Texture on set: a revolution in beauty – industry leaders demand change

For decades, textured hair has been relegated to the margins of the fashion and Beauty industries, a persistent afterthought on runways and in studios. But a powerful new movement, spearheaded by hairstylist Naeemah LaFond, is finally shifting the narrative.

A day dedicated to equity

Texture On Set, a one-day industry event now in its third year, brought together over 300 professionals – from editorial stylists and celebrity makeup artists to salon owners and leadership – to address a critical need: genuine inclusivity. The event, bolstered by presenting partner Olaplex and a host of luxury brands including Oribe, Pattern Beauty, and Dyson, wasn’t simply an educational workshop; it was a declaration of intent.

LaFond, witnessing firsthand the anxiety and frustration experienced by models with textured hair during past photo shoots, established Texture On Set as a direct response to systemic inequity. The aim? To cultivate a community built on collaboration and a shared commitment to dismantling outdated practices.

Beyond tutorials: historical context and cultural understanding

The day’s programming extended far beyond basic styling techniques. Jean Paul Dia, a curl specialist and Olaplex Ambassador, led a tutorial centering on the crucial aspect of hair care, emphasizing the humanity and lived experience of the models behind the visuals. Stacey Ciceron, an Oribe Global Ambassador, demonstrated the versatility of styling techniques, showcasing how a single ponytail could be adapted to different hair textures and states – showcasing the nuanced approach required when working with diverse hair types. But perhaps the most impactful segment was a presentation by Michela Wariebi, a makeup artist and historian, who illuminated the profound and often painful history of Black hair. Wariebi traced innovations from the 16th century to the present, arguing that Black hair practices have historically been intertwined with both resistance and oppression. “It’s very hard to be fully culturally competent without understanding the background of how we reached where we are,” Wariebi stated, highlighting how aesthetics have often been weaponized.

Chuck Amos, a legendary hair stylist whose work has defined iconic looks, including Beyoncé’s ‘Dangerously In Love’ album cover, delivered a masterclass, underscoring the legacy of innovation born from necessity. The event culminated in the Texture On Set awards, recognizing those who have paved the way for a more equitable industry – Sondrea Demry, Ursula Stephens, and Itaysha Jordan.

But LaFond’s vision extends beyond a single day. She’s calling for a fundamental shift in perspective, urging the industry to confront decades of disregard for textured hair. “We all need to come together to figure this out,” she emphasized. “It’s not about one brand or one person using their voice. It’s about all of us collectively, saying, ‘This has to change in the industry.’” The numbers speak for themselves: 300+ attendees, a diverse coalition of talent and leaders – a tangible step towards a more inclusive future. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about acknowledging a history of marginalization and actively building a space where all voices are heard and respected. The conversation has begun.