On March 8th, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a day that we celebrate the political, social, economic, and cultural achievements of women. In a world where men are constantly celebrated for their achievements, it’s incredibly important to honor and celebrate the contributions women have made in our society. In honor of this incredibly special day, I wanted to share with you some of my favorite women-led, women-owned, and women-backed beauty, wellness, and lifestyle brands. Keep reading for more!
Epara Skincare
As someone who openly loves using luxury skincare, I cannot tell you how many times I’ve thought about the lack of luxury skincare brands owned by and for Black women. Thankfully, Epara Skincare has stepped up to the plate. The brand was founded by Ozohu Adoh in 2017 and focuses on using African botanical ingredients to craft luxurious skincare products for women of color, or specifically, Black women. Each item in the collection is designed to treat skincare problems typically found in women of color like hyperpigmentation and dryness.
Fenty Beauty
If we can credit one brand for changing the makeup game for the better, it’s Fenty Beauty. Founded by the extraordinary pop star Rihanna, the brand focuses on providing a very inclusive makeup and skincare experience. While other brands certainly had 40+ foundations (M.A.C and NARS come to mind), it was the first time this fact was put at the forefront of the branding experience. For the first time, women of all shades could see themselves represented at the makeup counter, and soon, other brands had to follow suit.
Petite Studio
For a 34-year-old woman like me who barely tops 5-feet tall, Petite Studio, founded by Jenny Wang, is a godsend. Expect chic and sophisticated coats and jackets tailored for smaller frames, skirts that are actually ankle length (a huge deal), and feminine sweaters and shirts. I struggle to find workwear and sophisticated clothes for my size, and Petite Studio is like a breath of fresh air.
Sweaty Betty
As someone whose entire wardrobe consists of leggings and sweatshirts, I’m always on the hunt for the best leggings out there. Enter Sweaty Betty, a U.K.-based athleisure brand co-founded by Tamara Hill-Norton. The design team is made up of all women, so they definitely understand how to construct leggings that are flattering, won’t bunch up or fall down, and come in lots of gorgeous colors and designs.
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Golde
Self-care for me isn’t only about long, luxurious showers and slathering myself in expensive skincare (although that is definitely a major part of it, let’s be clear!), but also about nourishing my body from the inside out. And that’s where Golde comes in. Golde, founded by Trinity Mouzon in 2016, specializes in superfood latte blends that you can add to your favorite hot and cold drinks when you need a super dose of nutrients. Some ingredients include anti-inflammatory turmeric, matcha, coconut, and cacao. I love to add a scoop of the Cacao Turmeric to some warmed oat milk for a yummy AM pick-me-up.
The Honey Pot Company
I am not old, but I have to say that feminine care and hygiene products have come an incredibly long way from my teenage years. The Honey Pot Company, the brainchild of Georgia native Bea Dixon, uses the power of herbs and botanicals to refresh and heal your delicate areas. I am particularly in love with the Sensitive Foaming Wash and the 100% organic tampons.
What are your favorite women-owned beauty and lifestyle brands? Leave them down in the comments below!