Support Black Designers by Shopping This Affordable Collection for Black History Month

As Glitter Magazine editors, we independently select and write about products we love. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which supports our staff.

Want to support Black designers for Black History Month but don’t want to pay Telfar prices? Then, this limited-edition collection by Black artists in collab with Forever 21 is a must.

Everyone celebrates Black History month differently, whether that means remembering famous Black historical figures, raising awareness of cultural issues, or supporting the community. There is no right way. Supporting the artistry of Black fashion designers might be a good choice for you because fashion is practical and accessible, and by wearing their art you can raise further visibility for these communities. These items from Forever 21’s second-ever Black History Month capsule collection are our favorites for affordable artistry.

A simple, usable basic that says it all. The Black Graphic Tote Bag designed by Shae Anthony doesn’t need much explanation. It says what it means, and its statement, just like its people, should be allowed to just be. That is enough. The bag is 100% cotton, 15 inches tall, and 13.5 inches wide, so that you could carry your daily essentials like a laptop easily within it. This one will fit into any lifestyle and is a great way to seamlessly integrate Blackness into space. It makes a great gift too, so get one for yourself or a friend for only $9.99.

It’s almost too cute. The Shine Brown Girl Tank Top designed by Shae Anthony has a very uplifting and empowering message. It says “shine brown girl” on its front in curly font that is charming and heartwarming. This positive message in the clean, simple modern aesthetic makes it a wonderful choice for everyday wear. The ribbed halter neck is modern, the crop youthful, and the neutral colors make it very chic. This top is made for bringing smiles to faces. Spread positivity and pick up this tank top for $19.99. Representation is a beautiful thing, so it also comes in plus sizes too.

Vibrant and versatile even down to the name. The Versatile Floral Print Scarf is a colorful addition that can fit in any closet. The warm and bright design has a unique retro vibe to elevate any outfit. Use it as a headscarf to protect or stylize the hair, or wear it as a bandana top for parties and warmer days. The large square dimensions of 27.5 inches by 27.5 inches mean that the only limit is your imagination. You can’t beat the great price at only $9.99 so don’t be afraid to stock up. And, if you like the print, it’s also featured on a long-sleeve mesh shirt as part of the same collection.

This one’s a keeper. The Fleece Hoodie designed by Henry R Jones II is simple yet impactful. The front of the hoodie is solid gray with a small signed quote over the right breast. It reads: “Be dedicated to something that has more faith in you than you do in yourself… you never know when your soul will need a spiritual recharge.” These powerful words by the designer speak to keeping strength and faith, a meaningful message no matter where you are in your life. The back of the hoodie also features a picture of a Black person with a Bantu knot hairstyle and other words underneath. Aside from its material quality, the quality of the artistic message leaves a personal impression that can affect many people differently, which art does. Regardless of what you believe, it’s a beautiful design that elevates the basic hoodie. Pick it up in general or plus sizes for $39.99. You can also pair it with the matching joggers in the picture.

If you don’t already have a bucket hat, allow this one to go to the top of your wish list. The Drawstring Bucket Hat designed by Henry R Jones II comes in a beautiful pale mustard color with frayed trimming, drawstring closure, and a message on a front patch. It reads: “Our Composition. Our Culture. Our Empowerment.” This message is one of power in the shared identity and makes for a good reminder for the wearer like a positive affirmation. Aside from the message, this cotton bucket hat is very useful as protection from the sun and as an accessory to enliven your outfits. Brighten up your days with this bucket hat for $17.99.

Just when you thought it couldn’t get better. This Black Graphic Pullover by Shae Anthony is a continuation of her collection with the ‘Black.” and “Shine Brown Girl” motifs. The front of the pullover clearly states “Black” in bold white lettering, and the right sleeve has embroidered in cursive lettering “Shine Brown Girl”. It’s the best of both worlds and incredibly comfortable with its looser design and 52% cotton composition. Pick up the graphic pullover in general or plus sizes starting at $29.99. It also has a pair of beautiful matching shorts with letter messages and plus sizes.

This top is as stunning as the glossy pages of a magazine. That’s because the Halter Top designed by Henry R Jones II features prints of pictures he took as part of his work in photography. The pale, overexposed color scheme gives off a peaceful and unified look. Natural imagery of black people and the phrases “Our Composition. Out Culture. Our Empowerment” and “Unblur Your Eyes…” make up the print. The overall aesthetic is subtle but strong. Its composition includes 50% linen, and the top has a beautiful and dainty diamond-shaped lace-up tie in the back. Being so simply elegant and feminine, how could you not feel special wearing it? Get it before spring begins in general or plus sizes starting at $25. To maximize the look, also pick up the matching wrap-tie skirt in general or plus sizes.

An everyday statement piece. The Graphic Hoodie designed by Shae Anthony celebrates the beauty of the natural Black hair texture known as “4C”. It does this by presenting a large graphic image of a black person with a big afro and the words “4C Queen” within the afro. This neutral hoodie also includes rainbow topstitching piping the seams, a front pouch pocket, and a “She x This” brand embroidery in cursive on the left arm wrist. Like the other hoodies, this one is a great addition to any closet, but the specific and aesthetically pleasing celebration of natural Black features is very important and impactful as an image. The increased visibility also increases positivity and acceptance. Help uplift others or yourself and pick up this hoodie in general or plus sizes for $34.99. For a head-to-toe look, pair them with the matching joggers, also available in general or plus sizes.

That concludes our list for the affordable Black History Month collection at Forever 21, but for more ways to celebrate the month of February check out our list of black-owned fashion houses.