In a tribute to the transformative power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Melissa Butler, founder of The Lip Bar, has launched the HBCU Full Gloss collection, a vibrant ode to the institutions that have been integral to her journey. For Butler, a proud alumna of Florida A&M University, this collection is more than just a beauty line; it’s a celebration of community, empowerment and resilience nurtured at HBCUs. “I owe so much to my HBCU, especially FAMU,” she says. “The richness of culture there is unmatched. My first customers and employees were HBCU grads, so I wanted to show love in honor of how much love these institutions have given to men and women for generations.”
Her experience at FAMU, which she fondly recalls as a “fashion show” of students consistently dressed to impress, deeply influenced her approach to both personal style and beauty. “At FAMU, I learned to always show up for myself, to put my best foot forward, and that philosophy is reflected in The Lip Bar. It’s about embracing who you are and showing up unapologetically every day.” Through her line, Butler extends this message to anyone who wears her glosses, aiming to inspire confidence and authenticity.
The HBCU Full Gloss collection is especially timely as homecoming season kicks into full swing—a time Butler likens to a family reunion. “Homecoming is that moment where you see friends-turned-family and celebrate the incredible legacy of your university,” Butler said. “But it’s also a chance to see the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs, and I make a point to speak with students, sharing my story to remind them that my success isn’t far removed from where they are now.” As part of this commitment, The Lip Bar is donating proceeds from the collection to participating HBCUs and recently awarded a $10,000 scholarship to FAMU, a testament to Butler’s dedication to giving back.
Creating a collection that celebrates HBCUs resonates on a deeply personal level for Butler. “This is one of the proudest collections we’ve launched. HBCUs allow students to embrace their identities without the need to conform, which aligns with The Lip Bar’s mission: empowering people to love themselves as they are. This collection felt natural because it’s an extension of our origin story, connecting with HBCUs’ emphasis on individuality and strength.”
Reflecting on her time at FAMU, Butler credits the experience with teaching her key lessons about accountability, leadership and resilience. “We were reminded constantly that ‘excuses are tools of incompetence.’ That sense of responsibility has been invaluable in my journey as a business owner,” she shared. FAMU’s community also instilled in her a spirit of support that remains integral to her entrepreneurial approach. “My first hires were FAMU grads. At an HBCU, you learn to ask for help and to trust that others have your back.”
Butler’s advice to current HBCU students dreaming of entrepreneurship is rooted in these experiences. “College is the perfect place to practice the skills needed to run a business—leadership, strategic planning and community building. Whether you’re pledging, joining a club or organizing events, you’re learning how to create and navigate a system, which is essential for entrepreneurship.”
The HBCU Full Gloss collection aims to bring that sense of pride, nostalgia and appreciation to students and alumni alike. “We want every HBCU grad and student to feel seen and valued,” Butler said. “The TLB isn’t just adding to the beauty conversation; we’re celebrating HBCUs as spaces where brilliance, culture and success come together.” Through this collection, Butler celebrates HBCUs as more than academic institutions—they are catalysts for identity, confidence and ambition that leave a lasting impact on generations.
Shop the full collection named after different HBCUs below.
The Lip Bar
HBCU Gloss Collection Bundles
