This week has seen worldwide protests and outrage after the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, in Minneapolis. His name is the latest tragic addition to the long list of black people who were killed in police custody.

Between the coronavirus—which has affected black Americans at a disproportionately high rate—and the communal grieving that comes with losing another black life, black people are facing more daily trauma on a regular basis. Accordingly, it’s critical to find ways to support the black community in this harrowing time.

A post is not enough. Putting money in the pockets of Black business owners is one of the many things anyone can do right now to help dismantle white supremacy and create an anti-racist society.

Brother Vellies’s designer Aurora James made a strong argument in a recent Instagram post, urging major retailers to buy at least 15% of their products from black-owned businesses. “So many of your businesses are built on Black spending power,” she wrote. “So many of your stores are set up in Black communities.” If retailers were able to make the 15% pledge, she continued, then “real investment will start happening in black businesses which will subsequently be paid forward into our black communities.” In the spirit of such investment and redistribution of wealth, you can help black business owners by purchasing from them directly.

Here are just a few of the black-owned swimwear brands to support now and always!

ANDREA IYAMAH

Founded by Nigerian fashion designer Dumebi Iyamah,  Andrea Iyamah is a clothing line strongly inspired by color and ethnic cultures. Although Andrea Iyamah is popularly recognized for its eccentric and unique take on swimwear, using vibrant colors and cuts inspired by an array of African cultures, the brand also specializes in ready-to-wear and custom-made special event dresses. Since 2013 the brand’s African heritage and retro aesthetic have inspired the colors and themes of each collection.

BFYNE

Bfyne is bold, eccentric, cohesive and consistent, which encompasses the personality of its cofounder, designer Buki Ade. Bfyne is all about creating super-sexy, flattering designs with awesome colors & prints. With her love for dressing to the nines for every occasion, her undying passion for fashion, and her risk taking chances takes this brand to another level

RIOT SWIM

You might start a Riot on the beach in this swimwear line. Their most recent Collection is a jaw-dropper itself with solid colors and unconventional cut-outs.

NIC HYL

A brand we spotlighted earlier this week, Nic Hyl is a lifestyle brand, born for the woman who loves travel, the relaxed life that comes from the whispers of the waves, and living her life as authentically as possible.

OFUURE

This award-winning African fashion brand is known for its bold, fearless patterns. Look fabulous in one of their high waisted bathing suits with matching headpieces.

ASHERA SWIMWEAR

Model turned designer Cheryl Cejae Jones exudes confidence and appreciation for women’s naturally curvy bodies with Asherah Swimwear. Bikinis, one-pieces, matching headpieces, shawls, and other items are also developed by Jones with a signature gold emblem hand sew on.

KOKO D.

Koko D. Swimwear channels that inner self who takes risks and live life to the fullest. Featuring vibrant colors and abstract designs, Koko D pulls from designer Tamara Cummings’ Caribbean heritage for a lively, glamorous, and unforgettable swimwear collection.

KASS SWIM

KASS SWIMWEAR is a daring & exotic brand, Individually crafted & inspired by universal culture. Through the use of vibrant colors, KASS SWIMWEAR is able to reach the young and contemporary global woman. We understand each “kass girl” is unique in her own way. We exhibit a strong social presence & a well established philanthropy plan, targeting a cultured consumer base.

EYEGASMIC SWIMWEAR

Eyegasmic is a premium swimwear brand created for the world’s sexiest men. Eyegasmic’s mission is to define and capture all aspects of sexy with the believe that sexy is more than just a cute smile or chiseled body, but being able to confidently stand in your own skin and embrace exactly who you are.