Seeking 'Tribal Truths' Through Fashion

Brenda Brunson-Bey runs a clothing store that doesn’t just cater to familiar trends; rather, the clothes at Tribal Truths Collection exalt African culture while staying stylish.

Brunson Bey’s boutique, located at S. Oxford Street just off of Fulton Street, is a tribute to African culture and pride with urbanized versions of traditional women’s gear: coats, jackets, hats t-shirts, full-length wrap skirts, belts, and leather bags, all basked in bold colors.

“I showcase the fabrics, findings and designs that represent the Diaspora arts of Africa and America of which we are all a part,” said Brunson-Bey, who began toying with the idea of starting her own fashion line while working as a buyer for Abraham & Strauss (A&S).

One look at Brunson-Bey and it’s no surprise that she had the creative instincts to create her own line — she had already been designing her African-rooted clothes before she opened her store in 2004.

The final inspiration came when a longtime acquaintance requested an order for a cape she wore — Brunson-Bey knew it was time to develop her own brand.

She would go on to sell her work at local craft fairs, which would lead to a consignment deal with 4W Circle of Art and Enterprises, a renowned Fulton Street arts collective that provided marketing opportunities for resident entrepreneurs. After a little over a decade of success with 4W, Brunson-Bey opened her Tribal Truths.

Today, in addition to running her store, Brunson-Bey keeps herself busy co-producing Fort Greene’s Kwanza Festival and Juneteenth celebrations, while also, she says, nurturing the neighborhood’s creative wealth.

“I am constantly awed and inspired by the way black folks of all ages make fashion their own,” said Brunson-Bey. “I see a sense of pride and significance of the garments they wear. And I try to create a sense of history, because I want them to feel beautiful and relevant in the clothing as an extension of their personalities.”