Cosmetics Archives - SHOPPE BLACK

Published on January 7, 2023January 9, 2023

4 mins read

New Year, New Brands: Black-Owned Brands To Start Your 2023 Right

As the new year begins, it’s important to consider the brands that we choose to support. Not only do our purchasing decisions impact our own lives, but they also have a ripple effect on the world at large.

In this article, we will discuss some Black-owned brands that are worth supporting in January and beyond. If you’re interested in shopping smarter this year and surrounding yourself with excellent products, we’ve got you covered.

Black-Owned Brands To Start Your 2023 Right

The Glamatory

The Glamatory is a vegan makeup line founded by Mimi J – well-known for her work as a professional makeup artist and beauty influencer.

Her mission is to provide products that enhance a woman’s natural beauty and confidence, no matter her skin color, making The Glammatory the perfect Black-owned brand to shop from if loving yourself more is one of your #2023goals.

Frances Grey

Frances Grey was founded by Debbie Lorenzo, a Jamaican-American born and raised in Queens, New York. Her great-grandmother, Frances Grey, was a seamstress whose history and dedication inspired Debbie’s pursuit of millinery and the creation of her own custom, luxury hat brand.

If you want to upgrade your wardrobe with aesthetic, sophisticated pieces, then shop Frances Grey.

Silver & Riley

Silver & Riley is a women-led luxury bag brand created by Lola Banjo. She takes pride in producing high-quality travel and fashion accessories in the same factories, with the same premium materials, as other high-fashion labels, and sells them at a fraction of the cost.

Shop smart, shop Black, and elevate your travel this year when you utilize Silver & Riley products.

Nurilens

In 2020, Dr. Juliette Nelson created Nurilens, an environmentally friendly eyewear brand. The company specializes in hand-crafted wood frames with polarized, high-index lenses that include blue light and UV protection. Nurilens empowers you to protect your eyes and the environment, all while looking chic.

Best Life Organics

Shadora Martin created Best Life Organics along her personal journey into elevated self-love. She started making natural, non-toxic, cruelty-free body-care products in her own home and continues to handcraft each of the products she shares with the world today. Best Life Organics allows you to support a small, Black-owned business and support yourself at the same time.

Mercia Moore

Art and culture collide at the Mercia Moore artisan studio. Merica, the founder, and creator behind the brand shares her studio creations through the shop and lends her skill via her active social media. Find African-inspired jewelry and homeware, and take up a new artistic hobby with your own Mercia Moore silicone molds.

Dressed in Joy

Be bold, and step out in statement-making style this year when you wear Dressed in Joy apparel. The founder, Mikaela Pabon, wanted to create an apparel brand that makes customers feel like they’re adorned in the personification of joy. The brand focuses on athleisure, inspiring comfortable confidence.

Instead of “new year, new you”, these Black-owned brands aim to elevate the unique qualities you already have.

With this list, we empower you to adorn yourself with culture, history, and joy and carry yourself with confidence and excellence everywhere you go.

Submit a brand for an upcoming list

Published on October 11, 2019

5 mins read

She Overcame a Health Scare and Launched a Successful Cosmetics Business

BeautyMarked & Co is a Philadelphia based business that offers quality vegan and cruelty free cosmetics and accessories. Founder, Nana Frimpong originally started doing makeup professionally in 2013 while she was in pharmacy school. Even while she worked as a full time pharmacist, she continued to do makeup on the side.

She recently developed a neuromuscular disease that comes with debilitating symptoms that render her unable to work as a pharmacist nor as a make up artist.

Despite this life changing event, Nana was compelled to make the most of her situation. In March of 2019, she started an e-commerce business selling her own brand of cosmetics and beauty accessories. “In a way, my sickness ended up being a blessing in disguise because it gave birth to what is now BeautyMarked & Co.” she says.

Intrigued, we decided to learn more about Nana and her entrepreneurial journey and goals.

How did you decide what products to offer?

As a makeup lover, I definitely wanted to start out with cosmetic products that would cater to everyone, from the busy working mom who doesn’t have time for a full face of makeup to the makeup artist trying to build a cost effective kit. So I started with lipsticks/glosses and mascara – two makeup essentials most women don’t go without.

Not everyone has the time or skill to wear false lashes so I really wanted to bring a mascara to the market that brings the most out of your natural lashes but doesn’t break the bank.

I also was fed up with the notion that black women could not wear certain (bright) lip colors because of their skin tone.

So, I shied away from the traditional brown nudes and came out with bright, dark, and bold colored lipsticks that anyone can wear regardless of their skin tone.

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All of my lipsticks can be worn alone or mixed to create unique shades that suit each individual and their preferences. In addition, for those that may not be interested in makeup, I wanted to offer additional beauty products that celebrate my Ghanaian culture. So, I decided to sell Ntoma (also known as Ankara) satin lined bonnets and headwraps.

Every aspect of the brand, from the logo to the product names are completely African inspired. Lipsticks are named after African cities, lip glosses are named after African desert regions, while the bonnets/headwraps are named after the Ghanaian women in my family and common female names of my Ashanti tribe.

