by MIKE CHAIKEN
CTFashionMag.com
Talk to a Black person about natural hair, you’ll often come away with a story. And when it’s a story about how society-at-large views their hair, it’s not always a positive story.
In an article for Michigan State University Broad College of Business in Sept. 18, Chelsea Stein, noted, for instance, that studies show “Black women with natural hairstyles were considered less professional and less competent and received fewer recommendations for interviews when compared to Black women with straightened hair and white women with straight or curly hair.”
In Psychology Today on Dec. 12, 2023, Kevin Cokley, Ph. D., wrote about the impact of the politics of respectability regarding Black hair and how it impacted men at the workplace and in school. Cokley wrote, “Some Black folks and other marginalized communities embrace … a strategy to assimilate, gain the respect of the majority culture, and achieve social mobility… A few years ago the Dean of the Hampton University Business School banned dreadlocks (and cornrows) in the classroom on the basis that they have not historically been considered a professional look. The idea that a hairstyle which is such a prominent part of the cultural identity of Black people is ‘not professional’ is perhaps the quintessential example of respectability politics.”
For “Life in Color,” the annual fashion show staged by Chasity Aniece Productions to celebrate Black History Month in February, the organization has decided to put the fashion focus of the runway event on Black hair. And the show is intended celebrate the beauty of Black hair in its natural form.
The 2025 edition of the show, which will be held Feb. 2, is called “Hairstory.”
And Chasity Kennedy, a Black woman, said she has her own tale related to her relationship with her own natural hair.
“I do have my own story, just like I believe every Black and brown person does,” said Kennedy, a Bridgeport resident. “Growing up, I always had healthy, beautiful hair, but I often found myself wishing for long, straight, blonde hair like my classmates. I thought it would make life easier, being able to jump in the pool without needing braids or a swim cap– or skipping the hours-long process of getting my hair done. I longed for silk presses to mask my curls, trying to conform to what I thought was more acceptable or desirable.”
Kennedy continued, “It wasn’t until my second year of college that I truly began to embrace my hair and the beauty of its natural texture. I decided to do the big chop. I rocked a frohawk for a few years, and with each passing day, I felt more connected to and confident in my natural hair. Eventually, I began growing my hair out again, and now my Afro is flourishing, healthier and stronger than it has ever been.”
Kennedy said, “This journey has taught me so much about self-love, patience, and the importance of embracing who I am. My hair tells a story and I wear it now as a crown, a reflection of my roots and my growth.”
The decision to place the focus of the fashion show on Black hair was inspired by another fashion show in which Kennedy, who is also a model, took part in.
Although, she said, “There are countless reasons why I chose to highlight this topic (for Black History Month), my main inspiration stems from my first-ever experience modeling in a hair show in Virginia.”
Kennedy said, “That moment was transformative for me. Being surrounded by an incredible community of artists, stylists, and models who celebrated the beauty and versatility of Black hair was nothing short of magical. I was in awe of the creativity and innovation on display. The intricate braiding and the sculptural designs was all a testament to the endless possibilities of what we can achieve with our hair.”
After that show in Virginia, Kennedy said, “I realized hair isn’t just an accessory; it’s a form of self-expression, a connection to our roots, and a powerful statement of identity.”
Finding a theme for a show is one thing, but how does Kennedy intend to manifest “Hairstory” into a fashion event?
“You’ll have to be there to truly experience this production,” said Kennedy, who is currently running the models through rehearsals and providing inspiration briefs to designers. “What I can say is that every look, every walk, and every design is carefully crafted to weave a powerful narrative. The models, the designers, and even the energy in the room will work together to tell a story that celebrates our theme in a way you’ve never seen before.”
Kennedy said, “It’s not just a show, it’s an experience.”
Chasity Aniece Production’s founder said she hopes guests on Feb. 2 will be informed and inspired by the show.
“It’s about capturing attention with visuals, storytelling, and performances that entertain. It’s about informing the audience by shedding light on the history, culture, and significance of our theme in a way that sparks conversation and understanding,” Kennedy.
“Most importantly,” Kenney said, “(‘Hairstory’ is) about inspiring; leaving everyone in the room with a renewed sense of pride, curiosity, and appreciation for the artistry and stories being shared,” she said.
“Life in Color: Hairstory” will be held Sunday, Feb. 2. Doors open at 3 p.m. Showtime is 4 p.m. The show will be held at Orchid Hall, 245 Morse St., Hamden. For tickets, visit posh.vip/e/life-in-color-hairstory-fashion-show.
PHOTOS by MIKE CHAIKEN
Models for Chasity Aniece Productions recently took part in a fashion editorial shoot to promote “Hairstory” on Feb. 2.
