

Black women have been at the forefront of both business and fashion since the beginning of time with effortless style, grace, culture, and beauty. Not only are we natural trendsetters, we are rarely given the proper recognition for our countless talents and skills, boxed into stereotypes until considered cool by the masses. Black women are also the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs, making up nearly half of women-owned businesses in the United States.
Even as we are suffering through a worldwide pandemic, Black business owners are working hard to stay afloat in this uncertain economy. As we become more aware of how we're spending our money during this time, let's begin to put even more effort into supporting Black businesses and widening our network of alternatives in all categories.
For both special occasions and everyday wear, jewelry can play an important role in the lives of women. With the power to uplift our spirits during our most memorable moments, most of us take pride in the pieces we own. No matter the circumstances, women find a way to wear their favorite jewelry, even in hardships. As the fashion industry has slowed, these Black woman-owned jewelry brands have continued to create one of a kind styles and eye-catching designs while showing no sign of slowing down.
By Kaylin
For all things cute, gold and dainty, according to the brand By Kaylin is a collection of pretty jewels to suit every mood. With a line up of gold plated hoop earrings, rings, and necklaces, this brand is perfect for everyday jewelry essentials. Each piece is designed with femininity in mind.
KRWND
KRWND (pronounced "crowned") specializes in custom jewelry, body jewelry and limited edition collections. With the belief that jewelry is a women's crown, this woman-owned company offers simple pieces that make a statement. KRWND also creates stackable rings and earrings, perfect for laying or wearing alone.
MIANIK ACCESSORIES
Describing themselves as ethnic, bold, and beautiful accessories fit for a queen, MIANIK wants the world to know all women are worthy and should embrace their inner royalty. MIANIK accessories was founded by sisters Olayinka and Nzinga Noel's love for fashion evolved into a mission to turn an everyday outfit into a show-stopping ensemble while understanding that what you wear is an extension of yourself.
J. ALXNDRA
As someone who lives for a bold statement, J. ALXNDRA is a brand specializing in going beyond limitations. Worn on celebrities such as Issa Rae, this brand is taking jewelry design to the next level. With a mission of creating "looks" and making the ordinary extra, this line is contemporary fashion jewelry made with quality materials born from a place of passion while intuitively executed.
LELIA + MAE
LELIA + MAE jewelry describes itself as a celebration of women. Black-owned and proud of it, this brand is an entire mood board for black girl joy. Originally founded out of pure adoration for women, especially Black women and Black culture, LELIE + MAE wanted to curate a space, along with jewelry that uplifts and inspires confidence in every woman as they go about their daily hustles. Check out their massive line of jewelry, guaranteed to make you fall in love.
HUMANS BEFORE HANDLES
Humans Before Handles offers statement jewelry under $50. According to the brand's mission, their jewelry was created for all those who wouldn't dare leave the house without the perfect statement earring, unafraid to express themselves through style with strong attention to details. With creative designs at an amazing price, Humans Before Handles is a great source for bold women everywhere.
JUNCTION
Where 'design meets art', JUNCTION is a brand crafting classic gold hoops and vintages style anklets and chain belts. With the perfect variety of simplistic designs, JUNCTION offers go-to everyday jewelry for women.
Goldiie Shop
Goldiie Shop
Handmade in the Netherlands, Goldiie Shop is a self-described vibe online with a Caribbean touch. With designs infused with vibrant colors and resin art, all earrings are unique in every way. Perfect to dress up and show out, Goldiie Shop is giving us majorly chic aesthetics.
Octave Jewelry
Organic geometry: Octave Jewelry is known for their interpretation of wearable sculpture in metal and stone. Born of Nigerian descent, Ope, the owner, named the company after a medical services business founded by her mother. Ope states, "My business is a testament to that legacy of strength and entrepreneurship," as written on a recent Instagram post sharing a bit about herself and the idea behind the brand.
Oma The Label
"At the corner of sexy and sweet" is what is seen at first glance when visiting this online jewelry shop. Oma The Label offers sweet and feminine designs for everyday wear for every age range. Simple yet incredibly chic, this brand is focused on quality and affordability for the everyday woman. Oma The Label was created by Neumi Anekhe, a New York-based fashion stylist, in 2018. Anekhe saw a need for more brands to include minorities. Her goal was to help diversify the industry by changing the imagery and predominant representation that we see in fashion today.
The Serendipitous Project
The Serendipitous Project is sustainable jewelry and accessories that celebrate the past, art, and nature made to order/vintage/upcycled. For the girls making the best out of life, this brand uses vibrant colors and eye-catching details to loudly define itself.
DIXIEGRAZE By Hanna
DIXIEGRAZE By Hanna is a jewelry brand offering high-quality gold plated pieces, handmade and exclusively designed since 2013. All pieces are affordable and created to uplift and inspire with engraved messages such as "QUEEN" and "PHENOMENAL WOMAN" amongst a range of customizable options. DIXIEGRAZE is best worn layered up for an effortless gold overload.
