30 Black Fashion Icons Who Will Inspire Your Style Game

Farah Prince
Feb 25, 2015

When we think of fashion icons, we think of women who stand out as trendsetters of their generation. Over the course of a century, we’ve seen some incredible African American women do just that. Not only did they break down racial barriers in areas like music, film and modeling, but they also paved the way for some of our most influential fashion styles today. In honor of Black History Month, we wanted to celebrate 30 stylish African American women who redefined the fashion world.

1. Diana Ross: Like her empowering music and gravity-defying ‘fro, Diana Ross has a style that commands attention. This legendary diva is best known for her sequined ensembles she rocked as head of the Supremes. (Photo via Evening Standard/Getty)

2. Eartha Kitt: Orson Welles referred to the singer-actress as “the most exciting woman in the world,” and her style certainly reflected that. She embodied the Catwoman role that made her famous with her sultry dresses and animal print outfits. (Photo via Keystone/Getty)

3. Josephine Baker: This Jazz Age icon dazzled whether she was draped in diamonds and furs or performing in a bold mini skirt made of bananas. (Photo via General Photographic/Getty )

4. Grace Jones: Grace Jones paved the way for androgynous style as we know it today. Her ’80s style flat top and fierce outfits were an inspiration to artists like Keith Haring and Jean Paul Goude. (Photo via Keystone Features/Getty)

5. Donna Summer: A five-time Grammy winner, Donna Summer was known as the unofficial queen of disco in the ’70s. She oozed sensuality with her high slits, plush furs and sexy sequined numbers. (Photo via Keystone/Getty)

6. Dorothy Dandridge: Known for her signature off-the-shoulder dresses and vivid red lipsticks, Dorothy Dandridge was Old Hollywood personified. Her elegance and natural beauty shone on and off the screen. (Photo via Evening Standard/Getty)

7. Lena Horne: Whether it was her activism or style, Lena Horne always made a statement. She knew exactly how to accentuate her mile-long legs and hourglass figure with body-skimming dresses. (Photo via Hulton Archive/Getty)

8. Naomi Sims: The legendary supermodel helped break down social barriers by becoming the first African American woman to be featured on the cover of Ladies Home Journal in the late ’60s, helping to usher in the “Black is Beautiful” movement. Her incredible successes never tempered her classic, effortlessly chic style. (Photo via LIFE)

9. Diahann Carroll: Award-winning actress Diahann Carroll had such a captivating personality that translated on and off the screen. She became enviable for her refined, feminine style, with her figure-hugging dresses and classic pantsuits. (Photo via NBC Television/Getty)

10. Pam Grier: She was the first African American actress to headline an action film, playing a strong and confident women in Coffy. Pam epitomized ’70s fashion with her high-waisted pants, plunging necklines and platform shoes. (Photo via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios)

11. Ophelia DeVore: Ophelia not only redefined beauty standards, but she also changed the way women of color were seen in the modeling industry. She always looked stylish, whether she was wearing a swimsuit or a business suit. (Photo via Ophelia DeVore)

12. Iman: This Somali-born model made her debut in Vogue, and ever since then she has inspired the world. Her timeless style won her a Fashion Icon Award in 2010. (Photo via Ishimuro/Vogue)

13. Beverly Johnson: Before Iman strutted down the runway, there was Beverly Johnson, the first black model to ever appear in Vogue. Everything she wore exuded sophistication and glamour. (Photo via Francesco Scavullo /Vogue)

14. Dame Shirley Bassey: With a career spanning over 60 years, the Welsh singer Dame Shirley Bassey has cultivated a style that is as varied as her music. She would perform in gowns covered in gems, and the next day look effortless in a printed silk crop top. (Photo via Getty/John Pratt)

15. Pat Cleveland: A famous ’60s fashion model, Pat Cleveland was associated with big names like Karl Lagerfeld and Oscar de la Renta. She was featured in countless editorials, from Vogue to GQ. Her style was a mix of fashion-forward elegance. (Photo via Irving Penn /Vogue)

