Texture on set: a revolution in runway representation takes root

For decades, textured hair has been relegated to the sidelines of the fashion industry – a footnote on set, a challenge on the runway, and a source of anxiety for models of color. But Naeemah LaFond is determined to change that, and her industry-disrupting event, Texture On Set, is sparking a much-needed conversation.

A long-overdue shift

LaFond’s vision, now in its third year, brought together over 300 professionals – from editorial teams and celebrity stylists to leading brands – for a day dedicated to celebrating and elevating textured hair. The event, presented by Olaplex and featuring sponsorships from Oribe, Pattern Beauty, and Dyson, wasn’t just about education; it was about building a community committed to fostering genuine equity within the Beauty landscape.

“I was consistently hearing and seeing from models about their bad experiences on set,” LaFond explained. “Having worked in the industry for so long, I knew it wasn’t equitable.”

The day unfolded with a series of powerful sessions. Jean Paul Dia, a curl specialist and Olaplex Global Ambassador, Christin Brown, led a tutorial focused on centering hair care in styling, emphasizing the humanity and resilience of the models. Later, Stacey Ciceron, an Oribe Global Ambassador, demonstrated the versatility of sleek, slick-back ponytails on textured hair, highlighting the importance of adapting techniques to the individual’s hair texture. Kai Tsehay’s presentation offered a crucial historical perspective, tracing the evolution of Black hair innovations from the 16th century to the present, revealing how hair has been both a tool of oppression and a symbol of resistance.

Chuck Amos, a legendary hair stylist behind iconic looks from Beyoncé’s ‘Dangerously In Love’ album cover, delivered a masterclass, demonstrating the enduring impact of Black hair artistry. The event culminated in the Texture On Set awards, recognizing Sondrea Demry, Ursula Stephens, and Itaysha Jordan for their pioneering work.

But the impact extends far beyond a single day. LaFond hopes this momentum will translate into tangible change – a more unified effort to address past transgressions, educate industry professionals, and actively champion equitable practices on set and within corporate structures. “We all need to come together to figure this out,” she stated. “It’s not about one brand or one person using their voice. It’s about all of us collectively, saying, ‘This has to change in the industry.’”

The figures speak for themselves: 300+ attendees, a growing community of advocates, and a shift in the industry’s narrative. Texture On Set isn’t just a show; it’s a foundation being built for a future where textured hair is no longer an afterthought, but a central, celebrated element of the fashion and Beauty world. And that’s a change worth fighting for.”n