Whether it’s 1940s-era designers copying our Sunday church hats or Bo Derek rocking cornrows in “10,” Black women have always inspired the world with our effortless personal style. But throughout history, a handful of women have taken the “style muse” thing one step further, making a culture-altering impact on the business of global hair, beauty and skincare.
From Madame C.J. Walker to Naomi Sims, these powerful Black beauty pioneers have shaped the way we present ourselves to the world. In honor of Black History Month, we salute the top ten black beauty movers and shakers of all time.