5 Black-owned swimwear companies for your vacation this Summer
Say goodbye to long sleeves, summer is coming! It’s time to start planning those beach vacations, and more importantly, your swimwear. Why settle for the boring suits you usually default to? Here are five Black-owned swimwear companies to buy your next show-stopping swimsuit from.
EgoSwim is unique in its message and intentional in its mission - “to create a judgment free zone for confident women, go-getters, the travel enthusiast, the bossy chick.“ Started by a group of friends with a shared love of travel and swimwear photo-ops, the company prides itself on its message of inclusivity, and the vibe is laid-back and fun. This Jade two-piece swimsuit is no exception with cheetah print, off-shoulder sleeves, a gold ring accent, and high-waisted bottoms. It’s a brand worth supporting this summer and beyond.
Self-taught Marcia Maxwell founded her swim company in 2017 and launched her first collection in 2019. Highly structural and non-traditional, her pieces embody architectural artistry in addition to functionality. This Desire bikini speaks for itself as thoughtfully-placed cut-out patterns artfully reveal plenty of skin while covering the necessities. Her pieces are unlike any other swimsuits on the market - definitely a must-have look for the summer.
Andrea Iyamah - Guru Bikini in Euros Print
Nigerian-Canadian fashion designer Andrea Iyamah founded her own line of clothing when she was just 18 years old, with the mission of celebrating her African roots through the expression of design. The influence is seen in African-inspired prints and bold colors, but with one-of-a-kind looks like this corset bikini. Its high-waisted cut is ultra-flattering and gives the appearance of having legs for days - a major plus for those of us on the shorter scale. Plus, it’s hot pink and yellow for hot girl summer. Who doesn’t love that?
lemlem - Medallion Deep V One-Piece
Ethiopia-native Liya Kebede began lemlem after a visit home in an effort to provide work opportunities to traditional weavers. The production of these gorgeous goods takes place in Africa (primarily Ethiopia, Kenya, and Morocco) by local artisans. Many feature unique prints like this green one-piece halter-top suit. It’s a company with beautiful quality clothing, and an even lovelier origin story.
Fe Noel - Gatsby Palm Two-Tone Puff Sleeve
Brooklyn-born designer Felisha Noel started her career in the fashion industry at the tender age of 19. She draws inspiration and influence from her Caribbean roots and the strong women in her family. Much of Fe Noel’s swim line showcases puffy sleeves, like the ones shown here, to create a bold signature look. Their recent Spring Collection collab with Target sold out instantaneously upon being released - between the cut-outs, the prints, and the colors, her designs are hard to beat.
Kayra Raecke is a proud brown queer Los Angeles-born neurodivergent with a predilection for syntax, mild cat obsession, and a collection of odd hobbies.
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