This past Monday, I was lucky enough to attend Texture on Set, an event that wasn’t just about hairstyling but about education, representation, and fundamental change in the industry. The energy in the room was electric, with top-tier stylists like Tabatha Coffey, Chuckie Amos, and Vernon François in attendance. The event was backed by brands including Oribe, Ulta, and L’Oréal, all supporting the assurance that textured hair is understood, respected, and celebrated.
Celebrity stylist Naeemah LaFond is leading the charge. She’s the definition of innovation, blending art, culture, and technique to push textured hair to the forefront. For Naeemah, hairstyling isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling.
Naeemah says, “I think about the energy I want to convey. I’m inspired by culture, art, movement, and the limitless versatility of textured hair.” From bold editorial creations to effortlessly chic runway styles, she perfectly balances technical precision and creative freedom.
Having collaborated with designers like Christopher John Rogers and Fe Noel, Naeemah knows how to transform a designer’s vision into something unforgettable. “It’s all about trust. I interpret their vision to enhance the story while staying true to my aesthetic,” LaFond says. Her signature shapes, molds, and elevates texture in ways that turn heads.
Growing up in Brooklyn with Haitian roots, Naeemah always understood hair as a form of identity and pride. “Haitian culture is rich in resilience and artistry. Brooklyn exposed me to so many styles and expressions. I grew up seeing hair as a form of identity, which shapes everything I do”, LaFond shares. Now, she used that influence to push textured hair into the luxurious space that it belongs.
Naeemah created Texture on Set because the industry wasn’t doing enough. She explains that “the lack of education and representation for textured hair has been a long-standing issue. Texture on Set is about real change—ensuring all stylists can handle all hair types confidently.” And she’s right—too many Black models still struggle to find hairstylists who understand their hair.
Naeemah believes that brands need to be proactive about ensuring. Their artists can work with all textures. She emphasizes that “brands need to move beyond performative gestures. That means hiring and promoting hairstylists skilled in all textures and making education a non-negotiable.” Some progress is being made, but actual change means including textured hair isn’t just a trend—it should be the standard. LaFond says, “every hairstylist should be expected to master all textures. Brands need to invest in education and diverse hiring.”
For up-and-coming hairstylists, Naeemah keeps it real: perfect your craft, network with intention, find mentors who believe in your talent, and stay authentic—your unique perspective is your superpower. Her final words? “Do the work with integrity, lead with purpose, and never underestimate the power of representation.” And that’s precisely what she’s doing. The future of textured hair is here, thanks to artists like Naeemah ensuring it stays.
XOXO,
Your Beauty Bestie
