The importance of supporting Black-owned businesses (opens in new tab) does not stop with Black History Month. It is important that we continue to support black designers, artists, writers, and entrepreneurs for years to come. Each of us can make a positive difference in this area by adding Black-owned businesses to our list of go-to retailers. We, as fashion editors, can strengthen black-owned brands by adding them to the pieces we publish.

There are many talented and amazing designers out there, some we have heard of and some we should be paying attention to. I hope you will bookmark this page and use it as a reference, whether you are buying a gift or looking for a treat for yourself.

If you are interested in this issue, I encourage you to look up Aurora James, the creator of the "15% Pledge". The idea behind the pledge is that since blacks make up about 15 percent of the U.S. population, retailers like Sephora and Macy's and other major corporations should devote at least 15 percent of their shelf space to black-owned brands. Makes sense, right?

We love this up-and-coming brand owned by Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece. They promise to offer well-made, practical items like the sleek Leather Bolo Bag (opens in new tab) and the Cedar Valley Multi Belt Bag (opens in new tab), an innovative take on the fanny pack. [If you like Michael Kors' classic style and want to support a black-owned business, this is a great opportunity. [CISE's "Protect Black People" and "Protect Black Women" collections make the best statements; other CISE collections incorporate swirls, creative strap placement, and minimalist gold logos.

BruceGlen, founded by twin brothers, designs some of the most vibrant, party-ready bags we've seen in a while. Our favorites include the Hoosier Sparkle Can Crossbody Bag (opens in new tab) and the Micro Leather Grenade Bag (opens in new tab).

Robin Sirleaf founded Salep + Rose in honor of her Liberian roots. Everything in the line, from crossbody bags and fanny packs to footwear, is handmade in Liberia or Kenya. The artisans at Salep + Rose combine traditional weaving and leather working techniques with contemporary minimalist design to make each bag a completely original work of art.

The vibrant colors and painstakingly woven designs of these bags are perfect for a vacation outing or simply a hassle-free trip to the market (think of Jane Birkin's signature basket purse, but far more fun and inventive).

Ghana.

Founded in 2014 by Ghanaian-born Akosua Afriyie-Kumi, what is special about AAKS is that all pieces are handwoven by Ghanaian women (who, incidentally, are paid a fair wage) using local, sustainably harvested materials. It takes about a week to make one bag, so you know you're buying a high quality item that will last a long time.

We are eager shoppers too. The great news is that in addition to buying directly from the AAKS site, you can also check out these accessories at Anthropologie (opens in new tab) and Bloomingdales (opens in new tab).

Say "Bushwick Birkin (opens in new tab)" to a group of fashion lovers and they will immediately recognize the brand. The now iconic logoed bag has been spotted on the arms of such celebrities as Meghan C. Stallion, Vanessa Hudgens, Tinashe, Zoe Kravitz, Beyoncé, Gabrielle Union, and many more.

Telfer's bags are always out of stock (so act fast.) I'm dying for a bag." me too. If classic designs are not available, look for jewelry, apparel, or collaborations with Converse and Moose Knuckles.

London-based designer Joanna Vanderpuije has worked with Alexander McQueen, Jonathan Saunders, and Ely Kishimoto. She launched her eponymous label in late 2017 with playful screen-printed apparel and accessories. All of her collections are hand printed and painted, true to her esprit of slow, sustainable fashion.

The brand offers sophisticated leather handbags designed in Brooklyn and manufactured in the Garment District; according to the VAVVOUNE website, its accessories are designed for "mood, moments of nostalgia, and functionality" (sing along! ). VAVVOUNE also contributes to the planet, donating scraps of processable leather to art programs across the country.

You won't find fringe handbags like these anywhere else. Founder Jean Baptiste created Petit Courrèges (open in new tab) as a way to express his "love of knitwear, sculpture, and identity." Each bag is handmade with organic cotton and 100% leather handles.

Petit Kouraj also works with D.O.T Haiti, a women-led organization that works closely with artisans to provide free education, job training, and accessible healthcare to low-income Haitians.

These handmade crocheted bags are instantly recognizable. They are the brainchild of London-based knitwear designer Peju Obasa, and are made from 100% recycled jersey yarn in a variety of colors. Obasa says she draws design inspiration from her Nigerian roots, travel, and food.

Since its founding in 2015, Kintu has gained a reputation for durable, 100% vegan tanned leather goods. Made in Italy but designed in New York, these luxury bags are sure to add a sophisticated and regal look to any outfit.

Helejané was launched in 2018 by Nigerian-born fashion designer Dolapo Deji-Torey. What we love about this brand is the way it is structured: casual, diva, glamorous/party, work, etc. Finally, an online store that understands us.

Fashion should be fun, and this brand of accessories is just that. Founder Courtney Elizabeth learned to sew from her grandmother and spent three hours making her first clutch bag. From there, the rest is history: in addition to clutch bags, she began making tote bags and waist bags. Today, she makes over 200 different handbags.

Now Cortnie has her own website, from which you can purchase one (or several) of her fun and inspirational designs. Happy shopping.

If you're looking for an innovative and sustainable handbag, look no further than EDAS; like many of EDAS' designs, the handles have wide, adjustable buckles. The EDAS website also offers a wide selection of mini bags.

CheyenneKimora was launched in 2015 and has become well known for its durags and mini crystal handbags called "blunt bags." They come in a variety of colors (see our favorite here (opens in new tab)). These bags are perfect for those who like to keep things small and can wear with any daytime outfit into the evening. If you're wondering where to show off this bag, the product description cheekily states: "For dinner dates, igues, and casual presentation."

Founded in 2011, Yvonne Kone produces bags that combine the calm minimalism of Denmark with the colorful vitality of Africa. In addition to handbags, there are matching wallets, bag charms, shoes, and leather insoles. Make this brand your new one-stop store for accessories.

Jamaican-Chinese designer Brandon Blackwood launched his first four-piece collection of leather handbags in spring 2015 to widespread critical acclaim. Since its launch, the brand has experimented with a variety of styles, including shearling, animal prints, and mesh. Relatively affordable by luxury standards, these items sell out quickly, so grab them ASAP.

Founder Laura Banjo's busy travel schedule during her time as a strategic consultant inspired her to create functional and versatile leather accessories that fit a variety of needs, including travel, work, and pure fashion statements. This unisex (...) line ranges from carryalls to tote bags to top handles like the Dubai Crossbody pictured above.

Amani Zama's passion for woodworking stems from her grandfather, who worked as a carpenter in Cameroon. Zama especially remembers his grandfather's use of an ancient process of steam bending wood.

Anima Iris founder Wilglory Tanjong is a very cool guy. After graduating from Princeton University with a degree in African Development, the Cameroonian-American traveled to Africa and drew inspiration from the countries she visited. Fascinated by the innovative textiles she found there, she decided to honor her African heritage through her designs, creating the unique shapes, colors, and textures now known as Anima Iris. In addition, her bags are fair trade (handmade by artisans in Senegal) and zero waste; it's a win-win-win.

Voni was founded by Jevoni McAllister, a registered nurse. She noticed a lack of diversity in the marketing of luxury handbags and decided to take matters into her own hands. The Los Angeles-based brand ranges from shoulder bags to cross-body styles, none of which cost more than $150, and is a leader in the luxury handbag market, offering a wide variety of handbags, including "the most expensive, the most comfortable, and the most versatile.