Go Backstage at “Black Hair Reimagined” With the Top Celebrity Hairstylists

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While we all look to the Met Gala for fashion inspiration — alongside some standout beauty moments and drugstore products we can shop — “Black Hair Reimagined” is where we go for our fill of elaborate hairstyles. The brainchild of Jawara Wauchope and Jarrod Lacks of Echelon Noir, it’s a celebration of the extraordinary innovation and artistry around Black hair and a tribute to the powerful legacy of Black hair shows. Their awe-inspiring creations, including a gravity-defying braided updo and an oversized perfectly-coiffed Mohawk, would easily dominate the Met Gala red carpet or any event for that matter.

Some of the most creative minds in the industry contributed to the record thirty hairpieces that graced the runway, including Jawara Wauchope, Malcolm Marquez, Fesa Nu, Vernon François, Issac Poleon, Joshua Meekins on hair; makeup by Jamal Scott and Raisa Flowers; nails by Dawn Sterling; tailoring by Coco Lee; and styling by such names as Solange Franklin, Jan-Michael Quammie, Ronald Burton III, Edward Bowleg, Matthew Henson, and Yohana Lebasi.

With Black hair constantly under attack at our schools, workplaces, and more, it was especially moving to see the co-founder of the CROWN (“Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair”) Coalition, Dove, come on as a major sponsor for the event. Dove supported the passage of the CROWN Act, legislation that prohibits race-based hair discrimination against textured hair and protective styles, including braids, locs, and more. As we celebrated Black hair, it was also important to acknowledge the many instances where we’re still fighting for fair and equal treatment for our strands — and the progress we’re making step by step.

While some of the “Black Hair Reimagined” hairpieces are a bit too intricate to recreate for everyday life (maybe!), we did get the scoop on the products artists used backstage for the second annual event — and one from the gift bag. If it’s good enough to hold an intricate braided web in place, surely, it’ll work for your sleek top knot. Keep scrolling to shop and see our favorite looks from the runway.

$<cite> <a href="http://bfa.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:BFA;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" data-yga="{"yLinkElement":"context_link","yModuleName":"content-canvas","yLinkText":"BFA"}" class="link "> BFA </a> </cite>$

Amika Headstrong Intense Hold Spray ($27)

Vernon François grabbed this hold spray to keep everything from finger waves to elaborate updos in place. The spray delivers an intense, frizz-free hold without leaving any residue behind and keeping hair touchable.

Dove Serum+ Shower Oil Body Wash with Jojoba & Monoi Flower Oils, Radiance Hydrating Cleanser ($13)

Every guest walked away with Dove Serum+ Shower Oil Body Wash in their gift bags. My personal favorite is the option with jojoba oil, which provides lasting hydration and a calming scent whenever I use it.

L’Oréal Professionnel Curl Expression 10-in-1 Mousse ($38)

Jawara Wauchope’s styles, which include an intricate braided maze, were brought to life using this bestselling mousse. Especially formulated for curly and coily hair, it delivers curl definition, moisture, heat protection, and more.

Got2B Glued Blasting Freeze Spray ($11)

This freeze spray is so popular, you’d be hard-pressed to find a beauty cabinet without it. It provides a firm, lasting hold, whether you’re wearing a lace-front wig or securing an updo in place.

Keep scrolling for our favorite looks from the “Black Hair Reimagined” show.

Jawara Wauchope

Fesa Nu

Jawara Wauchope

Vernon François

Issac Poleon

Malcolm Marquez

Isaac Poleon

Fesa Nu

Malcolm Marquez

Joshua Meekins

Jessica C. Andrews (she/her) is an award-winning editor and writer who currently works as the senior style director of PS, overseeing beauty, fashion, shopping, and identity content. With more than 15 years of experience, her areas of expertise include fashion, shopping, and travel. Prior to joining PS, Jessica held senior roles at Teen Vogue, Refinery29, and Bustle and contributed to The New York Times, Elle, Vanity Fair, and Essence. She’s appeared on “Good Morning America,” NBC, and Fox 5 New York and spoken on various panels about fashion, hair, and Black culture.