20 Natural Hair Icons to Elevate Your Curl Game
Ready to level up your curl journey? These 25 natural hair stylists are the ultimate gurus, transforming kinks, coils, and curls into works of art with innovative techniques and unmatched expertise. From Hollywood red carpets to local salons, they’re all about celebrating your unique texture with style, care, and confidence. Here’s the lowdown on their standout skills and what makes each one a curl game-changer!
1. Felicia Leatherwood: The Curl Queen to the Stars
Felicia Leatherwood is more than a hairstylist—she’s a textured-hair visionary who’s reshaped the way Hollywood sees natural beauty. With over 26 years in the industry, she’s styled the crowns of stars like Issa Rae, Jill Scott, Viola Davis, Ava DuVernay, and Will Smith. Dubbed the “Hair Whisperer,” Felicia is celebrated not only for her transformative red-carpet looks but also for her deep understanding of natural hair care. Her work has been featured in leading publications like Vogue, Essence, Ebony, and Variety.
Beyond the glam, Felicia empowers women globally through her “Loving Your Hair with Natural Care” workshops, helping them embrace their curls with confidence and compassion. Her game-changing Felicia Leatherwood Detangling Brush is a cult favorite for curly and coily textures—praised for its ability to glide through knots with minimal breakage. Felicia’s legacy isn’t just about styling hair—it’s about healing relationships with it, one curl at a time. Her motto: love your hair, and it’ll love you back.
2. Vernon François: Redefining Luxury Curl Care
Vernon François is more than a celebrity hairstylist — he’s a visionary in the natural hair industry, redefining what luxury means for textured hair. Born in the UK and self-taught from an early age, Vernon’s deep understanding of curls, coils, and waves set him apart in a world that often overlooked these textures. His hands have sculpted the hair of stars like Lupita Nyong’o, Serena Williams, and Amandla Stenberg, all while championing authenticity and hair confidence.
What makes Vernon exceptional is his holistic approach — blending artistry with education. His award-winning VERNON FRANÇOIS® product line was created specifically for textured hair, offering high-performance, inclusive care without compromise. Vernon’s mission is rooted in empowerment, making curl education accessible to everyone. Through workshops, product development, and red-carpet transformations, he continues to elevate textured hair into the realm of luxury and pride, proving that curls are not only beautiful — they’re couture.
3. Kim Kimble: Hollywood’s Curl Trailblazer
Kimberly “Kim” Kimble is a third‑generation stylist whose visionary curl work has made her a go‑to hairstylist for Beyoncé, Zendaya, Mary J. Blige, Shakira, Oprah, and more. Her journey from shampoo girl in her mother’s salon to working on the cult film B.A.P.S. (1997) launched her into the entertainment world, where she styled show‑stopping looks for TV series and films like Moesha, The Jamie Foxx Show, Dreamgirls, and Lemonade.
In 2012, Kimble debuted on WE tv’s reality series L.A. Hair, sharing her salon life and passion for curl education over five seasons. She later became head of the hair department on HBO’s Euphoria, earning Emmy nominations for her narrative-driven styling. Through her brand Kimble Beauty and a collaboration wig line with HairUWear, she’s made her signature curldefinition and protective styling accessible to everyday consumers. With three decades of celebrity credentials and innovative products, Kim Kimble continues to define Hollywood glam with texture-forward elegance and education.
4. Yene Damtew: From D.C. to Your Curl Routine
Stylist and entrepreneur Yene Damtew is best known as the personal hairstylist to former First Lady Michelle Obama, crafting iconic looks like her bouncy curls at the 2021 inauguration and natural texture features on Essence and Elle covers. A California native, Yene began braiding hair in her neighborhood as a teenager, then pursued formal training at Cerritos Cosmetology School before moving to Washington, D.C. to work alongside celebrity stylist Johnny Wright in 2009.
