Melanista is a unique online store dedicated to embodying and celebrating Black women through fashion.Our standout product is a collection of personalized leather handbags finely crafted to represent the strong and beautiful black women. Each handbag is a fusion of quality, luxury, culture, and pride; woven into an iconic accessory that symbolizes the resilient spirit of Black women. With Melanista, every black woman gets to wear their heritage proudly and stylishly.
Melanista (melanista.com) has 281 customer reviews on Five Star Index, with an average rating of 3.4 out of 5.
Also known as
melanista.com
Website
melanista.com
Category
Accessories
Location
Montebello, New York
Listed on Five Star Index
2026
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The company replied to 100% of reviews.
Latest
Most recent review: May 2025.
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I came across this website and decided to take a look around since my sister's birthday was approaching and she loves purses. She gets everyone something purse-related on holidays. Once I saw the Rise and Slay purse, I knew it was perfect for her (and of course I needed one). I just gave it to her yesterday and She Loved It! She suggested we get all of the women in our family together. The Personalization took her over the top. I can't wait to share with her that there is a matching wallet. :)
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Kimberly,
Thank you for sharing such a lovely story!
We’re so glad to hear that the Rise and Slay purse was the perfect gift for your sister’s birthday! 🎉 It’s wonderful that she loved it and even wants to gather the women in your family.
Personalization truly adds a special touch! We can’t wait for you to explore the matching wallet together.
If you need any assistance or have questions, feel free to reach out. Enjoy celebrating with your sister! 💖
SR
STEPHANIE R.
From the day I received my notification… it has been an awful experience.
From the day I received my notification that my bag was going to be delivered problems arose, unfortunately, it did not show up, so I wrote three days after the delivery date and was told to look around the neighborhood or ask the post office, I replied to the company, that the said date of delivery was a Sunday and nothing had been found or seen, they quickly wrote back and said they would investigate. 24-48 hours later I received notification that my package was in route, finally my wallet showed up (zipper damaged) and 24 hours later the bag showed up. This has been an awful experience for the price of this bag and the fact it has damage, I was told to send a video of the zippered part or apply moisturizing cream to it, this does not sit well with me but you live and you learn.
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Stephanie,
Thank you for sharing your experience, and I’m truly sorry to hear about the issues you faced with your order.
We strive to provide a seamless experience, and it's disappointing to learn that we fell short this time. Your feedback is invaluable, and I want to ensure we address your concerns about the damaged wallet properly.
Please check your email for support options, and we’ll do our best to make this right. Thank you for your patience!
GR
Gloria Rene H.
It is one of the most beautiful things…
It is one of the most beautiful things I have ever bought I knew that it was nice when I saw someone with it but I still couldn’t believe just how magnificent it is thank you for caring enough about me and black women like me to make this
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Gloria,
Thank you so much for your beautiful words!
We’re incredibly touched to hear how much you love your purchase. It means the world to us to create products that resonate with and celebrate Black women.
Your support inspires us to keep crafting meaningful items. If you need anything else, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you for being a part of our community! 💖
RY
Rita Y.
Beautiful Bags
This is my 3rd purchase from this company. I am very impressed by the quality of the bags, the detail, and the ability to personalize. The cost is also a plus. I would recommend this company for the fact that it is Black Owned and the quality of the products that are sold. Will be making more purchases for family and friends throughout the year!!
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Rita,
Thank you so much for your continued support!
We’re thrilled to hear that you’re impressed with the quality and detail of our bags, as well as the personalization options.
Your recommendation means a lot to us, especially as a Black-owned business.
We can’t wait to serve you and your family and friends in the future! If you need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Thank you again! 💖
JK
Jamia K D.
I love my new bag and wallet
I love my new bag and wallet, it’s so cute and I can’t wait to wear it tomorrow.
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Jamia,
We’re so thrilled to hear that you love your new bag and wallet! 🎉
They sound adorable, and we can’t wait for you to show them off. If you have any questions or need anything else, feel free to reach out.
Enjoy wearing them tomorrow! 💖
KE
Kee
I like that this company is transparent…
I like that this company is transparent about shipping time and very hands on. I’ve received updates via email several times and I was pleasantly surprised to receive part of one of my orders sooner than expected. My bag is beautifully crafted and I hope to have many more. Thank you for the care and time spent to make this an experience for me. I’ve received multiple compliments already and haven’t left my home.😊
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Kee,
Thank you for your lovely feedback! 💖
We're so glad to hear that you appreciate our transparency and communication regarding shipping. It’s wonderful to know you received your bag sooner than expected and that you’re enjoying it! We take pride in our craftsmanship, and it means a lot to us that you’ve already received compliments.
If you’re ever in need of more items or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Enjoy your beautiful bag! 😊
PJ
Patricia J.
Great addition to my wardrobe…
I loved how I was kept informed on my purchase. When I got it I was surprised as it is just like the photos on the website. The bag is beautifully made. I love this. It will be a great addition to my wardrobe. I look forward to receiving my matching wallet as well. This was a well worth the wait purchase.
Response from MelanistaApr 9, 2025
Hi Patricia,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
We're delighted to hear that you love your bag and that it met your expectations. It’s great to know you appreciated the updates throughout your order process.
We can't wait for you to receive your matching wallet—it's going to look fantastic with your new bag! If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.
Enjoy your new addition to your wardrobe! 💖
SG
Stephanie G.
Highly recommend! Style, quality and customer service
As part of my birthday tradition, I always treat myself to a new pair of shoes and a handbag. This year, my birthday coincided with the economic blackout, which gave me a perfect opportunity to reconsider where I spend my money. In the past, I would typically lean toward luxury brands, but this time I decided to support Black-owned businesses, and I’m so glad I chose to go with Melanista.
I purchased the Rise & Slay - "Kisanii" Graffiti Small Crossbody Satchel, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. The craftsmanship is exceptional, and it truly stands out. The graffiti-inspired design is bold yet chic, making it a perfect balance between edgy and sophisticated. The satchel itself is the perfect size – not too big, not too small – and is just right for carrying my essentials. The material feels luxurious, and the attention to detail in the stitching and hardware is top-notch.
What really made this purchase feel like a win was the bonus matching wallet that came free with the bag. It’s such a lovely touch and ties the whole set together perfectly. The wallet is just as well-made, with plenty of space for cards, cash, and even a little coin pocket. It's sleek and compact, making it both practical and stylish.
Overall, I’m beyond pleased with my decision to support Melanista. Not only did I get a high-quality product, but I also feel great knowing I’m supporting a Black-owned business. The Rise & Slay - "Kisanii" Graffiti Satchel is now my new go-to accessory, and I’ll definitely be looking to Melanista for future purchases. Highly recommend!
Response from MelanistaApr 3, 2025
Hi Stephanie,
Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that you chose to support Melanista for your birthday tradition and that you're so pleased with the Rise & Slay - "Kisanii" Graffiti Small Crossbody Satchel.
It's wonderful to know that you appreciate the craftsmanship and design details, as well as the bonus matching wallet! Your support means a lot to us, and we're honored to be part of your celebration.
We look forward to serving you again and hope to bring you more stylish and high-quality products in the future. Thank you for recommending us!