(Shopping)

Black-Owned Handbag Brands To Shop For Every Occasion

From wedding-appropriate clutches to everyday shoulder bags.

by Savannah Sitton and Valerie Stepanova

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: June 4, 2020

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

One of the major topics that emerged from the Black Lives Matter movement is the representation of Black-owned businesses in the retail space (both physical and virtual). It’s important to recognize a consumer’s power in deciding where and how to spend their money. In June 2020, Aurora James established the national 15 Percent Pledge, which is an initiative that calls on retailers to dedicate 15% of shelf space to Black-owned brands. If you’re inspired, you, too, can make a similar pledge on an individual level — like buying a new purse from a Black-owned handbag designer.

Whether or not you’re in the market for a new accessory at the moment, taking stock of where your fashion items come from is crucial to investing in the economic success of Black brands. The decision to support Black-owned companies puts money back in the hands of designers, who have historically been overlooked in the fashion world. In addition, We Buy Black and Black Owned Everything provides accessible methods for discovering emerging Black-owned businesses. (Fun fact: Beyoncé’s stylist Zerina Akers launched Black Owned Everything in November 2021.)

A couple of well-known, accessories labels such as James’ Brother Vellies and Telfar Clemens’ eponymous label (often seen on the arms of celebrities as their favorite It bag), might already be in your purse collection. However, Agnes Baddoo or Sade Mims’ beautifully sustainable brand EDAS might still be under your radar. Although the accessories below don’t constitute the only list of the talented Black purse designers out there, it’s a place to start your search and find your new favorite brand. Keep scrolling to discover 42 exceptional designs, below.

We at TZR only include products that have been independently selected by our editors. We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

YEBA

Oshu Mini Bag in Grape

€350

The architectural shape and the streamlined design of YEBA’s Oshu Mini bag will resonate with minimalist fashion lovers.

Khokho

The Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Colorblock

£290

With a detachable strap and a versatile two-tone design, this minaudière-style clutch is a perfect day-to-night bag.

Hogoè Kpessou

Lavender Bee Backpack

$220

A pastel-hued backpack, like this polished prep option from Hogoè Kpessou, can instantly elevate your spring/summer looks.

LarAllan

Tofe Velvet Clutch in Turquoise

£295

If you want to add a unique accessory into your wardrobe rotation, take note of this velvety clutch from LarAllan. Each piece is adorned with its own unique crystal ornament, so its designs are truly one-of-a-kind.

Bakwai

Rainbow Bag

$80

$60

This multicolored beaded bag will surely add a pop of color into all your outfits.

Orijin Culture

Medium Africa Shaped Bag / Backpack in Brown Leather

$349

$299

This bag’s shape is inspired by the geographical outline of Africa, which makes it one of the most unique styles on the market.

Homage Year

Homage Year

Ova Vinyl Top Handle Bag

$350

If you’re a self-proclaimed maximalist, this futuristic bag will seamlessly integrate into your rotation of eye-catching accouterments.

Silver & Riley

Convertible Executive Leather Bag in Olive Green

$695

This structured carryall bag is a must have for anyone who regularly attends professional engagements. Plus, it fits a 15-inch laptop.

Baldwin Era

Gigi Mini Bag

$129

The cherry red iteration of Baldwin Era’s Gigi Mini bag is a statement piece that will instantly jazz up any outfit.

Tree Fairfax

Constance Crossbody Bag

$185

Crossbody bags are a classic, wear-everywhere accessory that can fit into any wardrobe. For those who prefer a rustic, bohemian style, consider this hand-cut and stitched option from Tree Fairfax.

Telfar

Vegan Leather Medium Shopping Bag Lavender

$650

The Telfar tote is a coveted must have in every fashion girl’s wardrobe. Add this lavender-hued version to your wishlist — or to your virtual checkout cart, STAT.

Okapi

Nambi Bag in Brilliant Green

$970

Tap into the feathery accessory trend with this emerald-colored clutch from Okapi.

ANIMA IRIS

Black + White Zaza Bag

$500

For a stylish, goes-with-everything party purse, snag this geometric, miniature-sized top handle bag from ANIMA IRIS.

PERYTON

Skyrah Bag

$3,950

Bold and elegant, PERYTON’s Skyrah bag is suited for all occasions. You can carry this to work just as easily as you can style it with a breezy dress for the weekend.

Sarep + Rose

Sadie Crosspack in Black

$190

This functional belt bag from Sarep + Rose will carry your everyday essentials, so you can go hands-free.

Shekudo

Niwa Tote Bag

$270

Mix up your rotation of neutral-hued everyday bags with a more colorful option like Shekuda’s chromatic Niwa tote.