16. Carmen de Lavallade: Dance icon Carmen de Lavallade captivated audiences on stage with her innovative movements. Off stage, her graceful style and elegant outfits, created by her husband Geoffrey Holder, inspired many. (Photo via First Run Features)

17. Chaka Khan: No one pushed the boundaries of fashion more in the ’70s than legendary diva Chaka Khan. Her eclectic outfits, from fur bras to fringe suede pants, are as distinctive as her incredible voice. (Photo via Central Press/Getty)

18. Maya Angelou: Maya Angelou was known as a driving force in American society with her powerful writing and activism, not to mention her subtle, sophisticated style. (Photo via Bill Moyers)

19. Erykah Badu: Since the late ’90s, Erykah Badu has rocked a personal style that celebrates nonconformity. Her towering turbans and bohemian street style have made her a fashion icon. (Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)

20. Billie Holiday: The sultry songstress enchanted audiences with her distinctive jazz music and unique style. From her ornate floral headpieces to the fit-and-flare dresses that accentuated her curves, Billie Holiday stood out from all those around her. (Photo via Hulton Archive/Getty)

21. Lupita Nyong’o: Her onscreen talents have won her incredible movie roles and even an Oscar, but it’s her red carpet style that has made her a fashion icon. Lupita always looks put together and isn’t afraid of standing out in bold-colored ensembles. (Photo via Larry Busacca/Getty)

22. Rihanna: When it comes to Rihanna’s style game, always expect the unexpected. Her outfits run the gamut from glamorous gowns to risqué suits. Everything she wears is sexy, trendsetting and anything but boring. (Photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty)

23. Kerry Washington: Kerry Washington is the definition of classic Hollywood glamour. No matter if she’s barking orders as Olivia Pope on Scandal or rocking the red carpet, her impeccable style inspires serious closet envy. (Photo via Joe Scarnici/Getty)

24. Solange: Take one look at Solange’s recent wedding photos, and you’ll see why we had to add her to this list. Her cream Stéphane Rolland jumpsuit is just the sort of unexpected but incredibly fashion-forward choice you’d expect from this stylish tastemaker. (Photo via Andrew H. Walker/Getty)

25. Nicki Minaj: From her days of multi-colored wigs and outrageous outfits to her current understated look, Nikki Minaj never fails to inspire with her ability to pull off just about anything. (Photo via Larry Busacca/Getty)

26. Gabrielle Union: Whether she’s wearing couture on the red carpet or jeans and a blazer on the street, Gabrielle Union has a style that oozes confidence and femininity. (Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)

27. Tracee Ellis Ross: It is abundantly clear that Tracee inherited more than just her mother’s (see #1) fabulous curls. Her penchant for wearing bold silhouettes or retro pieces, like her mother’s vintage leather trousers, make Tracee’s fashion choices an inspiration to be daring. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

28. Michelle Obama: Since she became the First Lady of the United States in 2008, Michelle Obama has advocated for better programs to end childhood obesity and teamed up with Redbook to help female veterans get jobs, all while looking impeccably chic. Her style blends bold elegance and understated garments. (Photo via Michael Loccisano/Getty)

29. TK and Cipriana Quann: These stylish sisters have a flair for mixing vintage finds and have been featured in Vogue, Allure and The Coveteur. TK, who goes by TK Wonder, is a singer/songwriter, while Cipriana is co-founder of the blog Urban Bush Babes. It’s full of beauty advice, fun interviews and sartorial inspiration from the fashionable duo. (Photo via Brad Barket/Getty)

30. Beyoncé: Of course, no style icon list is complete without adding Beyoncé to its ranks. From the outfits she posts on her Instagram to her fierce on-stage costumes and her courtside Nets game attire, Queen Bey never looks anything but ***flawless. (Photo via Elsa/Getty)

Got anyone we should add to our list? Let us know in the comments below!

