Top Black-Owned Fashion Brands Honored at 21Ninety Awards

Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, celebrating culture and reflecting spirit. For Black women, seeing themselves represented in the industry’s designers is crucial—not as an afterthought, but as the central focus. The 2025 21Ninety Awards recognized this importance by honoring trailblazers behind Black-owned fashion brands who are creating space, representation, and impact. Under the Lifestyle category, three visionary women were celebrated for their contributions to redefining style.

First Place Winner: Hanifa

Hanifa, founded by Anifa Mvuemba, has redefined high fashion by placing Black women’s silhouettes at the forefront. Known for its bold, vibrant, and culturally rooted designs, the luxury brand celebrates identity and style, with influence reaching global stages. Stars like Beyoncé and Savannah James have worn Hanifa, amplifying a brand that truly centers Black women. Mvuemba, inspired by her mother’s love for adornment, has created a groundbreaking line of gowns, evening wear, and bridal pieces that continue to make space for Black women in luxury fashion.

Second Place Winner: Fe Noel

Felisha “Fe” Noel draws inspiration from her Grenadian heritage for her womenswear brand, Fe Noel. Her line is characterized by eye-catching patterns, bright colors, and flowing silhouettes that are both glamorous and unapologetically celebratory of Black culture. Beyond her artistry, Noel is committed to mentorship through the Fe Noel Foundation, supporting young women with entrepreneurial aspirations. Fe Noel not only offers fashion that centers Black women but also inspires the next generation of designers.

Third Place Winner: Diarrablu

Founded by Senegal-raised multidisciplinary artist Diarra Bousso, Diarrablu distinguishes itself with a sustainable and size-inclusive approach to fashion. The brand’s striking designs, ranging from swimwear to matching sets, are deeply rooted in themes of identity, heritage, and cultural storytelling. Sustainability is a core principle, with a focus on reducing waste through algorithmic design and crowdsourcing. Many Diarrablu pieces are produced in Dakar, Senegal, honoring both the planet and the traditions of Black fashion.

Celebrating People Over Products

These 2025 21Ninety Award winners exemplify how fashion can be a force for positive change. The awards shifted focus this year from product-based categories to people-centered recognition, celebrating women who shape beauty, wellness, and lifestyle culture. Winners were selected based on their impact, community building, representation, innovation, consistency, and cultural influence, all while reflecting 21Ninety’s mission to empower Black women.