KAYADUA

Kaya Bag in Black

$86

To master 2022’s joyful fringe trend in a subtle (and affordable) way, snag this under-$100, hand-woven bag from KAYADUA.

CISE

PBP - Vegan Leather Mini Bag in Marigold

$150

If you’re a die-hard fan of Lizzo’s style, then follow the star’s lead by adding a CISE mini tote (like this marigold-hued option) to your virtual checkout cart, STAT.

ROOP

Baby ROOP Bag in Blue Gingham

£48

This quirky gingham accessory not only taps into the burgeoning checked print trend but will also be an effective conversation starter.

VAVVOUNE

Efa Bag in Ganache

$298

If you’re a fan of trendy accessories from It girl-beloved brands like BY FAR, grab this compact (yet roomy) bag from VAVVOUNE.

Brother Vellies

Lijadu Billfold Bag in Checkers

$1,495

For a summer bag that will match all your vacation outfits, grab this checkered Brother Vellies shoulder purse.

BruceGlen

Bruce Glen

Rainbow Metallic Sparkle Can Bag

$695

The rainbow-metallic color scheme of this joyful bag makes it the perfect piece to wear during Pride month — and beyond.

Peju Obasa

Sunmo Sandy Bag

£215

A vacation-ready take on the functional belt bag, this crochet raffia number from Peju Obasa is perfect for the beach or a poolside lunch date.

agnes baddoo

Agnes Baddoo

Sac 1 in Taupe

$715

Take note of the functional outside pocket on all of the Agnes Baddoo totes and satchels — including this medium-sized carryall option in an easy-to-style taupe shade.

Zashadu

Alpha Classic Bag in Grey Crocodile Embossed Leather

$480

For a budget-friendly croc-effect handbag, try this top handle Alpha style from Zashadu.

EDAS

Yshaia Bag in Navy

$435

The contrasting white buckle on this navy shoulder bag from EDAS is a subtle element that makes it stand out.

CheyenneKimora

4A.4 Opaque Bag

$325

This cardholder-sized accessory is small but mighty — and will promptly take any outfit to the next level.

ASHYA

Shema Slingback Bag in Onyx

$1,295

Those looking for a perfect day-to-night bag will want to get their hands on this sophisticated slingback style from ASHYA.

Bouswari

Nafa Crossbody Bag

$295

You can never go wrong with a black crossbody bag — and this tassel-adorned option from Bouswari is no exception.

LAURUS

Sascha Crocodile Bag in Bourbon

$6,395

If you’re in the mood to splurge, try this cool yet elegant crocodile leather bucket silhouette by LAURUS.

MIFLAND

Mini Messenger QS M Bag

$380

Vivid colors like red, yellow, and green perfectly blend together to make this miniature-sized satchel stand out.

F&W Style

Circa Bag in Red

$255

Sometimes you want to stick with the classics, but other times you need a little extra something to upgrade your look. Play around with this eye-catching shoulder bag, which features croc embossing and an unconventional hot pink interior.

Yvonne Koné

Johanna Suede Mini Bucket Bag in Confetto

$537

Made from supple Italian suede, this elegant bucket-shaped design is a timeless silhouette that suits most any occasion.

Tote&Carry

Grey Apollo Regular Duffle + Backpack

$250

$230

If you’re in need of a new carry-on (or two), make sure to snag this stylish travel set ASAP. They will come in particularly handy for all of your last-minute travels this summer and beyond.

Petit Kouraj

Mini Fringe Bag in Hibiscos

$375

Thanks to influencers and celebs like Cardi B, the craft trend is still going strong. Lean into it with this vibrant handheld accessory from Petit Kouraj.

MWR Collection

Chandra 38 Tote Bag in Black

$1,895

A spacious and durable tote, like this Chandra 38 style by MWR collection, is the perfect work bag everyone should have in their wardrobe.

Brandon Blackwood

Kuei Bag in White Leather

$215

The clean, structured shape of Brandon Blackwood’s Kuei bag will add a luxe touch to any look.

AAKS

Oroo Oak Bag

£240

This is a functional vacation must-have, but elevated. This summer-ready woven creation is crafted from colorful raffia fibers, interlaced into a variety of patterns for a striking look.

Mateo

Black Croc Elizabeth Bag

$395

Polished and edgy at the same time, this shiny, croc-embossed handbag will be a fantastic addition to your going-out ensemble.

REE PROJECTS

Helene Mini Bag in Scarlet

$517

$311

If you’re a fan of Scandinavian style, this unconventional handbag from REE PROJECTS is sure to be a beloved staple in your wardrobe.

This article was originally published on June 4, 2020