What do you like most about owning a business? What do you like least?

The most rewarding aspect of owning a business is definitely working for myself. It’s a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, trial and error but it’s definitely worth it knowing I’m working towards building my own brand. The downside is the time it takes away from my personal life.

For now, I handle all aspects of my business including product development, customer service, social media marketing, etc. and that can be very time consuming.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

I would eventually like to focus solely on cosmetics. I hope to develop a full line of cosmetic products and to make BeautyMarked & Co. a world renowned brand.

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What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

My first piece of advice to those thinking about starting a business is to start now, with what you have, no matter how small it may be.

There’s never a “right” time to start and you’ll never be prepared enough until you actually take a leap of faith and start. Entrepreneurship is a learning curve; mistakes, failure, trial and error are apart of the process and crucial to learning and ultimately becoming successful.

I would also advise aspiring entrepreneurs to get rid of any negativity, both from yourself and those around you. Fear and doubt are the enemies of success. Entrepreneurship is all about taking risks; the greater the risk the greater the reward.

Sponsored by BeautyMarked & Co.

Published on February 20, 2019December 11, 2021

1 min read

Black Owned Makeup and Cosmetics Brands You Should Know

Black consumers account for a disproportionate amount of product sales in a number of consumer goods categories. One of these categories is Beauty. Almost 86% of the $63.5 million spent on “Ethnic Hair and Beauty Aids” is attributed to Black consumers.

I’m sure you would agree that Black owned beauty brands should be getting these coins. Here are a few you can support. As usual, let us know which others you think should be on the list!

Black Owned Makeup Brands

Laws of Nature Cosmetics

GloGirl Cosmetics

MDMflow

The Candy Lady

Einnaf Cosmetics

MFMG

The Lip Bar

Lamik Beauty

Gold Label Cosmetics

Beauty Bakerie

Juvia’s Place

127 East Cosmetics

Mented Cosmetics

Tony O. Lawson

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Published on October 11, 2018

1 min read

19 Black Makeup Artists That Are Making their Mark

Thanks to social media, especially YouTube and Instagram, Black makeup artists are reaching potential clients, earning money and growing legions of fans who love their work.

If you’re one of the millions people that want to learn how do everything from everyday looks to halloween costume makeup, check out these Black Makeup Artists for some tips and inspiration.

Black Makeup Artists

(@lakenlasheir_mua)

@arjiapmua

@erbodyluhgrannie

@_gabriellaelena

@katkarmalust

@iamcharityleigh

@glamxkam

@toniolaoye1

@glamz_junkie

@nymatang

@beautywithtaffy

@southerncutbeauty

@jarrytheworst

@glambyninagilbert

@princessbellaaa

@issheblackorazn

@laomizbeauty_mua

@keishadesvignes

@fiercefacesbybrianna

-Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson (IG @thebusyafrican)

Published on July 18, 2018July 18, 2018

4 mins read

This Black Owned Makeup Brand Is Now Valued at Over $1 Billion

Pat McGrath Labs, the eponymous cosmetics company launched by the legendary makeup artist back in 2016, has just hit a major financial milestone.

On Monday, New York City-based investment firm Eurazeo Brands announced that it had struck a $60 million deal to become a minority shareholder in the company.

Eurazeo’s investment brings Pat McGrath Labs‘ total external funding to $88 million, according to a press release from the firm. While the specific terms of the deal were not disclosed, industry sources estimate that Eurazeo took a 5 to 8 percent stake in the company, putting its full valuation at more than $1 billion, according to a report by WWD, which also projects that the brand will bring in more than $60 million in sales for 2018.

Pat McGrath Labs has become a popular staple at Sephora, reaching top-selling SKU status and attracting a reported 30 billion social media impressions since its debut. In its two years of business, it has outpaced many other brands, no doubt capturing the attention of industry executives and legacy corporations.

There has been some speculation in the industry as to what the next step, business-wise, would be for the fledgling hit, but for McGrath, the objective of her line has remained constant.

“It has always been my dream to create an iconic beauty brand that goes beyond the usual limitations, that lives outside the parameters of what is expected,” said McGrath in a statement via press release. “I am thrilled to be working with the unique and expert team at Eurazeo Brands.”

Erazeo’s previous investments within the beauty sector include Nest Fragrances, while its fashion investments include Moncler, Vestiaire Collective and Farfetch. It joins McGrath and existing investor ONE Luxury Group (also believed to be a minority stakeholder) in efforts to scale the brand, expand its product offerings and grow its global footprint.

“We are honored to be working with Pat, whose vision, talent and trailblazing history in the beauty industry have set Pat McGrath Labs up to be one of the most authentic and innovative makeup brands to ever come to market,” said Jill Granoff, CEO of Eurazeo Brands, via a press statement.

“We’re excited to combine our experience of building global beauty and fashion brands with Pat and her team’s unmatched creativity and passion.” Granoff, who herself has an extensive background in beauty, spent a decade in senior leadership roles at Estée Lauder and in Victoria’s Secret’s beauty division.

