HOW WE STARTED

Author Mahmood Mbaye  |  Photography Aaliyah Blakely

BLCKNMSLM was born from a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Black Muslims especially in the Western world. Often standing at the intersection of racism and Islamophobia, Black Muslims often find themselves underrepresented, misunderstood, or marginalized. This brand is more than just clothing—it’s a symbol of identity, empowerment, and belonging.

The idea was sparked by a university group of Black Muslim from diverse backgrounds—Kenya, America, Zimbabwe, Egypt, the UK, Nigeria, Ghana, and beyond. In this space, students shared their challenges, triumphs, and ways to uplift one another. We found community in the Black and Muslim groups we joined, spaces where we could share our stories, struggles, and successes. But we knew that beyond these rooms, beyond our city, our people deserved to be seen, heard, and represented on a global stage.

That’s why we started BLCKNMSLM—not just as a clothing brand, but as a movement. A movement to empower Black Muslims everywhere, to remind us that we belong, and to celebrate our stories through fashion, culture, and connection.

Why BLCKNMSLM?

 Because we will no longer be invisible.
Because we refuse to be a footnote in history.
Because our children deserve to see themselves represented.

From Malcolm X to Muhammad Ali, from Ilhan Omar to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Black Muslims have shaped history. But beyond the famous names, there are millions of us—living, thriving, creating, and resisting every single day.

We believe in fashion as a statement. What we wear tells a story—about where we come from, what we stand for, and where we’re going. Whether it's a hoodie, a tee, or a pair of sweatpants, BLCKNMSLM is designed for all levels of ‘Eeman’, so that every Black Muslim, no matter their journey, can wear it with pride.

Who We Serve:

  • Black Muslims around the world.
  • Men & women who want stylish, high-quality, and modest fashion.
  • Individuals who take pride in both their Black and Muslim identity and want a brand that reflects their values.
  • Muslims at all levels of eeman—from those who wear hijab/jilbab to those who are still exploring modest wear.
  • Black Muslims who feel underrepresented in both mainstream and Islamic fashion brands.

  • Those who want to belong to a global Black Muslim movement, not just a clothing brand.

When you wear BLCKNMSLM, you’re not just wearing clothes. You’re wearing history. You’re wearing resistance. You’re wearing community.

We are not just building a brand. We are building one of the strongest Black Muslim communities the world has ever seen.

We’re here to tell our own stories—not for the gaze of others, but for us. For our future. For our Ummah.

- Yusuf