If you haven’t marked your calendar yet, it’s officially homecoming season for historically Black colleges and universities. If you’re like me, you’ll be flying to your alma mater for a weekend filled with on-campus events, day parties, and more. One of the most exciting things about these celebrations for me is the outfits my friends and I put together. As a Florida A&M University alum, the countdown to heading back to Tallahassee begins in January (yes, we book our hotels that early). From January through the chillier months, I’m usually bracing myself to see which Black-owned brands everyone is supporting. I also really enjoy purchasing merch on Wahnish Way, which is basically on campus at FAMU.
Whether you’re preparing to head to a memorable homecoming at Howard University, Texas Southern University, Prairie View A&M, or Spelman, I’ve handpicked some pieces that’ll make your online shopping easier. Below, you’ll find a list of Black-owned brands and personal favorites that have caught my eyes over the years: Louisa Ballou, the Brooklyn-based company Madamette, Krystal Phillips’ Kaphill and more.
Keep scrolling to see what you can pick up and where to wear it on campus before you pack your carry-on for your HBCU’s homecoming festivities.
1. Convocation: Colorful Coat + Trousers
Some historically Black colleges and universities, like FAMU, have a dressy event on campus on the Friday ahead of game day with a keynote speaker. Something that would be appropriate to wear to this event would be a chic jacket paired with slim-fitting trousers.
2. Day Party: A T-Shirt Dress + Unique Boots
Day parties are all about showing up and showing out, especially if you’re visiting from out of town. An elevated T-shirt dress is something you can dress up or down, and it will pair well with knee-high boots or dramatic heels.
3. Tailgate/The Football Game: Jersey + Denim Shorts
Game day is when you should channel your inner Sporty Spice: think jerseys, extra large sports tees, trendy sneakers, and colorful accessories. For a unique touch consider deviating from your school’s colors for the football game.
4. Clubbing or Bar-Hopping: Minidress + Heels
For the club or bar-hopping, opt for a patterned jersey dress paired with heels that have a bit of a platform for added comfort.
5. Farewell Brunch: Silk Top + Low Rise Pants
For some, being at homecoming is the one time a year that you get to see all your close friends. Brunching with everyone calls for a fun top, denim bottoms and laid back sneakers to top off your outfit.
Having worked at Ann Taylor years back, I can vouch for the affordability and fit of their trousers, suitable for women of all shapes and sizes. The Lana Slim Pant is worth picking up.
Available at Ann Taylor
Add a pop of color with these light pink sandals. Plus, Stuart Weitzman is a red carpet staple for celebrities.
Available at Stuart Weitzman
These are the perfect boots for walking around a packed party, what I love about them is the disheveled look combined with their countless straps and silver detailing.
Available at Steve Madden
These unique heels from A.W.A.K.E. MODE are back in stock, do not sleep on them. I have a similar pair and they’re pretty comfortable for both day and night outings.
Available at https://www.shopbop.com/product/vp/v=1/1509922921.htm
I love the idea of mixing an outlandish top with a calm bottom. This silk button-up from Bruce Glen is quirky, so it fits the bill.
Available at Bruce Glen
Re/done jeans getting marked down this low is insane. Pick these up, I promise you won’t regret it.
Available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Pulling the trigger on some Veja sneakers years ago was an instant come-up. These sneakers are ultra comfy and go with everything.
Available at Sneakersnstuff