Black Owned: Diamond Leah

Black business owner Diamond, is one of the oldest tenants on the Pacific Avenue we know today. She’s always been on the “good” end of Downtown, 21st-15th St, it’s held the title as the bustling end of Downtown Pac Ave because of the foot traffic from the schools (SOTA & UWT) that has only increased as the University campus has grown exponentially along with food options for the crowd. Everyone is convinced this is the recipe for winning. 

Diamond Leah is black owned and started as a boutique (Satori) much like we did only she lasted far longer as a multi-brand store, 5+ years I believe. But don’t quote me on that. It could be a little more. Then she opened her sister store Little Sister who’s 2021 holiday season was one of the top ranked shops when Tacomans were asked where they did their shopping by Grit City Magazine. It wasn't long after the opening of Little Sister that Diamond revealed her eponymous line was underway and she was evolving the Satori space to house her new project Diamond Leah. Since the transition - I have become a huge fan. 

For me, Diamond Leah is thee black designer brand from Tacoma. Her first couple of seasons are top to bottom crafted, cut and sewn for Diamond Leah the brand and all DOMESTICALLY!! On top of that she mighty morphed her former space into a beautiful flagship that shocks every single person that is smart/curious/adventurous enough to stops in. Tacoma has a black owned high-end fashion brand on its hands. Nurturing her business through this transition and journey could lead to industry developments (seamstresses + cut n’ sew production) in Tacoma and our region. Diamond is doing the work. 

What she needs now are the eyes and ears - it’s not about buying up the whole store or any product to be honest. The growth Diamond needs for the eponymous line is attention. She needs the blessings that come from word of mouth testimony. She is providing a chance to change perceptions for Tacoma retail and design at large. It takes a village.