We have been so excited and anxiously waiting for all the amazing styles to debut from New York Fashion Week and they did not disappoint. As the runway continues to grow and change with new and emerging designers we have been casually spotting and looking for more representation to feature in our Texture On the Runway series. During a period where all eyes are on the latest trends, designs, clothes, and accessories that will usher in the latest in covetable looks, we want to see ourselves. And by us, I mean people of color with their natural hair on display for all of the world to see. NYFW has been working its way towards creating more representation for Black designers and championing for body and gender diversity on the runway. Natural hairstyles that are styled correctly and showcase a range in texture, color, and variations has been slowly catching up to the fashion world as we began to see designers embracing the versatility of natural hair.
Long gone are the days of making models sport long straight hair because they don’t have the tools, technique, or stylists to help them achieve the desired look. We’re now seeing fashionistas embrace Black-owned hair care and partner with brands to create custom looks for the runway like Marrisa Wilson did with Oribe. The world of fashion is understanding how natural hair can be embraced and used to not only enhance the visuals of their design, but the aesthetic of the show with custom braids, locs, afros, and finger waves in an array of colors, shapes, and sizes. We’re seeing less curly styles and more ornate designs that blend fashion and natural hair with accessories, extensions, wigs, and jewelry for a truly stunning visual. Check out these 15 styles that left us in awe for their originality, complexity, and ability to complete the vision of the designer.
