where to buy: Reona
Why we love it: Ordering these pearl earrings from Omi Woods is like getting a gift from the designer herself — each item is made-to-order and most items, like these earrings, come in a variety of metals, from sterling silver to 24K gold.
Price: From $243
Where to buy: Omi Woods
So Supple Organics Coco Mint Mask.Why we love it: Who doesn’t love a face mask that smells like your favourite guilty pleasure? This Coco Mint mask from So Supple organics has key ingredients from cocoa powder, bentonite clay and papaya enzymes (among others) to keep your skin smooth, exfoliated and moisturized.
Price: $27
Where to buy: So Supple Organics
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Why we love it: Sean Brown is all about the culture — in 2018, this fashion illustrator turned creative director turned photographer received a Juno nomination for his album artwork on R&B crooner Daniel Caeser’s album ‘Freudian. This chair, from his line of ‘Curves by Sean Brown’ homeware is not only functional but is also reminiscent of the shapes of 90s music culture from where he often draws inspiration.
Price: $332
Where to buy: SSENSE
Why we love it: If you missed the emotional clip of Taltis founder Gilles Tchianga getting his dream offer on Dragon’s Den, I beg you to stop what you’re doing and look up the viral clip immediately. Taltis Foods not only has the sauce for the ever-so-delicious jollof rice in several spice levels, but the brand also carries steak-cute white yam and hibiscus drinks for those looking for a refreshing snack.
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Price: From $4
Where to buy: Taltis Foods
Why we love it: If you like the idea of being a plant mom, but are self-aware enough to know you’re probably not going to keep the plant alive, Coie Boutique offers an array of dried flowers, like this mini palm spear, to bring greenery to your space without the stress of plant upkeep.
Where to buy: Etsy
Why we love it: Whether it’s -22 degrees, a bad hair day or the finishing touch to your daily look, everyone needs a hat. This Harbour beanie from Brimz Official can be worn rolled up or long and has a removable gold pin for added flair.
Price: $40
Where to buy: Brimz Official
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