Being able to spend money rather frivolously (something I've been known to do a lot) is definitely a privilege. And it's one that I've been a lot more conscious of over the past few months and weeks. In fact, I think many of us are becoming infinitely more aware of how and where we spend money now. Yes, we want things that will make our homes feel welcoming and less confining. But we also generally want our money to support movements, brands, and people we believe in.
And since so much of my money goes toward buying things that can enhance my home life, I've been on the lookout for ways to shop more intentionally and for products from talented Black and POC makers. So many awesome items are currently saved on my fave lists and Pinterest boards. But here's a roundup of all the things that actually made it into my cart that are more than worth the money.
Video of the Day
Video of the Day
Written by Vanessa Vernon and Morgan Ashley and designed by Wendy Pruitt, the Brown Bohemians coffee table book is an aesthetic dream. It's big enough to really make an impact on a shelfie or a nightstand, the earthy tones can match nearly any decor, and the photography is stunning. But I especially love this buy because it tells the beautiful stories of BIPOC creators and demonstrates how important artists are because of their ability to inspire.
I got another coffee table book because I just can't make myself stop buying them. And even though this one doesn't really match my color scheme (the blue cover is very blue, startlingly blue, actually), the pictures inside are so worth it. Actor, journalist, TV host, and author Marcellas Reynolds is responsible for Supreme Models: Iconic Black Women Who Revolutionized Fashion. And inside the book, you'll find exactly what the title suggests — Black women who totally changed the fashion game. I loved this one so much that I bought two extras to give as housewarmings gifts.
I have been collecting (possibly hoarding) face sculptures for a while now, so when I saw this mini one from Effortless Composition (a Black-woman-owned, California-based company that sells beautiful pieces from real artisans and supports inner-city communities in Los Angeles) I knew I absolutely had to have it. A lot of busts and ceramics pieces like this can have really high price tags, but at $46, this one seems quite reasonable. It's currently out of stock but will hopefully be back online soon.
This print from Aaron Ricket was actually for my boyfriend's gallery wall, not mine. But I gently helped him realize that his studio would look horribly incomplete if he didn't buy it. The design has the perfect balance of color and simplicity. But we were both especially drawn to the artist's project, The35Percent, which raises money for freelancers who've been negatively affected by COVID-19.
This Mielle shampoo isn't a home decor item (and if I'm being truthful, I decanted it into an amber glass bottle to make it look a tiny bit prettier), but it's definitely one of my favorite purchases. It's sulfate-free, it smells great, it's non-drying, and it actually makes me look forward to washday just a little which I think qualifies as making my home life better.
Full disclosure: This quilt set from Justina Blakeney and the Jungalow is currently sold out. But. I. Need. It. And as soon as it's restocked, I will be purchasing with a quickness. Many of the Jungalow pieces are bold and vibrant, and the colors can really feel alive. But this Hamsa set is muted and simple (and stone-washed so it's probably as soft as butter). It reminds me of lazy summer afternoons, and I know it'll be great for all the Netflix-bingeing I do in bed.
Here's another purchase that isn't technically home decor, but honestly wine is close enough in my opinion. I think this bundle from the McBride Sisters Collection will look so cute on my bar cart (still waiting on the shipment to arrive). And since I may or may not be treating myself to a few more drinks lately (all in the name of feeling cozy at home), this is definitely a useful and intentional buy. I got mine directly from the company website, but Wine.com carries the brand, too.