40 Perfect Gifts I’d Give My Best Friends (But Really Want For Myself)

My best friends mean the world to me, and though I wish I could give them the world, this year, I just want to get them gifts that are as special as our friendship. Whether it’s a personalized pendant, a cute skincare set, or the lip shade they simply can’t stop talking about, I want them to know just how much I care about their companionship! Thus, I’ve curated the ultimate list of gifts for best friends to help you gift your besties something they’ll truly love, especially if it comes from you. These gifts are so good, I really want them for myself, too.

Our 40 favorite gifts for best friends:

Scroll on to see the absolute best gifts for best friends to give in 2024!

Amazon

1. Scent Beauty by Sabrina Carpenter Cherry Baby Eau de Parfum

Leave it to Sabrina Carpenter to influence my list of gifts for best friends. Her "Cherry Baby" scent carries sultry notes of vanilla, peony, cherries, and chocolate, which is the perfect aroma for a night out with the girls.

Summer Fridays

2. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

This lip balm is viral for a reason. Your besties' lips deserve all the instant moisture, color, and shine this tube provides. This brown sugar shade looks decadent AF, but you can also snag it in other fun 'flavors' like iced coffee and mint.

Urban Outfitters

3. Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera

For the one that's always documenting the friend group's antics, they'll enjoy taking this unique, screen-free digicam on nights out, weekend trips, and cozy nights in! It captures film-style photos (without the time-consuming film photography process), and it can be used over and over again since it's rechargeable.

SeaVees

4. SeaVees Hayward Platform Shoes

Moccasin-style shoes are super popular this winter. I love how comfortable SeaVees' shoes are, so I might just have to share the love with my besties this holiday season... and snag a pair for myself so we can match, of course!

Dieux

5. Dieux Angel Face Cleanser + Moisturizer Bundle

Dieux is one of my go-to skincare brands for effective products that still take it easy on my sensitive skin. Their Baptism cleanser, part of this giftable duo, provides a nice clean without stripping any moisture from my skin. I also use their Instant Angel moisturizer religiously in the wintertime since things tend to get real dry. I'd say you can confidently gift this set to besties of any skin type.

Anthropologie

6. By Anthropologie Monogram Heart Locket Necklace

Personalized gifts will always feel special. Kick this gift idea up a notch by inserting a little pic of you and your BFF in the locket before wrapping and handing it over!

Urban Outfitters

7. Baggu Mini Nylon Shoulder Bag

I carry this Baggu bag just about everywhere I go. It's perfect for happy hours or dinners since it's small and not too much of a hassle to tow along, but don't let its size fool you: this baby can fit a lot. Your most stylish best friend will be wearing it the moment they open their gift!

Target

8. Jingle & Mingle 5 Days of Rosé Wine Set

You can never go wrong with rosé, baby! This gift set carries 5 personal-sized bottles of different varieties for them to sip on around the holidays.

Kulfi Beauty

9. Kulfi Beauty All Night Out Eye Set

This eye makeup set is complete with a bold eyeliner shade and a shimmery pot of eyeshadow. You get to choose the exact shades of each before purchasing, so this is truly one of the most fun personalized gift ideas. The set also comes with a funky pair of mismatched hair clips – so cute!

Dame

10. Dame Massage Oil Candle

This soothing candle melts down into a sweet-smelling massage oil that's easily dispensable, thanks to the pointed spout on the glass. This is a great gift for your single and partnered pals alike, whether they're using it to wind down themselves or for sexy time with their S.O.!

Life is Good

11. Life is Good 'I Deserve A Little Treat' Boxy Crusher Tee

Everyone deserves a little treat. Wrap up this awesome (and comfy!) tee alongside your bestie's favorite snack, sweet treat, or freshly-baked dessert to totally nail their gift this year!