Epifene Jewelry
Designed for women by women, Epifene Jewelry offers a collection of statement pieces sure to make any woman feel like a queen. Created by two friends in 2018, Epifene was created out of a true bond of love, friendship, and a strong desire to create innovative jewelry.
Beads Byaree
Beads Byaree is a brand unafraid to make powerful statements through their innovative designs. Worn by celebrities such as Kelly Rowland, this collection of fashion jewelry is sure to turn heads. With vintage designs mixed with wire art and beautiful natural elements, these customizable pieces stretch beyond the everyday imagination.
Evermore Designs
Born out of a deep desire to release pent up creativity, Evermore Designs is here to make a statement. With a variety of bold vibrant colors and abstract shapes, these styles are perfect for a tropical vacation or brightening up your everyday activities. With a combination of color and creativity, make sure to make room for these special additions to your jewelry box.
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From '106 & Park' To Prime Time, Rocsi Diaz Is Still That Girl
Rocsi Diaz is no stranger to the camera. From her iconic run on 106 & Park to interviewing Hollywood heavyweights on Entertainment Tonight, she’s been at the center of culture for years. Now, she’s back in the hosting chair alongside none other than Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders for We Got Time Today, a fresh talk show exclusive to Tubi.
The show is exactly what you’d expect when you put a media pro and a sports legend together—a mix of real talk, unfiltered moments, and guest interviews that feel like family kickbacks. As the duo wraps up their first season, Rocsi sat down with xoNecole to talk about teaming up with Deion, the wildest moments on set, and why streaming platforms like Tubi are shaking up the talk show world.
Scoring the Gig & Clicking Instantly with Deion
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence
Deion Sanders had been dreaming of hosting a talk show, and when Tubi came calling, it was only right he made it happen. But before he found the perfect co-host, he held auditions with different women for the spot.
Lucky for us, Rocsi threw her hat in the ring, and the connection was instant. “You just can’t buy chemistry like we have,” she tells us. “We are legit like big brother, little sister—fighting, cracking jokes, telling each other off. When you watch the show, it’s like watching family.”
Mixing News, Culture & Sports—Minus the Snooze
With We Got Time Today, Rocsi and Deion cover everything from the latest headlines to celebrity tea and, of course, sports. But instead of stiff, rehearsed segments, the show keeps it loose and unpredictable.
“We’re not breaking the mold—it’s not rocket science,” Rocsi jokes. “We just bring our own flair, our authenticity, and our personalities to it. Deion has firsthand experience in sports, so when we talk about athletes, he brings a different perspective.”
And the best part? Unlike traditional talk shows that rush through quick interviews, We Got Time Today actually takes its time. “A lot of shows might give you one or two segments with a guest,” Rocsi says. “With us, we actually sit down and have real-life conversations.”
Her Top Guests (So Far!)
From music icons to relationship experts, the show has already had some unforgettable guests—but a few stand out for Rocsi.
“Ice Cube was our first guest, and he’s just legendary,” she says. “Kirk Franklin had us cracking up when he broke into a full choir freestyle for our Christmas special. And anytime we get Dr. Bryant on to put Deion in the hot seat? That’s my favorite!”
And of course, there’s Nick Cannon. “Nick was amazing,” she adds. “You already know he’s going to bring the energy and say something wild.”
Tag-Team Hosting with Deion: The Inside Scoop
While Deion Sanders is best known for his football greatness, Rocsi says he’s also one of the funniest people she’s ever worked with.
“He’s goofy—like, really goofy,” she laughs. “A lot of people didn’t know that side of him, but now they do. He can crack a joke, and if you’re too sensitive, good luck, because he will go in. But the best part? I throw it right back at him! Sometimes we just look at each other like, ‘Okay, that was a good one.’”
But beyond the laughs, she admires his insane work ethic. “Watching him juggle everything he does is just super admirable,” she says.
How "We Got Time Today" Brings That "106 & Park" Energy
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
For those wondering if We Got Time Today feels like 106 & Park 2.0, Rocsi says it’s a whole different vibe.
“The only comparison I’d make is that it’s a destination for the culture,” she explains. “It’s a platform where our people can come, feel safe, and have real conversations. But other than that, this is Deion’s world—we’re just having fun in it.”
The Talk Show Shake-Up: Why This Show Hits Different
Unlike traditional networks, We Got Time Today lives exclusively on Tubi, proving that streaming platforms are changing how we watch talk shows.
“Tubi is giving more people opportunities and making content more accessible,” Rocsi says. “Deion is a huge Tubi fan—he literally loves Black cinema—so it just made sense for him. And honestly? He’s got me watching it too!”
Real Ones Only: Women Holding Each Other Down
Rocsi credits her best friend, Chantelle, for always keeping her grounded. “She kept pouring into me, reminding me of who I am,” she shares. Even Deion Sanders makes sure to give her flowers, often calling her “the hostess with the most.”
