The Power of a Good Stylist
What’s a great celebrity without a great fit?
Courtesy: Instagram/Law Roach
It’s no secret that in the entertainment business, image is everything. Whether it's a dazzling premiere or a high-profile event, how a celebrity presents themselves can make or break their career (remember all the backlash Billy Porter got for wearing a gown to the 2019 Oscars?).
But not all celebrities know how to throw on a good fit. That’s where an exceptional stylist steps in. Throughout the years, these fashion gurus have led several stars to pop culture success solely through their iconic styling choices. And let’s face it, some of our favorite looks wouldn’t have been possible without a kick-ass stylist. So in honor of Hollywood’s underrated creatives, we’re shedding light on some of the most influential Black stylists behind your favorite celebrity looks.
11 Influential Black Stylists Behind Your Favorite Celebrity Looks:
1. Kollin Carter
Carter, a celebrity stylist based in New York, has gained notable recognition as Cardi B’s stylist. He is often credited with contributing to her success in the fashion realm. Some of Cardi B's most memorable looks, including her standout appearance at the 2019 Met Gala, can be attributed to his inspired styling.
2. André Leon Talley
Talley is revered in the industry not only for his exceptional styling but also for his groundbreaking role as the first Black male creative director at Vogue. His portfolio includes iconic styling for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during their tenure in office. Andre stands out as a creative trailblazer, breaking barriers as the first of his race and gender to become a highly influential and respected tastemaker.
Michelle Obama wearing Thom Brown. Courtesy: Nicholas Kamm/Getty Images
3. Law Roach
Even in retirement, Law remains one of the most sought-after stylists in show business today. His clientele ranges from Kerry Washington to Celine Dion to Bella Hadid. However, his most notable collaboration has been with actress Zendaya. Renowned for his precision, Law Roach has been consistently praised as someone who "doesn't miss," and indeed, he lives up to that reputation.
4. Misa Hylton
Ms.Hylton is responsible for the trendsetting “ghetto fabulous” looks of Mary J. Blige and Lil’ Kim in the 90s and early 2000s. Her fashion architecture mostly took place in Hip-Hop and R&B music videos. The iconic visuals of Lil’ Kim's "Crush on You" video, characterized by lavish fur coats and monochromatic themes, were entirely her creation. She’s the blueprint for that sexy hip-hop look that transpired in subsequent music imagery.
Lil Kim at the 1999 MTV VMAs, styled by Misa Hylton. Courtesy: Getty Images
5. Wayman and Micah
These two Los Angeles-based stylists are relatively new to the fashion game. This dynamic duo has created some of the best recent looks for Black actresses on the red carpets of Hollywood. They’ve styled people like Regina King, Jodie Turner-Smith, and Tessa Thompson.
6. Zerina Akers
Akers's portfolio boasts styling Beyoncé, a collaboration that speaks volumes about her career and creative prowess. Her work on projects like "Lemonade" and "Black is King" has set new standards for groundbreaking visuals in the industry. Additionally, she frequently joins forces with other notable celebrities, including Chloe and Halle Bailey, Ava DuVernay, and Megan Thee Stallion.
7. Jason Bolden
Scan any red carpet, and you're bound to spot someone styled by Bolden. He's in high demand and stands as one of the most powerful stylists in the industry. His roster of clients includes celebs like Yara Shahidi, Taraji P. Henson, and Dwayne Wade.
8. Jahleel Weaver
Weaver has been Rihanna's stylist for years, crafting some of her most iconic looks that have cemented her status as a fashion icon. His creative touch extends to his current role as the creative director of FENTY, where he continues to leave his mark on the fashion world.
9. Patti Wilson
Patti is a stylist whose influence in the fashion industry often flies under the radar, yet her impact is unmistakable. Her artistry shines behind the scenes, particularly in photoshoots for major magazine covers. Collaborating with some of the most iconic photographers in fashion history, she has crafted eye-catching looks for publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and even i-D.
10. Georgia Medley
Georgia is a London-based celebrity stylist. She has dressed people like Michaela Cole, Kelly Rowland, and Jada Pinkett Smith.
11. June Ambrose
June Ambrose is a highly regarded celebrity stylist, costume designer, and fashion influencer known for her innovative and bold approach to styling. She is the creative genius behind some of hip-hop’s most iconic looks, including Missy Elliott's "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)" and Jay-Z's "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)," among others.