Luxuriously Black: The HBCU Student Edition
Historically Black Colleges and Universities produce some of the world’s most creative individuals. Photography, handbags, and hair accessories are just a few of the Black luxury products students create. With Black luxury being a big part of social status, people are always hunting to find the next big trend. Glitter took the time out to highlight some student-led black own businesses below.
IEMBE
Clark Atlanta University (CAU), Alumni Travis Di’meer Terry has created the perfect handbag for all seasons of the year. Inspired by a mishap on a college spring break trip to Miami, FL, the student used the remainder of his student refund check to create his million-dollar business.
Starting small, Terry began to buy reusable bags from Amazon stamping his brand on the plain bag. Not giving up on his vision, he started manufacturing his handbags, the handbags soon became the buzz around Atlanta. Partnering with Ashanti, Fabulous, and many more celebrities, he created a three-in-one handbag. The IEMBE purse turns into a clutch, crossover, and a book bag.
The term Black luxury falls in the industry when we hear names like Telfar and Brandon Blackwood. One thing that Travis says is, “You define Luxury.” Travis is creating an inclusive brand so that everyone feels luxurious. The word IEMBE is a unique way of saying “In My Bag.”
Inspired by Telfar, the young artist expressed his thoughts. “Telfar being in the industry for 15 years is an inspiration for me only being one year in. I can’t imagine How big IEMBE is going to be by then, to be in the same statue as someone like him is an honor”, stated Terry.
The diverse brand wants to catch the eye of all types of people and countries. “Consistency is the key to building your black luxury brand”, Terry stated.
For more information about this brand be sure to check out their website.
Obi Does Production
The art of photography is something that Howard University student Obi is good at executing. His love and dedication for the art of photography show through countless captures. Shooting photos for New York Fashion Week, Tinashe, Jidenna, etc., the young student has no limitations to what he can do through the click.
Going to Howard University has been a blessing in disguise for Obi. “Attending my HBCU helped me build a network of supporters and regularly give me inspiration,” stated Obi. He thinks of photography as an expression of art. Starting his craft during the pandemic, the student began booking photoshoots and reaching out to people. His dedication and hard work have not gone unseen.
Just within a year, the young creator made a name for himself in the photography industry. Known around campus for being the kid who takes photos, his unique perspective is what people admire.
To hear more from Obi Does Productions you can check out this website.
Ab’s Ekstras
Abigail Hunter is an alumnus of Alabama State. She aspired to the creation of Luxurious hair scrunchies that cater to natural hair. Naming her big Afro named Maggie, Hunter started this brand during the pandemic due to Maggie not being able to fit within a regular scrunchie.
Seeing scrunchies all over social media platforms, In 2020 scrunchies became a popular trend during the pandemic. Abigail took it upon herself to attend Youtube University to learn how to sew. Being overwhelmed in the fabric store, the hunter still wanted to execute her vision.
The handmade luxurious scrunchies come in natural tones and also in HBCU school colors. This inclusive brand’s mission is to help black women to embrace their natural hair to the fullest.
Type 4″ Natural Hair MOST ASKED Q & A YouTube video and blog is up❗
— Abigail – Mindset + Lifestyle Blogger (@ab_k_) March 7, 2021
I took all the questions you had and compiled them into a video and blog.
Whether you’re a reader or like watching videos, I’ve got you covered.
Click the link in my bio to hear your questions answered. pic.twitter.com/f5RoMV5oRE
Being known as a natural hair influencer, Abigail shares information about self-care and natural hair. To learn more about Ab’s Ekstras visit their website.
