It’s that time of year everyone; the hussle and bussle of of shoppers wondering what to buy loved ones, co-workers, and friends for the holidays. Tired of the same old-same old gift offerings? Philly has loads of Black-owned shops, offering unique gift ideas and allowing you to support the people behind them.
-Ed.
VISITPHILLY.COM
Among Philly’s thriving small business scene is an array of Black-owned and -operated shops, boutiques and bookstores, from Manayunk to East Passyunk Avenue.
Shop sci-fi and comic books (Multiverse); learn the basics of woodworking (AR Workshop); and peruse history, health and fitness, and children’s books at one of the oldest Black-owned bookstores in the country (Hakim’s Bookstore).
Of course, this guide can only scratch the surface of the many great Black-owned shops and boutiques throughout Philadelphia. Read on for a curated list of just some of the city’s standout Black-owned shopping and business destinations.
BOOKSTORES
American Grammar
American Grammar is a versatile and welcoming space that encourages conversation, fosters community, and inspires creativity.
Whether studying, working or just looking to relax, guests can enjoy a hot coffee or tea while soaking in the atmosphere. The cozy vibe and modern decor evoke the feel of a vibrant upscale apartment, featuring paintings by local artists, a curated selection of books, limited apparel and ceramics.
Folks can also consider engaging with the local community through American Grammar’s special events, such as poetry readings and lectures.
Where: American Grammar, 2046 N. Front Street, Phila., PA
Atomic City Comics
Owned by Michael Yates and Darryl Jones, this classic comic book store, known for its wide selection of comics, graphic novels, manga, back issues, horror, sci-fi and old-school arcade games such as Street Fighter, has been a South Street mainstay since 2001.
The shop aims for inclusiveness, offering comics for kids and families, too. Keep your eyes peeled on their social media for updates on in-store author signings, new releases and other events.
Where: Atomic City Comics, 638 South Street, Philadelphia, PA
Black and Nobel
More than a bookstore, this cultural center owned by Hakim Hopkins offers DVDs and an array of health and wellness products — like lotions and sea moss, which is touted for its supposed health-fueling properties — in a creative atmosphere.
Peruse the books for children and adults lined along the shop’s walls and take a peek at some of the art and body products. The shop also ships to prisons, offering incarcerated folks reading materials.
Where: Black and Nobel, 422 South Street, Philadelphia, PA
The Black Reserve Bookstore
Branded as not just a bookstore, but an experience, this Lansdale shop has been supplying Black culture since 2017.
Among its literary offerings are novels, fantasy books, reference books, books on Black history and culture, young adult books and teen literature. The shop has a sitting area if you want to take a load off and dig into one of your recent finds. Aside from books, The Black Reserve Bookstore stocks jewelry, stationery and records.
Where: The Black Reserve Bookstore, 319 W. Main Street, Lansdale, PA
Hakim’s Bookstore & Gift Shop
One of the country’s oldest Black-owned bookstores — now an official historic site — resides at the same West Philly address where Dawud Hakim founded it more than 60 years ago. Historic, welcoming, old-school and family-friendly, the shop now belongs to Hakim’s daughter, Yvonne Blake.
Hakim’s Bookstore has a rich tradition of stocking rare books you can’t find elsewhere, and continues that tradition with books on African American studies, philosophy, history, memoirs and children’s books. They also ship books to prisons to support incarcerated readers.
Where: Hakim’s Bookstore & Gift Shop, 210 S. 52nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books
Owner Marc Lamont Hill’s Germantown hangout exudes community pride in its book selection and living-room vibe, a la Washington DC’s acclaimed Busboys and Poets chain. This bibliophile’s spot takes its name from the columnist and Temple University prof’s favorite uncle, who nurtured his love of reading.
Since its opening in 2017, the bookstore has provided underserved communities with books and a place to connect with others. On the shelves, you’ll find new releases, books from local authors, YA and kids, historical, nonfiction and so much more.
Where: Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books, 5445 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
BOUTIQUES & RETAIL SHOPS
Jonesys Accessories
Don’t let the name fool you: Jonesys Accessories has everything a woman needs to upgrade her wardrobe, from apparel to accessories.
Located in two of Philadelphia’s most stylish areas, Center City and Chestnut Hill, the chic boutique carries bold dresses, tops, shoes, jewelry and more in a rainbow of colors and patterns.
With over 20 years of experience helping customers express themselves using fashion, owner Stephanie Jones and her team take pride in providing exceptional customer service alongside high-quality products.
Where: Jonesys Accessories, 7916 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Kylie Rose Fashion
A self-taught seamstress with only a $30 sewing machine and big dreams, Shaelia Dawkins has created a fashion institution.
Covering both ends of the style spectrum, Kylie Rose Fashion carries attire for red carpets and lazy weekends alike, including high-end formal and prom dresses, as well as streetwear (like tracksuits, T-shirts, and hoodies) for men and women.
For those who want to make a statement for a special event, you can get your own custom-made Kylie Rose dress.
