The Black

Listen up, guys. If you’ve been wearing the same pair of jeans or sweats for longer than you can remember, it’s time to make a change. I know this can be a touchy subject, but consider this a safe space.

The idea of updating your look doesn’t have to be scary or painful. From well-tailored suiting to colorful, culturally-inspired streetwear, there are lots of great styles to choose from – including basics that work with pieces already in your closet (unless, of course, we’re talking about those ten-year-old sweatpants that have surely seen better days).

If you’re looking to elevate your look, these Black-owned clothing brands and designers for men need to be on your radar.

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Denim Tears was founded in 2019 by designer and creative consultant Tremaine Emory. From tees and sweats to jackets and jeans, the casual, stylish pieces are inspired by the African diaspora. We can’t get enough of the Tiger of Harlem Souvenir Jacket.

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Armando Cabral got his start on the runway, modeling for well-known brands like Louis Vuitton, Balmain and J. Crew. His love of fashion shows in his well-crafted line of footwear that is stylish enough to make a statement, but classic enough to stand the test of time. The BALANTA Slip-On Espadrille is one of our favorites.

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Frère’s well-tailored pieces are perfect for the man who wants to make a statement. Best known for suiting and outerwear in colorful fabrics and unique prints, it’s no wonder well-dressed men like Diddy and Jay-Z are among the stars who have rocked these looks on the red carpet.

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A-Cold-Wall is contemporary streetwear with a futuristic vibe. Inspired by London street culture, this line is cool without even trying.

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If you think men’s footwear has to be boring, you haven’t checked out Chris Echevarria’s Blackstock & Weber brand. Using unconventional styles, colors and patterns, his updated take on loafers and mules will give you some serious shoe game.

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For modern sportswear with vintage feel, we love Nicholas Daley. His Jamaican and Scottish roots come through in every piece in this 70s inspired collection.

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For elevated casual clothing and accessories, look no further than Daily Paper.

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Every well-dressed man knows it’s not just about the clothes. You have to come through with the accessories to make your look complete. No one knows accessories like Brooklyn-based jewelry designer Johnny Nelson. His pieces, made of fine metals and stones (like this Black Panther Party necklace), are inspired by Black culture.

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Whether it’s tailored outerwear or casual athletic-inspired gear, Wales Bonner has you covered. The collab with adidas, featuring sneakers and separates is a great place to start.

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Award-winning designer Bianca Saunders is here to breathe new life into menswear with pieces that push the envelope around shape and color. One of our favorite examples is the Larda Leather Jacket, a grained leather jackets with embossed stripes and tan stitching that add creative, yet subtle details.

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Fear of God is a line of luxury streetwear with a modern twist. From sweats and tees to shorts and denim, this is the place for neutral basics that are perfect for everyday wear.

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Renowned is an LA-based brand of streetwear created by John Dean III. You’ll want to live in these comfortable and stylish athletic-inspired pieces that are almost too cool to get sweaty.

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For men’s contemporary fashion and streetwear, look no further than The Brooklyn Circus. Launched by Creative Director Ouigi Theodore in 2006, these tailored, casual clothes give Cooley High vibes with a modern-day twist.

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