Meet Six Black and Indigenous Brands/Store That Center Sustainability
For our monthly theme, 'Sustainability,' here is a round-up of sustainable places where you can shop.
At FRD, our theme for April is “Sustainability.” This month, we’re diving into why—and how—sustainability and race are deeply connected through our research and events.
In this post, I wanted to share a few sustainable fashion brands that have caught my eye lately. Definitely not a full list of all the amazing ones out there, but these are some that I find especially inspiring!
Anne Mulaire is a sustainable, size-inclusive fashion brand founded by Andréanne (Anne) Mulaire Dandeneau. Anne draws inspiration from her Anishinaabe and French Métis roots from the Red River Nation on Treaty 1 territory, blending cultural heritage into every design.
From day one, Anne Mulaire has been all about creating fashion that’s kind to both people and the planet. The brand focuses on sustainability, quality, and honoring the stories behind its roots. In 2024, they proudly took home the Sustainable Economy Award at the very first Gala Awards for Red River Métis Entrepreneurs.
Ginew is the first Native American-owned and designed denim brand in the world. Founded on the values of heritage, craftsmanship, and community, Ginew weaves family symbols and teachings into each garment, all while focusing on quality, made-in-USA construction.
At its core, Ginew is about Native Americans uplifting Native Americans—creating pieces rooted in tradition, meant to be worn by everyone. Every item is thoughtfully designed and built, carrying stories and traditions from the founders’ Ojibwe, Oneida, and Stockbridge-Munsee roots in the Great Lakes region.
Through the brand, they’re able to share their Indigenous identities in a modern, meaningful way. The clothing is made using materials provided by nature, with a strong commitment to local and sustainable production whenever possible.
Studio 189, co-founded by Abrima Erwiah and Rosario Dawson , is a fashion lifestyle brand and social enterprise that’s all about artisan craftsmanship and social impact. Made in Africa, the brand creates both African and African-inspired clothing and content, blending traditional techniques with contemporary style.
Studio 189 has received major recognition, including winning the prestigious CFDA Lexus Fashion Initiative for Sustainability and becoming a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Grant recipient.
The brand runs an ecommerce store, a manufacturing facility in Accra, and supports a range of community-led projects in both Africa and the U.S. They work closely with artisan communities who specialize in traditional techniques like natural plant-based indigo dyeing, hand-batik, kente weaving, and more.
Studio 189 is about empowerment—creating jobs, supporting education, and providing skills training. They also collaborate with partners like the United Nations ITC Ethical Fashion Initiative and NYU Stern School of Business to help expand their impact.
Founded in 2019 by Nigerian fashion entrepreneur Reni Abina, Rendoll is a contemporary womenswear brand that celebrates self-expression, confidence, and femininity. At Rendoll, the goal is simple: to make every woman feel beautiful and empowered in her own skin.
The brand is rooted in body positivity and thoughtful design, creating pieces that inspire confidence and celebrate individuality. Rendoll partners with fabric suppliers and manufacturers from around the world and every piece is brought to life by talented artisans who are supported with fair wages, flexible working conditions, and mutual respect.
ASHYA is a luxury leather goods label offering an unconventional alternative to the traditional handbag, with multi-functional, gender-neutral designs.
Co-founded and co-creative directed by duo Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece, ASHYA was born as an ode to exploration—created to serve as a bridge between design and travel. Inspired by Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities and the fluidity of modern life, their design philosophy centers on effortless mobility and essentialism.
Staying mindful of the ecosystem, ASHYA crafts its sleek, streamlined bags from vegetable-tanned leather and produces collections in small batches to reduce waste.
Last on my list is The Collective at IndigoStyle, a Black-owned vintage store founded by Sheryl Roberts. It’s more than just a shop—it’s a go-to destination where the community can find something special for themselves, pick up a unique gift, refresh their space, or elevate their personal style.
Through global sourcing, creative entrepreneurship, and a strong sense of collaboration, The Collective at IndigoStyle curates an eclectic mix of vintage fashion, custom clothing, home goods, beauty products, and more. The focus is on one-of-a-kind pieces from local indie artisans and emerging designers, making every visit a chance to discover something truly unique.