Compartés

12. Compartés Pistachio Sea Salt Chocolate Truffles

These aesthetically-pleasing truffles could be the perfect sweet treat in question!

Nordstrom

13. OSEA Super Glow Body Set

I know anyone in my close friends circle would be happy to be gifted some nice skincare goodies. This luxe set from OSEA comes with a body wash, oil, and serum to keep skin looking and feeling happy!

Subscribe to our newsletter for even more holiday gift ideas!

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Lupita Nyong’o’s Weird Red Carpet Hair Accessory Is a Look You’ll Want to Try

The verdict is still out on the recent release of the new Star Wars movie, but one thing is for sure: The celeb style spotted at the film’s multiple premieres has been totally killing it. At the LA event, Zendaya showed up rocking the coolest cozy girl outfit ever, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt went full Yoda on us (face paint and all). But, not surprisingly, the queen of the intergalactic red carpet has been Lupita Nyong’o.

The super talented actress and style icon rocked a sparkly silver gown by Alexandre Vauthier Couture at the Hollywood premiere, but it looks like she’s decided to take things to another level for the London debut. While on the other side of the pond, Lupita paired a stand-out shade of metallic blue lipstick with with a mesh hair accessory. Lupita shared the look on her Instagram alongside the caption, “We’re calling it the #MeshKanata. Ha.” Just in case you’re a Star Wars newbie, Lupita is putting a punny spin on her Star Wars character’s name, Maz Kanata.

This isn’t the first time Lupita has gotten creative with her hairstyle. During the summer when she and her crew were camping in Kenya sans a spray bottle, she decided to use the steam from an iron instead. Lupita, if the whole acting thing doesn’t work out, we’re thinking you definitely have a job in the beauty industry.

Would you try Lupita’s unique hair accessory? Tell us what you think on Twitter @britandco.

(Photos via Karwai Tang/Chris Jackson/Getty)

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Cher's All In For 'Mamma Mia 3' — & She Wants Meryl Streep Back With Her

Our favorite dancing queens (Meryl Streep included) might be returning to the big screen for a third encore of Mamma Mia! and we’re already rewatching the first two movie musicals in preparation.

In an interview with Deadline in May of 2023, Mamma Mia! franchise creator and producer Judy Craymer said a third movie musical is in "earliest stages." She also shared that she has come up with a way to bring Meryl Streep back again.

"I don't want to over-egg it," she said of the unofficial news, "but I know there's a trilogy there…and I do think Meryl should come back, and if the script is right, she would, I think, because she really loved playing Donna."

"Of course I want to do it," Streep said during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival (via Deadline). Sounds promising to us!

Is Mamma Mia 3 happening?

Universal Pictures

Yes, Mamma Mia 3 is in its early planning stages! Christine Baranski just told The Hollywood Reporter that she's met with producer Judy Kramer, and that Kramer has plans for the third movie. "She gave me the narrative plotline of how it’s going to happen," Baranski says. "That’s all I can say! But, it’s not like, 'Oh, I wish it could happen!' Judy Kramer makes things happen. She made number two happen, and it was a phenomenal hit. I wouldn’t put it past Judy Kramer to get everybody back together."

Universal Pictures

A third installation was first mentioned way back in 2020, during a Collider interview with Mamma Mia! star Amanda Seyfried. Seyfried said she was on board — and at the time, she thought the rest of the star-studded cast would be too.

"Listen, every single person in that movie would say yes in a heartbeat because we want to hang out with each other," Seyfried told Collider at the time. "That's what we talked about last time, like did we ever think that we'd end up here again on an Island in Croatia?"

When will Mamma Mia 3 come out?

Universal Pictures

We don't have an official answer about when to expect this highly anticipated sequel. The project is in the "earliest stages," according to creator and producer, Judy Craymer. Cher also revealed to Entertainment Weekly that everyone is "talking about it," but she doesn't "know when they're going to do it."

Has casting information been shared about Mamma Mia 3?