Today, Yene runs Aesthetics Salon in Arlington, VA, where she combines luxury styling with science-based hair care and community-driven client experiences. Her philosophy—“Good hair is healthy hair”—emphasizes proper hydration, consistent trimming, and education so her clients feel empowered to care for their own texture every day. She also mentors aspiring stylists through The Academy by Yene Damtew, a 12-week program blending business strategy and hands-on expertise to support next-gen professionals.
5. Nai’vasha: Sculpting Show-Stopping Curls
Nai’vasha Grace—celebrity hairstylist and founder of Curl Queen by Nai’vasha Intl—is acclaimed as the “Curl Queen” for her red carpet-ready artistry and curl-centric philosophy. A Memphis native turned global stylist, she has shaped hair for icons like Tracee Ellis Ross, Alicia Keys, Yara Shahidi, Lupita Nyong’o, and Simone Biles. Nai’vasha blends technical precision with texture respect, creating voluminous afro buns, sleek braided looks, or defined curls that celebrate each client’s unique personality and curl pattern.
In 2018 she launched Curl Queen, a haircare line born from her daughter’s scalp needs, built around hydration, botanical ingredients, and user-friendly tools like the signature “Glove”—designed for detangling and scalp massage during wash day . Nai’vasha’s philosophy centers on moisture, nourishing routines, and curl education: her message? Moisturize, protect, and define. From commercial campaigns to Wash Day rituals, she’s transforming natural hair care with intention, sensitivity, and undeniable curl magic.
6. Ursula Stephen: Your Texture’s Best Friend
A Brooklyn-born curl expert who has spent over 25 years transforming textured hair with compassion and craft. Ursula owns and runs ‘Ursula Stephen, The Salon’ in Brooklyn and serves as Living Proof’s curl artist-in-residence, helping shape their inclusive Curl Line from conception to launch. Her work has graced the likes of Rihanna, Zendaya, Kerry Washington, and Mary J. Blige, and she’s renowned for redefining how textured hair is styled, cared for, and celebrated in editorial, red carpet, and everyday settings.
Ursula’s signature philosophy centers on hydration, proper cleansing, and the right tools. She insists on sulfate-free shampoos used in tandem for buildup removal and softness, followed by nourishing conditioners and leave-ins to restore moisture—especially important for naturally drier textures. She’s also a trusted voice on trim maintenance, curl-by-curl cutting, and DIY shaping during wash days. Ursula swears by accessory kits built to honor curl types and her famous “#UrsieOnHair™️” tips—such as moisturizing massage, gentle styling, and low manipulation—to ensure each tress thrives.
Whether working backstage at fashion week or building better at-home habits, Ursula Stephen remains the go-to stylist for curl confidence, texture education, and sustainable haircare that feels good at every level.
7. Monaè Everett: Curl Education for All
Monaè Everett is a trailblazing celebrity hairstylist, licensed stylist, and American Board Certified Haircolorist with over two decades of experience styling diverse curl textures across film, television, print, and New York Fashion Week. Her high-profile clientele includes Mariah Carey, Taraji P. Henson, Yara Shahidi, and others, which has earned her global recognition as a texture expert. Beyond salon work, she passionately advocates for inclusivity and representation in beauty, believing stylists should master all four hair textures, not only those that resemble their own.
In 2018, Monaè founded The Monaè Life Academy, a professional training platform dedicated to textured-hair education and equitable representation in the hair industry. In 2021, she launched the Texture Style Awards, a global competition celebrating artistry across straight, wavy, curly, and coily/kinky hair—designed to elevate diversity and push stylists beyond comfort zones. Her workshops, look-and-learn series, and DEI speaking engagements transform hair education into accessible tools for creativity, career growth, and cultural change.
8. Whitney Eaddy: Healing Hair, One Curl at a Time
Whitney Eaddy—affectionately known as “The Growth Guru”—has spent nearly two decades transforming natural hair care into a journey of growth, self-love, and empowerment. Her nickname stems from her legendary “growing hands” technique that has helped clients around the globe retain length and restore hair vitality. After her own big chop in 2002, Whitney committed to reshaping beauty standards, understanding textured hair scientifically, and guiding women to embrace their true crown with dignity and care.
