Black cinema has a powerful influence on our style choices, especially when it comes to hair. Iconic characters often set trends that ripple through culture, causing lasting impressions—think Janet Jackson’s box braids in Poetic Justice, or Angela Bassett’s sassy haircut in Waiting to Exhale. Black movie actors and actresses have a way of making certain fashions and hairstyles stand out, not only linking them to style and beauty but also confidence and identity. Whether it’s a swanky cut that symbolizes rebellion or a statement afro that evokes pride and power, what we see on screen often inspires us to mirror those looks and personas in real life.
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Iconic Black Hairstyles In Film We Love
Before Halle Bailey inspired little Black girls by flaunting locs while starring as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Brandy gave us microbraids swirled up in an elegant ‘do as Cinderella. And we can’t forget about Halle Berry’s short mushroom haircut, in the sexy 90s film Strictly Business, which had all the cool, “around-the-way girls” sporting the look. These flicks prove that Black Cinema doesn’t just reflect trends; it creates them, shaping how we express ourselves through our vernacular, clothes, hair, etc. From the afros in 70s Blaxploitation films to the braided and natural styles in more recent movies like Black Panther, these films have celebrated and spotlighted Black hair in powerful ways.
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Black characters on screen often reflect real-life culture and history, inspiring people to embrace their natural textures, try bold styles, or bring back classic looks with a modern twist. Whether it’s a smooth buss down wig with a middle part, an eye-catching updo, or intricate cornrows, Black movies have significantly influenced Black people’s overall being, especially regarding style and hair.
Keep reading to check out some of the most iconic Black movie hairstyles that have influenced an entire culture and will never get old.
Janet Jackson’s role as Justice in Poetic Justice was culture-shifting. Her character was relatable, and her classic style and box-braid hairdo were timeless statements that are still recreated today.
Aaliyah In ‘Romeo Must Die‘
Aaliyah’s swoop bang in Romeo Must Die was a hit! Immediately after the movie came out, the girls tried their best to recreate the stylish bang. From low ponytails to updos, the swoop added spunk to any hairstyle.
Angela Bassett In ‘Waiting to Exhale’
Angela Bassett’s transformational haircut in Waiting to Exhale shook the beauty industry. The cute pixie cut represented more than just a new ‘do; it represented transformation, new beginnings, and versatility.
Pam Grier In ‘Foxy Brown’
Pam Grier’s Afro in Foxy Brown wasn’t just a hairstyle but a powerful symbol of Black pride and rebellion that challenged Eurocentric beauty standards. It framed her as a fashion icon and a fearless force of justice, perfectly embodying the spirit of the 1970s Blaxploitation era.
Brandy In ‘Cinderella’
In the 1997 movie Cinderella, Brandy’s micro braids were more than just a style—they were a moment in representation. Seeing a Black princess with a distinctly Black hairstyle gave young Black girls a powerful image of beauty and royalty that looked like them.
Whitney Houston In ‘The Preacher’s Wife’
There are not many updos that can top the one Whitney Houston wore in The Preacher’s Wife. Her classic French roll was elegant and sophisticated, making the hairdo an instant hit with ladies all over.
Halle Berry And Natalie Desselle In ‘B.A.P.S.’
In B.A.P.S., Halle Berry and Natalie Desselle’s bold, over-the-top hairstyles broke boundaries and brought unapologetic Black creativity to the forefront. From towering updos to intricate curls and vibrant colors, their looks celebrated the artistry of Black hair culture. These styles not only influenced trends in the hair industry but also gave visibility to often overlooked beauty.
Nia Long In ‘Friday’
Nia Long’s character Debbie in the classic Black film ‘Friday’ was more than a love interest for leading man Craig (played by Ice Cube), she was a strong-minded character with an iconic hairstyle that became a 90s trend and timeless look.
Halle Berry In ‘Boomerang’
Halle Berry’s short cut deserves a list of its own. No one rocked it quite like Halle Berry. In 1992, beauty icon became the poster woman for the pixie, when she rocked the look in ‘Boomerang.’ Her girl-next-door demeanor and powerful depiction as an art-loving role model for the youth (and iconic slap) lives rent-free in our heads.
Halle Bailey In ‘The Little Mermaid’
Little Black girls everywhere saw themselves in Ariel, ‘The Little Mermaid,’ played by Halle Bailey. What made it more special, was Bailey’s depiction had long locs like the sister in real life. Bailey’s locs made headlines from fans and haters proving how influential her portrayal of the beloved character was.