Where: Kylie Rose Fashion, 506 Main Street, Darby, PA
Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift
After operating as a mobile boutique, Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift opened a brick and mortar in Brewerytown. (You can’t miss its neon yellow facade.)
Founded by Tia Whitfield — who loves to chat with customers and will recommend pieces for you to try on — the shop stocks both women’s and men’s fashions, from blazers and dresses to denim and T-shirts.
Where: Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift, 2804 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
TC Unlimited Boutique
TC Unlimited Boutique has your back for all of your designer-inspired needs on a budget. Hop in on all the latest trends (think: cargo pants, fringe and puff sleeves) at this Chestnut Hill women’s clothing shop, which first began as an online store in 2005.
Founded by Keia Chesson, TC Unlimited Boutique adds new inventory weekly, with inclusive sizing to fit all body types. From sweat sets to stylish dresses, Chesson offers pieces for all dress codes.
Where: TC Unlimited Boutique, 8518 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
ACCESSORIES
Blue Sole Shoes
Owner Steve Jamison, a fashion footwear specialist, established his sunny Rittenhouse Square boutique in 2007 to cater to high-end tastes in men’s shoes, socks and accessories — and to provide high-quality customer service.
Just a few years later, Jamison was named “Best Italian Foreign Buyer” by a Milan footwear organization — which means there are tons of Italian shoes in store. You’ll find boots, lace-ups, sneakers, oxfords and more. Among the designers in stock: Harris, Magnanni, John Galliano and Les Hommes.
Where: Blue Sole Shoes, 1805 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Style by Blain
With a showroom featuring a pool table, elegant wooden side tables and a beautiful fireplace to display his singular selection of shoes, owner Voltaire Blain — known as the best-dressed man in Chestnut Hill — strives to make shopping for shoes an experience like no other.
His shop carries a wide selection of hard-to-find shoes, including loafers, oxfords, and both high- and low-cut boots for men, as well as several styles for women. If you’re looking for even more personalized service, private appointments are available.
Where: Style by Blain, 8433 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Lifestyle
Amazulu Collections
For more than 35 years, this Reading Terminal Market stall has served as a location for silversmith Charita Powell to showcase her handmade jewelry. Now, she stocks designs from metalsmiths the world over.
Powell hand-curates the selection of necklaces, bracelets, rings and other jewelry at Amazulu, where she also sells lamps, dolls, sculptures and cultural clothing, including Powell’s vibrant pieces from her Urban Karma Wear line.
Where: Amazulu Collections, Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Kellijane
Kelly Monk’s South Philly home decor shop is designed to feel like a sanctuary, and her rich fabrics and textiles can transform any home to feel the same way.
Monk comes from a long line of women in her family who taught her that each room holds a purpose — and creativity has a home there.
A new bedding line (the product of 20 years of research), cozy blankets, colorful throw pillows and luxe table fabrics are among the offerings. Either make an appointment or stop by if you’re in the neighborhood.
Where: Kellijane, 1415 S. Broad Street #1, Philadelphia, PA
Little Marrakesh Bazaar
Showcasing the goods of owner Chakir Bouchaib’s home country, Little Marrakesh Bazaar is Reading Terminal Market’s destination for Moroccan handcrafted gifts. Bouchaib often travels to Morocco to source the highly detailed goods directly from the artisans themselves.
In his booth, find intricately designed home goods (like mirrors, ornate tea glasses and spice jars), leather bags and turquoise jewelry.
Where: Little Marrakesh Bazaar, Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
South Street Art Mart
Keeping the punk spirit of South Street alive is South Street Art Mart, a shop curated by co-owners Nicole Krecicki and Nicole Wiegand. The Art Mart carries works of art, jewelry, zines, pins and so much more from over 180 Philly-area artists and makers.
Regardless of the time of year, if you’re looking for a singular present, you’re sure to find it here.
Where: South Street Art Mart, 530 S. 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Spas, Beauty & Wellness
Dope Botanicals
Sisters (and Philly natives) Nakia and Taahirah Stith are the owners of this Rittenhouse Square apothecary — or “a‘plant’ecary,” as they call it — that sells plant-based remedies in the form of herbs, smoothies, tonics, teas and tinctures.
Their goal? To offer up herbs of the liquid, powder or cut variety that relieve customers of what’s bothering them in a judgment-free zone.
They were rewarded for their efforts with a 2022 Best of Philly award for best apothecary by Philadelphia magazine.
Where: Dope Botanicals, 257 S. 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA
The Naked Peach Waxing Boutique
With three locations in Philadelphia — South Street West, Roxborough and Queen Village — this full-service waxing studio owned by Sarah Joy Mobley is a convenient option for those interested in quick and painless body and facial waxing (using their own formula of wax) as well as lash-brow tints, lash perm-lifts and threading.
If guests are really feeling bold, they can try a facial for their bikini area, complete with cleansing and toning, microdermabrasion, a targeted peel and an intensive jelly mask.
Where: The Naked Peach Waxing Boutique, 708 S. 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA
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