Her signature methodology—Her Growing Hands—is built on five pillars: lightweight products, personalized philosophy, intentional process, technique, and healthy tools . Through her brand, Juices & Botanics, and her product lines like NaturalU and Silken Luxury, Whitney offers hydration-focused solutions, encouraging low‑tension protective styles and educating clients that oil isn’t a moisturizer—it’s a sealant, and hydration starts with H₂O.
9. Diane Da Costa: The Original Curl Boss
With over three decades of experience, Diane Da Costa stands as a true pioneer in the world of textured hair care. Author of Textured Tresses (Simon & Schuster, 2004), she established herself as the go-to expert for curlies around the globe. As CEO and founder of SimpleeBEAUTIFUL™ and the CurlyTexturedBAR salon in Harlem, Diane has shaped industry expectations for multi-textured hair through her eco-conscious boutique, professional education, and cutting-edge styling techniques.
Her influence extends far beyond her own salon chair. Diane played key roles in authoring educational resources such as the Milady Standard Natural Hair Care & Braiding and Cosmetology textbooks, and led the Cutting Curly Textured Hair DVD series by Milady. She’s consulted with major brands like Mizani, Carol’s Daughter, Aveda, and Phyto Specific, and has collaborated on textured hair certification programs, including TRESemmé’s 2022 training initiative . Diane firmly believes that texture is not just hair—it’s a lifestyle, advocacy, and celebration of identity and artistry.
10. Tippi Shorter: Coils That Steal the Show
Meet Tippi Shorter: Coils That Steal the Show, an influential curl expert whose signature artistry blends bold creativity with textured-hair mastery. As Mizani’s Global Artistic Director for Textured Hair and a L’Oréal Professionnel color artist, Tippi has styled icons like Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Rowland, and Lady Gaga . She’s revered for her precision Mizani Air Cut technique, which follows curl pattern and shrinkage to sculpt volume and shape perfect coil definition.
Beyond salons, Tippi co-founded The Texpert Collective, a trailblazing education platform dedicated to making textured-hair styling industry standard—not an afterthought . She speaks passionately about inclusivity in cosmetology education, the importance of confident curl consultations, and sustainable styling rooted in hydration and respect for texture. In her hands, coils don’t just bounce—they command attention.
11. Shai Amiel: The Curl Specialist
Shai Amiel—widely revered as The Curl Doctor—is the co‑ower of Capella Salon in Studio City, California, and a globally respected expert in textured hair care. With a cosmetology license earned in 1994, Shai developed a passion for curls after discovering that conditioner left in and air-dried produced stunning natural wave patterns. He has since established a signature curl‑by‑curl dry-cut technique—trimming each ringlet individually—to honor curl shrinkage and unique spring factor, resulting in precision shapes that retain health and bounce.
Shai’s philosophy is built on hydration, minimal heat, and respect for the natural curl pattern. He warns against oils on wet hair, advocates regular trims every three to five months, and teaches clients that moisture—not buildup—is the foundation of true curl health. Trusted by celebrities, influencers, and transitioners alike, the Curl Doctor continues to transform curls with scientific care, artistic cuts, and honest education.
12. Angela Styles: Glam Meets Natural Vibes
Meet Angela C. Styles, the Emmy Award‑winning hairstylist who effortlessly blends glamour with natural-texture expertise. A Chicago native turned celebrated stylist and author, Angela’s signature style bridges salon-level sophistication with curl‑care authenticity. She built her career on transforming textured hair for celebrities such as Beyoncé, Keke Palmer, and Rita Ora, all while maintaining a strong commitment to hair health and longevity. Her popular Cantu “Protective Styles” line—crafted with ingredients like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and marula—reflects her passion for practical, protective care without buildup.
