The fashion industry has made strides in representation, but when it comes to accessories, significant gaps remain. Black-owned sunglasses brands have long been neglected, despite offering unique contributions through luxury craftsmanship, cultural narratives, and innovative perspectives on eyewear.
Today’s consumers are increasingly mindful of their spending choices. Supporting Black-owned eyewear brands is an investment in businesses that prioritize inclusivity, innovation, and authenticity. These brands are no longer niche alternatives; they are actively influencing the industry’s future. For those seeking to shop thoughtfully and support independent creators, these brands merit attention.
Style With Purpose
Wearing a product designed by someone who truly understands your experience can be deeply meaningful. Many Black-owned sunglasses brands emerged because their founders identified gaps in the market, not only in representation but also in fit, design language, and price accessibility. Their eyewear does more than look good; it embodies a distinct viewpoint.
Discover These Black-Owned Sunglasses Brands…
Elisa Johnson — LA Magnificence
Since its launch in May 2021, Elisa Johnson’s brand has been a favorite among style enthusiasts. Johnson’s passion for eyewear began at a young age, leading her to study fashion in New York City and gain experience with eyewear manufacturers and designers.
Her experiences revealed a market full of options but lacking luxury eyewear brands led by Black founders, as well as a gap between high-quality craftsmanship and affordable pricing. Her brand bridges this gap, combining classic silhouettes with modern style, offering luxury at more accessible prices.
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12PM Studios — A Husband-and-Wife Vision
The concept of 12PM Studios was inspired by the image of the sun at noon: steady, clear, and intentional. Co-founded by fashion creative Jenee Naylor and photographer Joshua Prieto, the brand combines their creative instincts to create personal and polished lifestyle eyewear.
12PM Studios challenges the notion that luxury must be exclusive. Their designs are modern and thoughtful, emphasizing that confidence and style should be accessible to all, not just those with endless budgets.
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Coco and Breezy — NYC Icons Since 2009
Coco and Breezy, founded in 2009 by twin sisters Corianna and Brianna Dotson, have become cultural icons in independent eyewear. Their bold, unisex designs are known as wearable art and have been worn by artists like Prince, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna, highlighting the brand’s cultural impact.
Each collection is thoughtfully crafted, featuring blue-light protection and frame names that reflect community values. Coco and Breezy are a go-to for those seeking longevity and cultural significance.
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Vontélle — Eyewear That Honors Heritage
Established in 2019 by Tracy Vontélle Green and Nancey Harris, Vontélle is a Black women-owned luxury eyewear brand that celebrates cultural pride and inclusive design. Drawing inspiration from African, Caribbean, and Latin cultures, their frames incorporate vibrant patterns like mudcloth and kente.
Vontélle addresses the industry’s oversight of diverse face structures, evolving from a Brooklyn startup to a nationally recognized brand while maintaining its cultural focus.
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Kimeze — London Luxury, Italian Craftsmanship
Kimeze, established in 2021 by London sisters Clare and Christina Kimeze, designs frames in London and handcrafts them in Italy. The brand focuses on accommodating lower and wider nose bridges, a feature often neglected by luxury eyewear.
Worn by notable figures like Lewis Hamilton and Simone Ashley, Kimeze has made its own mark in high fashion.
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Tribal Eyes: Purpose-Driven Eyewear from Atlanta
Tribal Eyes, founded in 2020 by Dr. Ona Utuama, embodies a purpose-driven ethos. The Atlanta-based brand creates unisex frames inspired by diverse cultures and handcrafted in Italy.
Beyond aesthetics, Tribal Eyes is committed to social impact, donating a percentage of sales to provide protective eyewear to underserved communities in Nigeria. Its inclusion in the ATLFW x Bloomingdale’s Retail Incubator highlights its growing success.
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Off-White: The Legacy of Virgil Abloh
No discussion of Black-owned sunglasses brands is complete without mentioning Off-White and its founder, Virgil Abloh. Established in 2013, Off-White exemplified Abloh’s vision of blending streetwear with luxury fashion.
The brand’s eyewear collections are known for bold silhouettes and cultural relevance, continuing to influence premium streetwear even after Abloh’s passing in 2021.
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Redefining Fashion, One Frame at a Time
The eyewear industry is gradually reflecting its diverse audience, driven by Black entrepreneurs and designers. From Elisa Johnson’s affordable luxury to Vontélle’s culturally inspired storytelling and Kimeze’s emphasis on inclusive design, these brands are redefining what sunglasses can mean.
If you want to enhance your collection, consider exploring beyond the familiar names. The next wave of iconic frames is already here, spearheaded by Black-owned sunglasses brands refusing to be sidelined.
Featured image: @elisajohnson.co/Instagram
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