Alexa play Lizzo “Like a Girl.”

Historically on Style in Full Bloom, I have highlighted brands that promote women’s empowerment, a close tie to the work I am most passionate about as a public health researcher. In recognition of Women’s History Month, I am celebrating a few women-owned brands and my favorite pieces from their collections.

Shade Akanbi – Designer and Founder, The Printed Pattern People

Shade Akanbi is the Designer for and Founder of The Printed Pattern People, a brand celebrating cultures through fashion and goods and using textiles created by artisans from around the world. You can find everything from kimonos, kaftans, and saris to wax print sneakers and accessories. Shade recently designed this gorgeous pajama set, which is available exclusively at Anthropologie. The “Shadé Akanbi Harvest Pajama Set” fits as beautifully as it is designed. It’s made with viscose fabric, so it is super soft and comfortable. I’ve spent the entire day lounging around the house in this set and I seriously cannot get enough of it. The translation of traditional ethnic designs into modern looks, including from her Nigerian culture, is a part of Shade’s design aesthetic and translates seamlessly through these pieces.

Dani Nagel – Designer and Founder, Dazey LA

I was excited to see Dazey LA recently featured in Anthropologie as well. Dazey LA is a sustainable fashion company aiming to empower women and promote positivity. I purchased this mug at Anthropologie (it is on sale now) and you can find the matching tee (pictured below) on the Dazey LA site. The brand features a variety of products, including tees that “stand for something”, which designer Dani Nagel designs by hand in Los Angeles. Tees with quotes like “People for the planet” and “Mental health matters” take a social stance, are conversation starters, and I also love the artistic design. As a slow fashion company, everything is made in small batches. Use my ambassador code “BLOOM333” to receive 10% off your purchase at Dazey LA.

 Angel – Owner, Tēm N(y)o͞oˈMənē™

Tēm N(y)o͞oˈMənē™ is another Black-woman owned apparel company featuring apparel made from 100% organic cotton. You can find your basics with this company, like sweats, hoodies, crewnecks, and tees – perfect casual wear and lounging pandemic options. My “I am my ancestors wildest dreams” t-shirt was custom designed by the company, so they are a great option for the custom designed apparel needs for your brand or for personal customization as well.

Akosua Afriyie-Kumi – Designer and Co-Founder, AAKS

I first learned about this brand on the “Women who Travel” podcast by Conde Nast Traveler. A A K S was founded by Akosua Afriyie-Kumi with the goal of “introducing the world to her favorite weaving techniques done by the women of Ghana while also creating and igniting sustainable jobs within Africa.” Her story is also inspiring. She discussed her early childhood interests in art and design at a time where career paths in the visual arts were not typically appreciated and celebrated.

The handmade bags are colorful and stylish and Baw Pot Natural bucket bag (pictured below) is my favorite style from the collection. A A K S recently launched ‘Weaving for Change’, a weaving initiative benefiting refugee artisans in Burkina Faso through fair and ethical work. I can picture the stunning Ihaya Lamp (pictured below) in my new home. It is a part of the limited edition collection of home décor products featured through this initiative.

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I hope you enjoyed this post and found a few new brands to support. Follow me on Instagram for more fashion inspiration (@ayannainbloom) and subscribe to my newsletter for regular updates.

Be well.