Textured hair, let’s talk about it, besties. Because if you’ve ever worked on set as a hairstylist, makeup artist, or, honestly, anyone in beauty, you already know… textured hair has not always been handled with care. Sometimes it’s a lack of knowledge, and sometimes it’s a lack of concern.
That’s why events like Texture On Set hit different. I had the chance to attend again this year in Brooklyn’s Industry City, and as a hairstylist, makeup artist, and beauty editor, my heart was full the entire time. Not in a surface-level, “that was cute” kind of way. In a real, this is what the industry is supposed to look like kind of way.
From the moment you walk in, you can feel the energy, the intention, and the level of artistry. This event was way bigger than just showcasing hair. It honored hair as an art form and gave it the respect it deserves.
The Artistry Was On Another Level
Let me start with the obvious. The looks were flawless.
The makeup and wardrobe were stunning. Everything worked together in a way that felt well curated and elevated. But let’s be real, the star of the show was the incredible hair!
We’re talking about textured hair being styled, shaped, and presented at the highest level. No shortcuts, no confusion, no “we’ll figure it out backstage.” Just skill, preparation, and unbelievable craft.
As someone who has been in this industry for 15 years, I don’t take that lightly. I’ve seen the other side. I’ve seen the hesitation. I’ve seen the lack of education. I’ve seen what happens when artists are completely unprepared to work with textured hair.
This, on the other hand, was excellence.
It’s Bigger Than Hair
I really appreciate how Texture On Set has become a space for beauty professionals to build community. Created by renowned hairstylist Naeemah LaFond, this event is about innovation and advancing the industry. It reinforces that textured hair should be a standard, not an afterthought.
What I loved most was how the day was structured. It wasn’t just hair visuals. Although that would’ve been fine with me because I can look at beautiful hair all day. But there was education, history, and important conversations happening.
You could see the commitment crystal clear, not only from the artists but also from the brands in the room. Seeing companies like Olaplex, Pattern Beauty, Oribe, and The Doux show up and invest in this space says a lot. It’s one thing to market to textured hair consumers; it’s another thing to support education and show up where the work is actually happening.
The Expansion Matters
I attended last year, and one thing I really appreciated this time around was the expansion of the awards. They made space to celebrate even more Black creatives who are doing incredible work across the industry. They honored the people behind the scenes who don’t always get the recognition they deserve.
This industry runs on collaboration, so when you acknowledge the full ecosystem of talent, you’re celebrating everyone who made it happen.
And then came the crowd favorite. The five-minute fantasy hair competition. Watching Naeemah pass the torch to the next generation of up-and-coming hair artists was such a beautiful moment. The looks they created in just five minutes were unreal. It was a true showcase of talent, creativity, and the versatility of textured hair.
My Final Take
I really enjoyed the entire experience. And that’s not something I say lightly. This event felt special. And beyond necessary. It’s something the industry should have had a long time ago.
Naeemah should be so proud of what she’s built. She has created a moment that people look forward to, and more importantly, an event that celebrates and uplifts textured crowns.
And I’m not even going to lie, that gift bag? Insane. The most generous bag filled with hair goodies. I was literally skipping home. Can’t wait to see how this event evolves next year!
XOXO,
Your Beauty Bestie