Beyond her styling expertise, Angela is an educator, children’s book author (Hair), and beauty brand consultant. She leverages her platform—Pretty Curls Club—to uplift diverse voices and demystify textured hair care from a wellness-first lens. Whether through televised appearances, workshops, or personalized consultations, Angela champions self-confidence grounded in embracing one’s natural curl texture with intentionality and elegance. Her work proves you can have both glam and real curls, without compromise.
13. Tameeka McNeil-Johnson: NYC’s Curl Magician
Tameeka McNeil-Johnson, widely known as The Curl Whisperer, is a legendary figure in New York City’s natural hair scene. As a master curl stylist and educator, she’s helped thousands of women embrace their natural texture with confidence. Tameeka’s approach is rooted in hair health, curl science, and emotional transformation. Her signature “Hydration Therapy Treatment” restores moisture balance, enhances curl definition, and transforms dull curls into vibrant, bouncy coils. Her salon, Jaded Tresses, is a safe space for curlies of all ages and textures.
Beyond styling, Tameeka is deeply passionate about educating both clients and professionals. She leads hands-on workshops, virtual training, and speaking engagements that break down textured hair care into approachable steps. Her mission goes beyond beauty—it’s about self-love, identity, and reclaiming ownership of one’s natural hair journey. In a world of curl confusion, Tameeka offers clarity, compassion, and undeniable curl magic that keeps NYC talking.
14. Aeleise & Aishia of Black Girl Curls: The Dynamic Duo
Aeleise Ollarvia and Aishia Strickland—co-founders of Black Girl Curls—are the game-changing duo transforming natural hair care for Black women. Based in Chicago, these licensed curl specialists created the #30DayHairDetox, a movement urging naturals to ditch raw oils, butters, co-washing, and complicated routines. Instead, they advocate a simple, science-backed method: shampoo, condition, and style.
Their platform, Black Curl Magic, offers educational resources like the Wash Your Damn Hair guide, stylist workshops, and a supportive digital community. With bold honesty and salon-grade theory, Aeleise and Aishia empower women to embrace their curls with clarity and confidence. Their mission is not just haircare—it’s cultural healing through simplicity, consistency, and hydration. Together, they’ve become trusted voices in dismantling hair myths and promoting true curl freedom rooted in facts, not fads.
15. Susy Oludele: Braided Beauty Royalty
Susy Oludele, often celebrated as the “Braided Beauty Royalty,” is a visionary hairstylist whose intricate braids and innovative protective styles have redefined hair artistry across the globe. Drawing deep inspiration from her Nigerian roots and Yoruba culture, Susy’s creative techniques—think bold braids, colorful beads, and masterfully parted designs—aren’t just about looking fabulous, but elevating hair into wearable art. Her craft radiates through celebrity crowns, notably shaping iconic looks for artists like Beyoncé, Solange, Zoë Kravitz, and Megan Thee Stallion.
Susy’s journey began with braiding dolls as a child and blossomed into opening her first “Hair By Susy” salon in Brooklyn, followed by a Los Angeles outpost, establishing havens for textured hair lovers. More than a stylist, she’s a community builder, offering mentorship and safe spaces where beauty is spiritual and transformative. Each style by Susy is a statement of pride, creativity, and Black excellence, earning her true royalty status in the world of braids and beyond.
16. Jamila Powell: Curls with a Side of Swagger
Jamila Powell is making waves in the natural hair world as a unique force of style, confidence, and innovation. As the founder of Maggie Rose Salon and the beloved natural hair brand Naturally Drenched, Jamila’s vision puts curly hair at center stage with a blend of artistry and individual expression. Her approach to hair isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about self-celebration and empowerment.
Jamila stands out for her commitment to healthy, vibrant curls that radiate personality. Her styling focuses on enhancing each person’s unique curl pattern, playing up volume, definition, and a bold touch that brings out her clients’ “swagger.” Whether it’s ultra-defined ringlets or big, bouncy curls, her expertise ensures every head of hair reflects the wearer’s individuality.
