Whether you keep it sleek like Didi Stone, prefer to shake things up like FKA Twigs, or have more of a Megan Thee Stallion city girl style, many of the hottest trends we know and love have their origin in Black culture. In honor of taking time to give credit where it’s due, here are just a few of our favorite Black beauty trends that we just can’t get enough of.
Statement nails
From rappers and singers to artists and influencers, head-turning nails that make an impression have been all the rage for a minute. Nail decor dates back to the BC days as an adornment of choice for royals.
These days, they’ve come to be an art form all their own associated with individual style and creativity. Thanks to fashion pioneers like Donyale Luna, Flo Jo, and Diana Ross, and more recently icons like Lizzo and Doja Cat, the manicure movement is here to stay.
Coconut oil
One of the most significant trends around right now, coconut oil has been a staple in Black hair and skincare routines for ages.
With benefits ranging from growth retention and scalp conditioning to moisturizing and healing properties, coconut oil was traditionally used in Africa. The use of coconut oil in Black hair care products follows this tradition and can be seen in Madam CJ Walker's formulas as early as the early 1900s.
Laid edges
Laying baby hairs to frame the face is a major trend with roots in Black culture. What originally started as an attempt to “tame” unruly hair quickly turned into an art form with 20s stars like Josephine Baker and Baby Esther molding their baby hair into innovative swoops, finger waves, and curly q’s.
Fast forward to the present - from the local salon to the red carpet and runway, it's not uncommon to see edges that are fully laid with styles ranging from classic to one-of-a-kind.
Hoop earrings
Who doesn’t love hoops? These eye-catching accessories are synonymous with Afrocentric style.
Dating as far back as 4th Century Africa, hoop earrings symbolize power and strength. Hoops made a sweeping resurgence in fashion in the 90s and 2000s, with artists like Missy Elliot and Lauryn Hill repping them on the regular. Once again one of the most prominent trends in popular culture, hoops have been dominating the runways and in high demand.
Glitter makeup
Most are familiar with glitter’s disco history, but who knew about glitter’s Nollywood life? Old Nollywood (Nigerian film industry) films are known for their shimmery looks that would, in turn, influence 90s and 2000s fashion in the United States and beyond.
Today, glitter-heavy styles such as those made famous by makeup artists like Pat McGrath are in high demand across many cultures as a display of self-expression and individuality.
Let’s face it - the world wouldn’t look the same if it weren’t for the influence of Black culture and style. What Black beauty trends do you vibe with the most?
Black Beauty Trends We Love to See
by Eartha Terrell – February 18, 2022
