10 Ways to Directly Support Black-Owned Businesses

United in Change

I’ve been grappling with how to address these complex times we find ourselves living in. I say complex because there will always be too many contributing variables for there ever to be an easy solution to fix what has been broken for so long.

I may not be white, but the lens available to me due to the demographics of my environment can give a false reading on the truth of what boils beneath the surface. A realization that has been made far more clear in our current climate.

That truth has now boiled over into the streets of our cities and neighborhoods in the form of important protests.  Unfortunately there was also a small minority of rioters who negatively affected some black-owned businesses, some who had already been devastated by the city-wide shutdowns. 

Sustained by Action

In the midst of this, my heartstrings were tugged towards supporting those black-owned businesses. Many who have also been disproportionately struggling to secure PPP loans. Specifically, small, independently owned boutiques such as this one - https://www.wilbournsistersdesigns.com/

The two owners, Janice and Carolyn Wilbourn have used their talents passed on by their mother, affectionately known as ‘Queen Mother Elizabeth’, to positively impact their community. Not just through clothing design but mentoring the next generation of those aspiring to find their passion in fashion.

I will continue to support this business and others like it through the remainder of 2020 by giving 10% of all sales during this time to aid them in recovering from their devastating losses. If you wish to assist this business or others like it, I have compiled a list to directly donate funds to help them rebuild their livelihood below. 

Other small black-owned boutiques affected by the riots that you can contribute to directly on GoFundMe.

• Guns and Roses Boutique (Dallas, TX)

• Dez Deme House of Styles (Chicago, IL)

• 89 and Pine (Columbus, OH)

• Attom Shop (Atlanta, GA)

• Pillars Fashion Club (Chicago, IL)

• Plagrnd Clothing Store (Greenbay, WI)

• Queen Hippie Gypsy (Oakland, CA)

• Shop Z Couture (Chicago, IL)

You can also help repair black-owned businesses with your John Hancock and not your wallet if you have been too deeply impacted during these times. This petition on Change.org will make it easier to identify black-owned businesses to support and create lasting change that this world desperately needs.

I know that this blog post alone won't create the kind of change you and I would like to see immediately but it's a start. A better future awaits us if we choose it. 

Top Jewelry Trends for Spring 2020

Trend Talk

While trends make us feel like we have fresh appeal, true style will always be timeless, as is the desire to adorn oneself.

Trends often speak to the social climate and like any art form it usually borrows heavily from the fabric of society. They subtly appeal to your emotions and quietly influence your tastes.

But first let’s understand how an object you wear can have such significance, both culturally and personally.

Let’s Get Personal

Jewelry was one of the first art forms dating back to the Paleolithic age. Its symbology communicated many of the same concepts that have remained consistent throughout human history.

Jewelry, in essence, is an extension of the body. Enabling you to express your highest aspirations. From provoking admiration, arousing desire to stating your status - jewelry becomes an important part of your own personal story. 

There is nothing more succinct that conveys your own narrative then how you present yourself to the world. What you wear, your sense of style all ties back to you on a deeply personal level.

So although it might be tempting to get swept up in the hottest trending items spotted on the runway, remember that there is nothing more timeless than you.

Modern Appeal to Timeless Classics

Aside from jewelry’s essential role in your life, sometimes the need to sparkle is more than enough reason to indulge in the latest bling. 

So, sparkle away with some of these notable trends. Just be sure to make them your own to keep your look classic and timeless.

Chokers -

This 90’s darling has made a notable comeback that continues to endure into current seasons with some striking upgrades to the basic satin ribbon.

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Full-body Jewelry

Length matters. The longer silhouette not only elongates your form but is universally flattering on almost every shape of body.

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Lariats -

These elegant low-hanging designs are giving the traditional statement necklace a run for its money. Reimagined to give earlier versions that were popular in the 90’s an updated and modern appeal.

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Statement Necklaces -

The perfect exclamation point to top a basic outfit or go big and boldly layer it with other pieces. Either way, you’re sure to make a resounding statement of your own.

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Hoops -

This time-honored style should be a staple in every woman’s jewelry wardrobe. It’s versaille to style and can be worn day or night.

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Mismatched Earrings -

This trend has social proof written all over it. According to Google, there’s been a remarkable spike in search queries for mismatched earrings. Up 700% from last year and climbing. If your OCD starts to kick in at the thought, maybe start with a coordinating pair featuring gems of different colors.

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