As for what this investment will mean for the company, it’s all about expansion. Pat McGrath Labs is currently sold online at PatMcGrathLabs.com and Sephora.com and in 54 Sephora doors; in the U.S., the brand plans to expand into 90 Sephora stores in the fall, as well as continue building on its “drop” product release strategy. It will also forge ahead with merch and apparel.

“The next phase is to continue our incredible trajectory,” said McGrath exclusively to Fashionista. “We have been so blessed to have such an engaged and passionate customer base and the aim is to continue to provide them with more groundbreaking, straight-from-the-runway products and a makeup experience that they cannot get anywhere else.

I get so much joy and satisfaction when I see how much our loyal customers love the products, it fuels us to come up with even more innovative creative ideas.”

Source: Fashionista

Published on July 24, 2016June 3, 2020

5 mins read

Black Owned Businesses in Brooklyn You Should Know

Over the past decade, countless Black owned businesses in Brooklyn (and nationwide) have fallen victim to gentrification.

Rising rents and leases are forcing businesses to close. However, there are still many Black owned businesses and institutions that have weathered the storm and continue to provide great goods and service.

Black Owned Businesses in Brooklyn

The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA) aims to serve as a conduit for African Diaspora forms of expression ranging from the visual and performing arts to film and television.

Calabar Imports is a trendy, specialty retail and gift store that offers home furnishings, unique crafted jewelry, fashion, and gifts sold at moderate prices.

Khamit Kinks is a natural hair care salon that specializes in natural hairstyles and maintaining healthy hair.

Akwaaba Mansion is a meticulously restored Italianate villa that features exquisite architectural details, including 14-foot ceilings and ornate fireplaces.

Richol Bakery combines French tradition with an American Flair, including a light menu of quiche & panini, plus pastries & elegant French-style desserts.

Adrian Fanus Grooming is a highly rated barbershop that tailors to each client’s grooming experience to maximize his/her own personal and unique sense of style.

From old school haircuts styles to the most current popular hairstyles , Brooklyn Master Barbershop focuses on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction.

Levels’ is a multifaceted barbershop that specializes in styling, grooming, and overall hair care for men, women, and children. Founders: Kamal Nuru, Larry Wilson and Denorval Parks

BCakeNY is a custom cake studio dedicated to creating specialty cakes for every occasion. Owner & Cake Designer: Miriam Milord

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Ms.Dahlias Cafe specializes in baked eats, including biscuits & muffins, plus light fare in cozy digs.

A remarkably preserved slice of the prohibition era, Bedford Hall is the perfect combination of a Bar, Lounge, and Events Space.

La Caye offers authentic Haitian cuisine & inventive sangrias in an intimate, art-hung space with outdoor dining.

The Crabby Shack is your destination for all things crabs! They dish up crab in full plates with sides, as well as in rolls, tacos & sliders.

Bed-Vyne Brew Bar is a pub with a reclaimed wood decor serves draft microbrews & hosts DJs from Wednesday to Saturday.

Blew Smoke is a sophisticated cigar lounge with Wi-Fi, TVs, private humidors & a BYOB drink policy.

Brooklyn Bell is an ice cream shop that sells classic & seasonal flavors & other housemade sweets.

Brooklyn Swirl is the first independently-owned frozen yogurt shop to serve the Brooklyn Community. They serve crepes & smoothies in bright modern digs with a patio & free WiFi.

Brooklyn Wine Yard is an intimate lounge, serving up an upscale atmosphere with great wines, spirits, beers, and tasty food.

Bati is a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, located in the heart of Fort Greene, Brooklyn, dedicated to serving authentic delicacies that possess homemade quality flavors.

Jollof Restaurant is a West African eatery with colorful art-filled walls serving a variety of Senegalese and other West African dishes.
Joire’s Spa Studio is a beauty salon that offers different types of hair extensions, full body waxing, teeth whitening, and Henna tattooing.

Joshua Dwain Photography is an international wedding photography husband and wife team.

Ifetayo Cultural Arts Academy is a community-based arts and cultural organization dedicated to supporting the creative, educational, and vocational development of disadvantaged youth and families.

Dwana Smallwood Performing Arts Center uses dance to encourage, inspire, and facilitate the aspirations of New York’s inner-city youth.

Big Apple Urgent Care is an urgent care and community wellness center located in the heart of East Flatbush, Brooklyn.

Greedi Vegan is a vegan restaurant that offers fast-casual vegan soul food.

Harlem Hops is a bar that offers craft local & world beers & international pub grub.

Cafe Rue Dix is a French and Senegalese cafe, restaurant, and bar located in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

Marche Ru Dix is a trendy concept store featuring a curated selection of vintage clothing, jewelry & home goods.

–Tony O. Lawson

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Published on February 21, 2016September 12, 2022

1 min read

20 Black Owned Makeup Brands You Should Know

According to a recent report by McKinsey & Co., Black consumers spent $6.6 billion on beauty products in 2021, 11 percent of the total $60 billion beauty industry.

I’m sure you would agree that Black owned beauty brands should be getting these coins. Here are a just few.