Beyond styling, Jamila’s products are designed to rejuvenate and hydrate curls using clean, nourishing ingredients, making them favorites for those who want to embrace their hair’s natural beauty. Her Instagram and salon chair alike are filled with vibrant transformations—proof that with the right care and a bit of attitude, curls are a crowning glory.
Jamila Powell is redefining what it means to have textured hair, inspiring her clients to rock their authentic curls with style and unmatched confidence.
17. Janae Mason (Nae2Curly): From Insta to IRL Curls
Janae Mason, popularly known as Nae2Curly, is a vibrant influencer and curly hair advocate who has successfully transitioned her passion for natural curls from Instagram to real life. With a large and engaged following, Janae shares her journey of embracing and caring for her natural hair, providing tips, tutorials, and product recommendations to help others love their curls confidently.
Starting as a social media presence, Nae2Curly has become a trusted voice in the natural hair community, empowering people with wavy, curly, and coily textures to celebrate their unique beauty. Her authentic content emphasizes self-love, hair health, and the importance of embracing one’s natural look without conforming to traditional beauty standards.
Janae’s story reflects the modern wave of influencers who use social media platforms as a launchpad to inspire and educate a wider audience about natural hair care, turning virtual support into real-life confidence and community.
18. Anthony Dickey: Building Your Curl Empire
Anthony Dickey, professionally known as Dickey, is a renowned American hairstylist celebrated for his expertise in all hair textures, especially wavy, curly, and kinky hair. He is the co-founder of Hair Rules New York, the first multi-textural salon in the United States. Born biracial in Seattle during the Civil Rights era, Dickey’s early experiences with race and identity deeply influenced his career path and his commitment to inclusivity in beauty.
Dickey has styled numerous celebrities, including Rihanna, Michelle Obama, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Solange. Over his 30+ year career, he has contributed to major fashion publications like Vogue, Essence, and Vanity Fair. He authored the book “Hair Rules! The Ultimate Hair Care Guide for Women with Kinky, Curly, or Wavy Hair” and launched the Hair Rules product line and salon to address the needs of all hair textures under one roof.
His work pioneers a more inclusive beauty standard and empowers people to embrace their natural hair texture with confidence and pride
19. Lacy Redway: Braiding Brilliance for the Stars
Lacy Redway is a trailblazing celebrity hairstylist known for her intricate braids and red-carpet creativity. Born in Jamaica and raised in the U.S., she began styling hair at just 11 and quickly found herself assisting icons like Guido Palau. Today, she styles major stars like Tessa Thompson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Alicia Keys. Redway’s work stands out for celebrating texture and culture, blending high-fashion elegance with deeply rooted traditions.
From Met Gala looks like Tessa Thompson’s braided cowboy hat to sculptural coils for magazine covers, her creations redefine how textured hair is seen in Hollywood. She champions inclusivity through her work and advocacy, co-founding the Black Fashion & Beauty Collective to uplift Black creatives in the industry. Lacy’s signature touch goes beyond style—it’s a form of storytelling, empowerment, and cultural pride. Her artistry continues to inspire a new era of beauty that honors every curl and braid.
20. Mona Baltazar: The Mona Cut Maven
Mona Baltazar, a visionary curl expert based in New York City, has redefined the way natural curls are cut through her signature technique known as “The Mona Cut.” This method embraces curls in their dry, natural state and uses intentional, sculpted geometry to highlight individual texture and shape. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology and a stylist with over two decades of experience, Mona treats every haircut like an art form.
She’s also the founder of The Mona Cut Academy™, where she trains stylists in her unique curl-cutting philosophy. Through structured, icon-based shapes like Da Logo, Da Calla, and Da Jayd, she teaches how to cut for movement, density, and curl behavior. Mona’s commitment to celebrating texture and creating visual harmony has made her a leading figure in curl education. Her work empowers both clients and stylists to embrace curls with confidence and creativity.
There you go, curlfriend! These 20 stylists are transforming curls with their innovative techniques and unique vibes. Each one brings something special to the table, from red-carpet braids to wellness-focused cuts. Want to tweak anything or add more details? Just let me know!
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