The world of hairstyling is ever-evolving, and these five Black hairstylists have used their creativity and talent to grow their social media presence and influence the industry in a big way. Here’s to giving them their well-deserved flowers!

1. Tokyo Stylez

Tokyo Stylez has slayed the game, becoming one of the go-to hairstylists for celebrities like Cardi B and Kylie Jenner. Tokyo’s seamless wig creations and bold hairstyles keep her fans mesmerized and hungry for more.

2. Larry Sims

Celebrity hairstylist and the mastermind behind iconic looks for stars like Zendaya and Gabrielle Union, Larry Sims has built a strong online following. His unique style, coupled with his dynamic personality, has made him a true trendsetter.

3. Alonzo Arnold

Known for his larger-than-life wig creations and fearless styling, Alonzo Arnold has earned a massive following with his bold looks. He continues to push boundaries with his jaw-dropping transformations that always turn heads.

4. Ursula Stephen

The genius behind Rihanna’s iconic cuts and styles, Ursula Stephen is a powerhouse in the hairstyling world. Her precision and edgy styles have inspired countless fans, cementing her place as a trailblazer in the industry.

These stylists have not only transformed hair but have also used their platforms to empower and inspire their communities. Here’s to their continued success!

Alright, let’s take a trip down memory lane to those early 2000s black hair salons. You know what I’m talking about—the spot where laughter echoed, gossip flowed like the latest hair trends, and every visit was like a planned girlfriend bonding session.

First off, those salons weren’t just about getting your hair laid; they were our sanctuary, our safe space, where we could spill the tea on everything from our love lives to the latest celebrity drama. It was like therapy, but with a fresh set of braids or a killer weave!

Remember how the atmosphere was always buzzing with energy? The music blasting, magazines stacked up (but who really read ’em when the real drama was happening live?), and the stylists throwing shade while slaying your hair like it was their own personal masterpiece.

And the conversations? Honey, they covered EVERYTHING. From politics to who’s dating who in Hollywood, to that new dance move everyone was trying to perfect. You didn’t just leave with a new ‘do; you left with insider info on everything happening in the world.

But it wasn’t just about the talk; it was the community. Sisters coming together, supporting each other, sharing tips on hair care, makeup hacks, and life lessons. It was a vibe, a whole mood that you couldn’t get anywhere else.

Sure, times change, and now we’ve got apps and online forums, but let’s not front—there’s nothing quite like the vibe of an old-school black hair salon. It was our place to laugh, to cry (because edges were snatched and feelings were caught), and to come out feeling like a queen.

So, here’s to the memories of those days when the salon was more than just a place to get fleeky. It was where sisterhood thrived, where bonds were forged, and where we slayed both hair and life, one appointment at a time.

Written By: Lia Jones

Hype Hair was there to witness the labor of love that is Lace Land: Free Fest. Overnight the block was buzzing in anticipation for Lace Land 2023! The event, which is held yearly and put on by celebrity hairstylist Damienne Flagler, produces the biggest beauty-inspired giveaway we have ever seen. Participants were given free wigs, wig installs, makeup, hair tools, haircare and skincare products, food and drink, musical performances, and of course, a Hype Hair cover reveal. The beauty of Lace Land is how many Black-owned businesses had the opportunity to highlight their businesses in front of hundreds of guests.

Flagler explains that she hopes to expand the event to serve more people than she ever has before in 2024. When asked about the inspiration behind the event she went on to state that she saw such a huge need and she has been blessed to be able to assist and knew it was something she had to take on. Some of the biggest names in the beauty industry lent their time and talents to assist Flagler with pulling off the impressive impossible. For more information be sure to follow: IG @Damienne Flagler

Written by: Sabrina Peterson

In the glamorous world of Hollywood, there are individuals whose talent and creativity play a significant role in shaping the image of our favorite celebrities. One such artist is Tyler Johnson, a renowned celebrity hair stylist who has left an indelible mark on the industry with his exceptional skills and innovative approach to hairstyling. With his impeccable eye for detail and innate understanding of individual personalities, Johnson has become the go-to hairstylist for numerous A-list celebrities.

Tyler Johnson’s journey to becoming a hairstylist extraordinaire is as fascinating as the masterpieces he creates. Born and raised in a small town, Johnson discovered his passion for hair at a young age. Drawing inspiration from the beauty around him, he honed his skills through countless hours of practice and experimentation. Recognizing his talent, Johnson made the bold decision to pursue a career in the competitive world of celebrity hairstyling.

Johnson’s breakthrough came when he landed his first major gig as a hairstylist for Teyana Taylor. His innate ability to conceptualize unique hairstyles and execute them flawlessly caught the attention of industry insiders. Soon after, he found himself in high demand, working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood & Atlanta.

What sets Tyler Johnson apart from other hairstylists is his ability to create hairstyles that perfectly complement a celebrity’s individual style and personality. He approaches each client as a blank canvas, taking the time to understand their preferences, personality, and the message they want to convey through their hair. With this insight, Johnson then utilizes his artistic vision to create hairstyles that not only enhance their natural features but also push the boundaries of creativity.

Johnson’s portfolio is a testament to his versatility and creativity. From glamorous red carpet updos to edgy and daring avant-garde styles, he has showcased his mastery in a wide range of hairstyling techniques. Whether it’s crafting intricate wigs, creating voluminous waves, or sculpting sleek and sophisticated looks, Johnson’s attention to detail is evident in every strand.

One of the defining aspects of Tyler Johnson’s work is his ability to stay ahead of trends and bring fresh ideas to the table. He consistently pushes the boundaries of hairstyling, blending classic elegance with modern twists. Johnson’s creations have often become the talk of the town, setting new trends and inspiring countless individuals to experiment with their own hair. His stunning craft has been featured on many celebrities from Sukihana, Kamillion, the QC Label star Lakeyah, Asian Doll, Summer Walker, Leilani Capalot & more.

Beyond his talent and artistry, Johnson is known for his professionalism and warm demeanor. His clients often praise his ability to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, making them feel at ease during the hairstyling process. He is renowned for his ability to listen attentively to his clients’ desires and concerns, ensuring that their vision is brought to life.

In addition to his work with celebrities, Tyler Johnson is also dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring hairstylists. He conducts workshops and masterclasses, where he imparts his wisdom, techniques, and insights to the next generation of talent. His passion for mentoring and uplifting others is evident, as he continues to shape the future of the hairstyling industry.

Tyler Johnson’s impact on the world of celebrity hairstyling is undeniable. With his artistic prowess, ability to adapt to diverse styles, and commitment to his craft, he has elevated hairstyling to an art form. Whether it’s on the red carpet, in fashion magazines, or behind the scenes, Johnson’s innovative creations continue to captivate and inspire. As the go-to hairstylist for the stars, Tyler Johnson’s name is synonymous with excellence, and his work will undoubtedly leave an enduring legacy in the realm of hairstyling.