Photography (left to right): Migiani Piciato (@migi.pics) and Rebecca Smeyne (@rebeccasmeyne)
The second annual Texture On Set, a groundbreaking professional hair industry educational event founded by renowned hairstylist and educator Naeemah LaFond, rolled out to a sold-out crowd that was peppered by a who’s who of the Black beauty and fashion elite. Building upon the success of its inaugural year, this immersive master class aimed to elevate and bridge the gap in texture education within the fashion and beauty industries, creating a space where texture is prioritized, elevated, and celebrated at the highest level.
LaFond, a Brooklyn native and Global Brand Ambassador for OLAPLEX, established Texture On Set in response to the industry's historical shortcomings in styling textured hair. She observed firsthand the challenges faced by Black models on set and during New York Fashion Week (NYFW), including inadequate hair care, a lack of stylist proficiency, and an overall disregard for the artistry required for textured hair which revealed a glaring, systemic gap in the industry.
Photography: Courtesy of Rebecca Smeyne (@rebeccasmeyne)
Motivated by these experiences, LaFond manifested her bold vision of creating a space where textured hair is not merely acknowledged but celebrated, where education transcends traditional techniques, and where every artist, regardless of background, is empowered to master the true art of texture.
Photography: Courtesy of Maureen Sheen (@maureensheen)
Texture On Set featured a dynamic lineup designed to inspire and empower hairstylists at all levels. Attendees were treated to live demonstrations and presentations by top artists like Mizani Artist Tippi Shorter, Redken Artist Leysa Carrillo and L’Oréal Professionnel Artist Derick Monroe, a panel discussion that brought together industry leaders like Vernon François, Chuck Amos, Adeng and Maude Okrah Hunter who shared insights on their careers and the evolving landscape of textured hair in fashion, and a live photoshoot showcasing textured hair artistry in real-time, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at editorial hair styling and fashion photography.
Photography: Courtesy of Rebecca Smeyne (@rebeccasmeyne)
LaFond's meticulous attention to detail extended beyond the technical aspects of the event. She curated a segment led by celebrated makeup artist and educator, Michela Warebi, which delved into the historical and cultural significance of beauty. This discussion underscored beauty as a practice, ritual, and form of communication, enriching attendees' understanding of the deeper narratives woven into hairstyling.
Photography: Courtesy of Migiani Piciato (@migi.pics)
Looking ahead, Texture On Set is poised to continue its mission of elevating textured hair education and representation. By uniting professionals, celebrating cultural narratives, and providing comprehensive education, the event contributes to a more inclusive and diverse beauty landscape. The success of Texture On Set is also attributed to the unwavering support of its sponsors who champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, and whose collective commitment highlights a pivotal shift towards embracing and celebrating textured hair within mainstream fashion and beauty. Sponsors included L’Oréal Professional Products Division, The Texture of Change, SalonCentric, OLAPLEX, Oribe, Dyson, Ulta Beauty, and Pattern Beauty.
Next, discover more textured hair education in this article: Why It Pays To Know How To Care for Textured Hair.
