Black Panther’s Lead Hairstylist Talks the Symbolism and Power Behind the Film’s Natural Styles

usmagazine.com:

There’s power in hair. Black Panther‘s lead beautician Camille Friend made it her mission to create an authentic and captivating depiction of African and Black American beauty.From Angela Bassett‘s changing crown and Lupita Nyong’o‘s new dreadlocks to Letitia Wright‘s braids, the film’s sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever — which hit theaters on Friday, November 11 — is filled with symbolic hair images that took a lot of research, dedication and respect.First and foremost, Friend wanted to pay homage. “We took inspiration from the Zulu tribe, the Masai tribe and the Senegalese Warriors,” she told Us Weekly exclusively ahead of the second installation’s release. “I always like to start with the traditional because that’s the basis.

That’s where everything comes from.”Secondly, Friend worked to highlight the versatility of Black hair. “The greatest thing about our hair is that you can do anything.

I always say wear your hair however you want. You want to wear it straight, do it. You want to wear a weave, do it. You want to wear a relaxer, go for it.

We have freedom.”She continued: “[Our hair] is ever evolving and when you see Wakanda Forever, that will be evident.”Wakanda Forever follows the leaders of the fictional country as they fight to protect their nation following the death of King T’Challa, who was portrayed by Chadwick Boseman in the first film.