The days are getting warmer and the summer is right around the corner, so poolside days and beach getaways are on the horizon. This means that it’s time to start searching for the perfect swimwear and we’re here to help you out! From bold prints to flattering cuts and innovative designs, we’ve compiled a list of Black-owned brands that not only reflect our rich diversity and culture, but also offer styles that understand, embrace and celebrate our body types.
Andrea Iyamah
Nigerian-Canadian designer Andrea Iyamah is well-known for her vibrant and dynamic designs, and her bold swimwear pieces are equally show-stopping.
Kaiso Swim
Drawing inspiration from her Trinbagonian heritage, Trishelle Leacock founded Kaiso Swim, which features flattering silhouettes, bold patterns and vibrant designs that embody an authentic Caribbean aesthetic.
Melissa Simone
Founded in 2018, this brand is focused on creating “high-quality, luxurious pieces [inspired] by the timeless silhouettes and classic beauty standards of the nineties” and features both swim and resort wear.
MBM Swim
Designed by Marcia B Maxwell (AKA MBM), this brand is all about silhouettes and structures. A self-taught designer, Marcia creates clean and elegant swimwear pieces.
Vali + Sella Swimwear
Named after her daughters, Stephanie Roberts founded Vali + Sella in 2021 as a “haven for self–love and expression”. Offering a variety of hand-beaded and -crafted statement pieces with beautiful prints that cater to all body types, the brand is designed to empower women to feel confident.
Bfyne
Recognizing the need for representation, Bfyne was created by Nigerian designer, Buki Ade, as a tribute to her deep African heritage. It features bright colors, bold designs and unique silhouettes.
Bēchë
Designer Cyprianna Green founded Bēchë in 2016 after noticing a lack of swimwear options in Turks and Caicos, her birthplace, which inspires the creative direction of the brand. Through Bēchë, she aims to tell sorties that capture the “uniqueness and simplicity of her country.”
Asherah Swimwear
Founded by Cheryl “Cejae” Jones, Asherah Swim features carefully handmade, sustainable pieces with one-of-a-kind prints and designs.
House of Jem
St. Lucian designer and entrepreneur, Jemima Harrigan, founded House of Jem as a brand that prides itself on “quality and creativity.” Offering worldwide shipping, each piece is carefully designed and “handmade to perfection”.
AudeSwim
Born in Côte d’Ivoire, Aude Harris established AudeSwim as a means of celebrating African culture. Inspired by the culture, people and textile of clothing in the Ivory Coast, her brand features swimwear with beautiful African tribal prints for men and women.
Riot Swim
With a focus on luxury and inclusivity, Monti Landers and her husband, Cedric, launched Riot Swim, finding inspiration in ‘80s and ’90s designs. Committed to celebrating and embracing diversity in body types and complexions, Riot Swim focuses on elegance and simplicity.
