National Lipstick Day is a tribute to the artistry, innovation, and cultural significance of cosmetics in our lives. Today, we spotlight three iconic brands—Fashion Fair, The Lip Bar, and Fenty Beauty—that have not only redefined beauty standards but also honored the rich history and artistry of Black beauty.

Fashion Fair: A Legacy Reimagined

Fashion Fair is a name synonymous with Black beauty. Established in 1973 by the visionary Eunice W. Johnson, the brand was born out of the desire to create makeup that celebrated the diverse beauty of Black women. For decades, Fashion Fair was a pioneer in offering an extensive range of shades and tones, making it a staple in many households.

Recently, Fashion Fair underwent a significant revamp, capturing the journey in a compelling HBO Max documentary. The documentary chronicles the brand’s revival and commitment to staying true to its roots while embracing modern beauty trends. The new Fashion Fair collection features vibrant, long-lasting lipsticks that celebrate the richness of Black skin tones.

The Lip Bar: From Rejection to Resilience

The Lip Bar‘s journey is a story of perseverance and the power of staying true to one’s vision. Founded by Melissa Butler, The Lip Bar emerged as a disruptor in the beauty industry. Butler, a former Wall Street analyst, famously faced rejection on the hit show Shark Tank, with investors doubting the brand’s potential. However, Butler’s belief in creating inclusive, vegan, and cruelty-free beauty products for all skin tones never wavered.

Today, The Lip Bar is a thriving brand, offering a wide array of lipsticks that cater to diverse complexions. The brand’s bold colors and innovative formulas have made it a favorite among makeup enthusiasts. The Lip Bar’s success story is a reminder that rejection can be a stepping stone to greatness, and that Black-owned beauty brands are an essential part of the industry’s landscape.

Fenty Beauty: Redefining Global Beauty Standards

When Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty in 2017, the beauty industry was forever changed. Fenty Beauty set a new standard for inclusivity, with its groundbreaking “Fenty Effect” challenging other brands to expand their shade ranges. With a mission to cater to all skin tones, Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Foundation offered an unprecedented 40 shades at launch, a number that has since expanded.

Fenty Beauty’s lipsticks, particularly the iconic Stunna Lip Paint, have become symbols of bold self-expression. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its products, with campaigns featuring diverse models and makeup artists. Fenty Beauty has not only made makeup more accessible for women of color but has also redefined what it means to be beautiful in a global context.

On this National Lipstick Day, we celebrate the artistry, resilience, and innovation of Black-owned beauty brands like Fashion Fair, The Lip Bar, and Fenty Beauty. These brands have not only filled a gap in the market but have also empowered countless Black women to express themselves confidently and unapologetically. As we swipe on our favorite shades today, let’s remember the rich history and cultural significance behind each tube of lipstick.

Let’s continue to support and uplift Black-owned beauty brands, not just today, but every day. Happy National Lipstick Day!