My hope is the person reading this has gotten swept away in the power of this movement as I have. While immersive education is the most critical step to be taking right now, we must start mapping the actions we’ll be making a part of our lifestyle once this news cycle expires.
While I’m still educating myself on the many layers of Black oppression, how to become actively anti-racist, and reflecting on how to bring it best into this brand, I do know I’ll be diversifying the places I shop in both the UK and Europe, as well as reflecting those purchases on this space.
I understand the overwhelming amount of brands we’ve long ignored, but my advice: take it slow. We should take time to emotionally identify the Black-owned brands which truly connect with us, our art of living and our characters, those brands we can sustainably make a part of our lifestyle for the big picture. These brands are quite aligned with my quintessentially English taste and flirtation with European glamour. While my purchases are en route, I will start by sharing businesses which I’ve already placed an order or will be eyeing for future purchases.
MADAME DE LA MAISON // Location: Paris // Instagram: @madamedelamaison
I’ve been actively hunting for antiques for the home and props for food content for some time, and it took a movement like this for me to find exactly what I’ve been searching for. Madame de la Maison’s shop (based in France) is BRIMMING with exquisite antiques, dinnerware, cutlery and linens, most of which hunted down in the french countryside. I bought this gorgeous antique cream floral teapot, a treasure discovered somewhere in Paris…
SIKA DESIGNS // Location: UK // Instagram: @sikadesigns
I’m a sucker for cotton dresses and fine tailoring. The timeless silhouettes of Sika Designs immediately caught my eye when I saw the brand being shared everywhere on Instagram these past days. One hop into the SIKA online shop was all it took to discover the most dreamy blue-and-white frock for our upcoming time in Italy (and perhaps even on our Cornwall trip). The design is unlike any other blue-and-white frock I’ve owned before. and goodness knows I’ve had my fair share.
LUXEMORE LONDON // Location: London // Instagram: @luxemorelondon
The older and more educated we grow on clean beauty, the more apparent it becomes that nature is where the power is. Luxemore London products are built on that power. I’m particularly interested in their line of face oils (jojoba, avocado, grapeseed, argan, etc.), so I’ll slowly be working my way through trying these. But my first purchase will be the Black Walnut shampoo and conditioner set once back in stock (deep conditioning is essential for summer days):
AMI SKINCARE // Location: London // Instagram: @amilondonoffficial
(Yes, the name attracted me to this). One habit I need to work on is religiously moisturising my whole body post-shower and with products which are clean, rather than hastily grabbed at Boots. I do think shea butter is the summit of moisture, as as far as clean products go. I just bought the Whipped Shea Butter from AMI Lifestyle, based right here in London. The brand is built on ethical, non-toxic, sustainable mantras and ingredients.
SINCERELY NUDE // Location: London // Instagram: @sincerelynude
I’ve been on a mission lately to add more bodysuits to my wardrobe. They are flattering for the silhouette, especially when pairing with straight-leg jeans or a voluminous vintage midi-skirt. These combinations are also optimal for jet-setter days during summer, and make for a lightweight suitcase, and also just something to feel sensual in (bodysuits have so many “ands”). I’m eyeing this lovely lace number from Sincerely Nude, a London-based brand.
NAKED CLAY CERAMICS // Location: Bedfordshire, UK // Instagram: @nakedclayceramics
Daniel and I are always on the hunt for unique mugs to add to our coffee and tea collection. I adore the simplicity of Naked Clay Ceramics, and these are locally designed and handmade in Bedfordshire by the brilliant Carla Sealey. I’m in love with the porcelain sets, inspired by natural colours and textures of the earth. I feel like once I actually hold these pieces in my hands, peace will come with it.
DIANE HILL // Location: London // Instagram: @dianehilldesign
The brilliant and talented Diane Hill is a London-based artist specialising in paintings, prints and chinoiserie designs. When I first saw her work, it was an immediate connection, many of her designs reminding me of our short time in Charleston, surrounded by estuaries and egrets. I ordered one of her gorgeous iPhone cases (as I simply want to marvel at it all day).
I will continue to add to this list as I discover more Black-owned businesses and brands in the Britain and Europe that I love. Please email me at kortney@kortneygruenwald.com if you have any suggestions xx
