6 celebrity black hair moments from 2017 that deserve a standing ovation
Meet the women that nailed the mane game this year!
Here at All Things Hair, we love to celebrate both natural and black hair in all its glory – because it is, after all, quite simply beautiful! And since we’re nearing the end of the year, we thought it seemed appropriate to look back and do a retrospective round-up of the best (and most iconic) celebrity black hair moments of 2017.
Celebrity black hair: The most iconic looks from 2017
Janelle Monae’s decorated updos
In case you haven’t noticed, Janelle Monae has been winning the red carpet mane game this year. How? By schooling us all in the art of tressing up natural hair, by rocking hers with an array of stunning hair accessories.
Yep, we’re talking about space buns with metallic flowers to updos wrapped in pearls and more. She didn’t come to play, she came to slay!
Solange Knowles’ blonde afro
Contrary to the belief, platinum blonde hair isn’t only for those with sleeker strands, as Solange Knowles decided to showcase her natural take on the trend during New York Fashion Week. And guess what? She killed it!
When coupled with her gorgeous black hair, this chic hue works to highlight her features and make her coils come to life. So, the question is: are you ready to get a blonde afro?
Editor’s tip: If you’re tempted get this hue, remember to use a wash and care system specifically formulated for dyed blonde hair.
We’re currently fawning over the TONIGUY Illuminate Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner, as it helps hair look frizz-free, all while helping maintain your hue’s vibrancy.
Ruth Negga’s glam cornrows
Happen to be looking for a lush low manipulation hairstyle to rock in the new year? Then this might be your new favourite way to rock your natural hair!
As Ruth Negga demonstrates, straight-back cornrows look undeniably elegant (and edgy) when styled to sleek perfection. Take notes, ladies, take notes!
Miss Jamaica Davina Bennet’s afro
Those familiar with the Miss Universe beauty pageant are likely to characterise the parade of contestants who participate as beautiful with long, blown out hair. However, this year, Davina Bennett (AKA Miss Jamaica and second place runner up) challenged this by wearing an iconic afro hairstyle.
Though Davina didn’t take home the Miss Universe crown, she proved that natural hair can be accepted and celebrated as much as any other ‘do.
Zendaya’s power afro
Another star who was slaying a statement-making afro this year? Zendaya, of course!
With her perfectly-rounded power afro (which we reckon Angela Davis would totally approve of!), she looks ready to take on the world and show it how magical black hair really can be. Viva la afro!
Editor’s tip: Envious of Zendaya’s super shiny afro? A quick allover spritz of the Alberto Balsam Stunning Shine Spray before you leave the house and you’ll have star-worthy locks in no time.
Rochelle Humes’ decision to go natural
When Rochelle Humes shared that her daughter was the inspiring reason behind her choice to embrace her natural hair, she instantly became a mane hero. And we’d be lying if we didn’t say it: we can’t wait to see Rochelle’s natural hair journey progress in 2018. So, watch this space!
Celebrity black hair: The most iconic moments from 2016
Want to know which black mane moments stole our hearts in 2016? Keep on reading!
Beyonce’s braids
Celebrating her African-American heritage, Beyoncé kicked off her Formation tour by sporting some uber long, highlighted box braids. Note how her braids turn into crimped waves when they reach the mid-way point – now that’s what we call incredible styling!
To some it may just be another hairstyle, but in reality, it was so much more: as she inspired women all over the world to embrace both their heritage and their strands. #Flawless
Rihanna’s dreadlocks
Throughout her career, Rihanna has experimented with a number of different hairstyles – from pixie crops to undercuts – all of which have garnered her a reputation as a styling pro.
But our favourite Ri-Ri hairstyle of 2016 had to be this stylish dreadlocks number, which she completed with a totally on-trend head wrap!
Zoe Kravitz’s bleach blonde mane
Honestly, the first time we saw Zoe Kravitz after dyeing her natural brunette mane a silvery bleach blonde, we barely recognised her!
But, as anticipated, the American actress/singer/model pulled of the daring hair hue with ease. Well, we’d expect nothing less from such a mega-babe as she!
Maria Borge’s VS buzz cut
Maria Borges made headlines in 2015 when she went against the norm and wore her hair au naturel for the Victoria’s Secret Runway Show – and this year wasn’t any different.
The stunning Angolan model flaunted an afro buzz cut as she strutted her stuff down the runway, but had the company of 2 fellow models who also decided to rock their natural manes for the show.
We guess it should come as no surprise that they sparked a #BuzzCutAngels hashtag trend, then!
Kerry Washington’s big curly hair
When a pregnant Kerry Washington stepped out on the Emmys red carpet with her natural curls on show, the internet went into meltdown!
Her afro mane was worn out and proud, with her voluminous strands styled into a neat middle parting, yet leaving the rest free to do their own thing. Kerry, we applaud your incredible ‘fro!
Thandie Newton’s box braid bob
When Thandie Newton ditched her curls in favour of a chic box braid bob, she instantly won extra hair favour in our eyes.
Her braids – which hung just below her shoulders – were accessorised at the ends with gold hair cuffs, taking her look from everyday to red carpet-ready in seconds!
Solange’s hair clip updo
It’s been a busy year for Solange Knowles in the style stakes, having wowed us on so many occasions with her ability to rock her natural tresses in an on-trend fashion! But if we had to choose just one look from her ‘fro repertoire, it would have to be when she stepped out on the red carpet sporting a sleek, low bun.
This might not sound very groundbreaking, but Solange had adorned her slick ‘do with several silver hair clips to match her sci-fi-inspired metallic suit. Very fancy!
Fleur East’s daring blue afro
Singer and former X Factor contestant Fleur East is always spotted out and about showcasing her natural curls. But this year, she really wowed the crowd (and us) at V Festival with her vibrant, voluminous blue afro. We kinda want to dye our hair blue now, too…
Editor’s tip: If you’re thinking about copying one of these hot celeb hairstyles, then make sure your natural hair is in tip-top condition, by prepping it using the LOC, LOCO or LCO method (which stand for liquid, oil and cream).
