Socially Conscious Brands To Celebrate MLK Day

EDITED BY MELODY BOYKIN

     Everyone knows Martin Luther King Jr. as one of the most influential civil rights pioneers, but did you know he also had style? Dr. King was not just revolutionary for his iconic speeches but also his approach to fashion. So while we celebrate Dr. King’s contribution to rights and freedom, we think it’s only fair we celebrate his akeen image, specifically his contribution to socially conscious fashion that makes a permanent statement about Black legacy and history. This Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, join us in celebrating items from some of our favorite black-owned and socially conscious brands.

STUDIO 189

       Studio 189, co-founded by Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah is an Accra-facilitated brand that works with artisanal communities to create unique one-of-a-kind items. STUDIO 189 specializes in “locally and economically friendly” natural plant-based dye indigo, hand-batik, and kente weaving. A display of community, a prominent theme Dr. King would have endorsed!

Photo courtesy: Via Studio 189
Photo courtesy: Via Studio 189

MELANIN APPAREL

      Melanin Apparel is a Black woman-owned and operated brand that celebrates the unity and strength of Black American livelihood and struggles, by highlighting the insurmountable legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., other civil rights activists, social justice movements, etc. The following slogan tees are an emblem of what Melanin Apparel offers. Not to mention Melanin Apparel is having a massive Martin Luther King Jr. sale up to 50% off! Snatch these items before they’re gone.

Photo Courtesy: Via Melanin Apparel

Melanin Apparel- MLK It Was All A Dream – $28.00–$32.00
https://melaninapparel.com/product/mlk-it-was-all-a-dream/

Photo Courtesy: Via Melanin Apparel

Melanin Apparel – Dream By Any Means Necessary – $28.00–$32.00
https://melaninapparel.com/product/dream-by-any-means-necessary/

PARDON MY FRO

     Pardon My Fro is a Black-owned and woman-operated brand that is the birthchild of Dana Fly. The idea was bred when the creator started her natural hair journey and looked into items that reflected the beauty of her unique progress. A triumphant, love letter to unapologetic Blackness. Pardon My Fro operates to showcase the art of the Black woman’s experience within self-actualization and community. We believe that as a concept of revolutionary self-love and a brand Dr. King would adore “Pardon My Fro”.

Photo Courtesy: Via Pardon My Fro
Photo Courtesy: Via Pardon My Fro

CANDID ART ACCESSORIES

      Candid Art is a special Oakland-based brand that celebrates self-expression and individuality. The brand’s owner, Candace Cox utilizes jewelry and home decor to highlight the resiliency of the African diaspora. The effective prioritization of sustainable and locally sourced material doesn’t just make a statement about Black spirituality but the urgency of taking care of Mother Earth. Since Dr. King lived in devotion to combatting environmental racism and ecology, we think Candid Art would also have his stamp of approval.

Photo Courtesy: Via CanDid Art

Candid Art Accessories- Quilted Cocoon Coat – $405.00
https://www.candidartaccessories.com/store/p619/Tusani_Quilted_Cocoon_Coat.html

Photo Courtesy: Via CanDid Art

Candid Art Accessories- Mother Womb Reversible Quilt – $155.00
https://www.candidartaccessories.com/store/p549/MOTHERS__WOMB_REVERSIBLE_QUILT.html