Jonathan Prime/Universal Studios

While nothing's been made official, Amanda Seyfried just said something that made my heart skip a beat. She told ABC News she loves Sabrina Carpenter's music and dropped this admission: "If Sabrina Carpenter wants to play my daughter, I’ll make it happen."

But before she admitted that, the actress said something else that made me raise my eyebrows. "Everybody says it’s gonna happen, but I mean, I haven’t seen a script."

Cher is also eager to return to the beloved franchise and is rooting for Meryl to make an appearance again. "I keep saying, 'Meryl, you've got to come back,'" she said (via Entertainment Weekly). She also said she's told her, "'It'll be fun. You'll have a good time. You'll be able to sing.'"

I don't know what it'll take, but hope someone gets a script in Amanda Seyfried, Cher, and Meryl Streep's hands ASAP!

What is the first Mamma Mia about?

Universal Pictures

The first film follows Donna (Streep) and Sophie (Seyfried) as mother and daughter living on a remote Greek island. When Sophie is about to marry Sky (Dominic Cooper), she sets out to learn who her real father is after discovering it could be one of three men (played by Pierce Brosnan, Stellan Skarsgard, and Colin Firth).

Who does the second Mamma Mia follow?

Universal Pictures / NBCUniversal

Mamma Mia 2takes viewers back to 1979, where young Donna (Lily James) embarks on a series of adventures throughout Europe following her Oxford University graduation. On her journeys, she makes the acquaintances of Harry, Bill and Sam – the latter whom she falls in love with. In the present day, pregnant Sophie dreams of renovating a taverna while reuniting with her mother's old friends and boyfriends on a Greek island island.

TBH, we’re pretty happy that Mamma Mia! is far from over, and we can’t wait to see what the franchise has in store for us next. Stay updated on all the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

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Paul Mescal Just Accidentally Proved He Always Has Daisy Edgar-Jones Top Of Mind

There's nothing ~normal~ about how much we love Normal People's Paul Mescal & Daisy Edgar-Jones. While it turns out we're not getting a Normal People season 2 (yet), the two actors are starring in some of 2024's biggest blockbusters (Twisters and Gladiator II, namely), and we've been soaking up their presences ever since.

Paul recently exhibited his ongoing friendship with Daisy at the Gladiator II premiere in Los Angeles. While he approached Brittany Broski on the red carpet for an interview, he recognized her from her recent 'Royal Court' interview with Daisy:

"You were with Daisy!" he chimed in excitingly. We just love this power duo!

Enda Bowe/Hulu

Daisy Edgar-Jones also revealed that she's remained incredibly close to Paul Mescal after their time on Hulu's Normal People. "Paul is one of my lifetime best friends," she says. "He’s an incredibly grounded person and I am too, I think, so it’s nice to be able to have those touchstones and those people you can laugh about it with and be lighthearted with. We met when I was 20 and Paul was 22; I’m so excited to see where we’ll be at 32, 42, and what life will bring us."

But the coolest thing is that not only is Normal People special for Paul and Daisy, but they've also been able to see the effect of the show on its fans.

"The thing I love people saying the most is, 'It made me contact my ex,'" Daisy continues. "Especially when much older people say, 'I just wanted to reach out to the person I was with when I was 17 just to say you were a big part of my history and thanks for being part of who I am, the tapestry of my life.' And that I really love, because I’m a massive romantic."

Daisy recently revealed they bonded over their training for Twisters and Gladiator II.

"I did running lessons — isn’t that crazy?" she told Variety. "Actually, Paul [Mescal] and I were laughing about it, because he was training for 'Gladiator II' and I was training for 'Twisters,' and obviously he had to be huge and I was like, 'Don’t worry, I’m going to be right up there with you.'"

Let us know your favorite Normal People moment in the comments and check out 5 Leading Ladies We'd Love To See In A Paul Mescal Rom-Com.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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