In the industry, she’s built lasting bonds with women like Julissa Bermundez, Angie Martinez, and Angela Yee. “Julissa and I still kick it—her house is basically Sephora, so I just shop there,” she jokes. She also cherishes her friendships with Melyssa Ford and Robin Roberts, who have offered unwavering support. “Robin has always been there for me,” Rocsi says, reflecting on the wisdom she’s gained from the legendary journalist.
With the show’s first season wrapping up, Rocsi is grateful for the experience and excited for what’s next. “We’re having a good time, and the audience can feel that,” she says.
And if you haven’t tuned in yet? Well, Rocsi and Deion got time—so you might as well make some too.
Catch We Got Time Today now streaming on Tubi!
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Feature image by Leon Bennett/Getty Images
I Took A Three-Week Solo Trip To Portugal & Learned The Art Of Slow Traveling
As I write this, I'm sitting by the pool at the Octant Douro, a swanky hotel reminiscent of the Kanye West minimalist aesthetic. I promise I'm not saying this as a flex. I'm sharing this because I want this for you, too. Hello. #BlackGirlLuxury. This week marks the second of my three-week solo trip to Portugal.
If you're wondering: "Why Portugal?" You're not alone. Most people in my world have asked the same question. After my first trip here earlier this year, I fell in love. I only visited Lisbon then, but that was enough for me to feel affection for the country.
As my birthday approached, I wanted to plan another trip, and oddly, the prices for hotels and flights in the States were double and triple the price of even the best accommodations in Portugal. So, I booked a Premium Select ticket with Delta (which was also very reasonable) and started to plan. But on this trip, I wanted to do things differently. Not only did I want to explore additional cities, I wanted to try my hand at slow travel.
So instead of taking flights from city to city, I am traveling by train and car.
So, What is Slow Travel?
Like many things, the definition of slow travel is different for everyone. For me, slow travel means swapping out planes to travel by train, car, or any other means that requires me to slow down and has less impact on the environment.
How Am I Traveling?
My first stop was in Lisbon, where I stayed for a day before I started my journey to the north of Portugal. Before I landed, I weighed the cost of a car ride versus a train ride to Porto, which is just about a three-hour ride. The car service cost was nearly four times the cost of the train. So, I opted to take the high-speed tilting train: the Alfa Pendular. The train can travel up to 220 km/h (140 mph). I paid 51 euros for the three-hour journey.
A flight would have been just under an hour, but the environmental impact of that quick trip was at the top of my mind. Train travel is proven to emit much less carbon dioxide (CO2) than air travel. And with global warming, everything we do counts. Additionally, on my three-hour train ride, I realized there is so much you miss when flying over the cities. The scenery was gorgeous, and the ride was relaxing even when we were tilting. There was even a cafe car that offered sandwiches, coffee, and snacks.
After exploring Porto for four days, I visited wine country in the Douro Valley. I booked a car service for that trip which was just under 200 euros for the two-hour journey. What I didn't account for was the twisty, cliff-bending ride. It was beautiful but terrifying. But, like most places in Europe, the train is available, which I learned from a couple at Quinta Nova—a hotel nestled right in the middle of a UNESCO heritage site (an area legally protected by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and a vineyard—once I arrived.
Because I was too chicken to endure the cliffs when time to leave the mountainous terrain, I took the train from Ferrero to Penafiel, which only cost me 8 euros versus the 200 I'd spent on my trip there. Did the trip take double the time? Yep. But the ride was much less stressful and cheaper, and I got to travel like the locals. There was a little hiccup when I got to my stop. There were no Ubers. But luckily, there was a table of white-haired guys playing cards that happened to be taxi drivers.
This week, I'll take a six-hour train ride south to Algarve from Porto (a 30-minute car ride from where I am now), and then I'll take a car ride to Seville, Spain. It's a lengthy journey, but I'm still very excited about the experience.
If you're interested in traveling at a slower pace, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Give Up Scheduling Every Moment of Your Trip
I did tons of research before my trip, which set me up for success. But at the same time, things happen. For example, I missed my stop on the train and got lost. I also booked an Airbnb Experience way too far from my hotel, so I missed it. And it wasn't a cheap booking. So, unfortunately, money was wasted because I planned a little too far in advance without a full view of where things were. Sometimes you can only learn that as you travel.
2. Stay Present
Some travelers say to travel slowly, you must give up your technology. Well, that doesn't work for me because I'm still working even though I'm in Europe. But, I'm filming moments that I want to be able to reflect on, even though I'm not posting them. So, instead, I'm grabbing a little video and putting my phone down for the rest of the day.
3. Book Experiences that Support Local Makers and Artists
People always ask me how to get photos I love and plan tours as a solo traveler. Airbnb Experiences are my jam. I've used them since I planned my first solo trip to Cuba. Not only do you get a chance to make memories and learn new things, but you're supporting the local economy, which for me, is a big win.
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Featured image by Westend61/Getty Images
Originally published on September 6, 2022