![Quantcast](http://pixel.quantserve.com/pixel/p-GS-HF4BKvzCmv.gif)
![We Need To Talk About 2000s Video Vixens' Influence On Pop Culture](https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8zMjM0NjY3OC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc0ODIxMDkxNn0.wDklhWaCkc2vbLtiKRBOEvTAnmD-Hx2QGX-OqpmUc9c/img.png?width=1200&height=600&quality=90&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C87)
We Need To Talk About 2000s Video Vixens' Influence On Pop Culture
The Y2K nostalgia cycle has been in full swing for quite some time now but something about it has been so decidedly…white. Online, most articles and fashion videos dedicated to Y2K feature people dressing like Megan Fox or Hilary Duff's Lizzie McGuire character. There’s the crimped hair and the gauchos and the butterfly clips.
But when I think of the early 2000s, my mind goes to Baby Phat, the velour tracksuits, the pink bedazzled phone cases, FUBU, and impossibly beautiful women dressed in scantily-clad outfits surrounded by some of the world’s biggest rappers and singers. For many Black women who were just merely girls in the late ‘90’s/early 2000s, our beauty idols were the women who appeared in music videos for artists like Jay-Z, 50 Cent, or LL Cool J — or as they’ve come to be known more succinctly as video vixens.
The 2000s Video Vixens Were Stars In Their Own Right
Models appearing in music videos were not new by any means but during this particular period in time, the women who appeared in the videos became icons in their own right. We know the names of Melyssa Ford, Claudia Jordan, Buffie Carruth who was known as Buffie the Body, Karrine Steffans (now Elisabeth Ovesen), and many others who first entered the spotlight with their show-stopping beauty.
A combination of factors made video vixens the subject of lust and envy. They were unquestionably sexy. More than that, however, video vixens possessed this quality of chicness that couldn’t be found in the pages of Vogue. A viewer’s gaze was permanently fixed on them as they danced or posed or simply existed in the video, like art to be marveled at. They were the kind of Black girls that were often shut out of mainstream modeling for being too thick, too dark, or too extra. They were in videos mixing Versace pieces with Rocawear. As a wise man once said, they were “ghetto with a runway quality.”
How 2000s Video Vixens Influenced a Generation
Fast forward to today, their influence on the culture is immeasurable. Just taking a quick survey at the current landscape of hip hop, the video vixens are now oftentimes the rappers. Girls like Saweetie, Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, and many others all possess the same glam and sex appeal qualities that video vixens did, while also being at the helm of creative control.
Even looking at the work of some photographers, I can see the clear through line from the video vixen era to today. Popular photographer Edwig Henson, who has worked with artists like rapper Ice Spice, Chloe Bailey, Latto, and more, has gained prominence for his work that evokes the aesthetics of King, the now-defunct magazine from the early 2000s that featured many of the vixens as a centerfold. His photography bridges the imagery of millennial and Gen Z online sensibilities with the sultry and sleek 2000s video vixen. Henson’s work leans into the hyperreal as it does the raunchiness, as his models are often portrayed as towering figures.
The 2000s Video Vixens Deserve Their Credit
Elsewhere one can find the preservation of the video vixen look with people like online pop culture archivist Bri Malandro who has dedicated her online presence to her endless love and devotion to all things ‘90s and 2000s Black culture. On her YouTube channel, she has a video specifically dedicated to breaking down her favorite vixens.
You can look everywhere and find the influence of video vixens from the door knocker earrings to the tiny tinted sunglasses to even the curves some women go under the knife to achieve. At the peak of their stardom, these women were derided by many people as being whores, bad influences on girls, and a poor reflection of what women should be. But today, they’ve been vindicated by many women for being the fashion icons they always were.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by screenshot from Nelly's "Hot in Herre" music video/ YouTube
- Here's Every Product That Will Be In The Aaliyah x MAC Collection ›
- Money Bag: Cardi B Strikes Gold Overnight With 'Invasion Of Privacy' ›
- Check Out These New Music Videos From Some Of Our Favorite Artists ›
- Lined Lips Or Pink Eyelids? I Tried 2 Throwback Fall Makeup Trends ›
- Elisabeth Ovesen Welcomes You To The Revolution ›
This article is sponsored by Hulu.
UnPrisonedhas returned for its highly anticipated second season, delving deeper into the complex dynamics of the Alexander family.
The series premiere comes a year after its debut season garnered rave reviews from fans and critics and earned record-breaking ratings for Hulu's Onyx Collective brand. UnPrisoned's success can be attributed to its raw, relatable themes and comedic appeal.
Inspired by creator Tracy McMillan's life, the show follows Paige (Kerry Washington), a therapist and single mother whose life takes an unexpected turn when her father, Edwin (Delroy Lindo) --who was released from prison-- moves in with her and her teenage son, Finn (Faly Rakotohavana).
Throughout UnPrisoned's first season, viewers witnessed how Edwin's incarceration deeply affected Paige's life and relationships. In the series, Paige unpacks her trauma through interactions with her inner child and her online followers. Meanwhile, Edwin is overcoming specific struggles with his own past that led to his life of crime, including a dysfunctional upbringing and his mother's arrest. As the Alexanders attempt to reconcile, new challenges arise.
This new season promises to further explore their unconventional family dynamic. Here are several compelling reasons why season two of UnPrisoned should be on everyone's watchlist.
The Alexander Family Life Is Still In Shambles
UnPrisoned's second season resumes where the series left off, with Paige grappling with the fallout from her troubled therapy practice and Edwin navigating life independently after moving out. Meanwhile, Finn faces his own challenges. The teenager is battling anxiety and seeking information about his father—a topic Paige avoids discussing.
The Alexander Family Are Attending Therapy To Resolve Their Underlying Issues
Amid the chaos in their lives, the Alexander family decides to mend their bond by confronting their past traumas. They seek professional help and attend therapy sessions with a “family radical healing coach,” played by John Stamos, a new cast member. This collective effort aims to unravel the complexities of their shared history and strengthen their relationships.
The process of unraveling each character's internal conflicts and their potential impact on future relationships may clash with Paige's textbook therapy approach. While Paige is used to being in the therapist's seat in both career and family, this forces her into the unfamiliar role of a patient during therapy sessions. This shift would compel her to look in the mirror and try a radically different approach.
The Alexander Family Learned A Big Lesson During A Therapy Session
In therapy, the Alexanders are tasked with addressing their individual traumas to salvage their remaining relationships. One of the family therapist’s eccentric suggestions was an exercise involving a family wrestling match. During this session, Paige faces tough questions about her refusal to share information about Finn's father.
While it's unclear whether this scene is reality or fantasy, the image of the family duking it out in the ring certainly makes for hilarious yet compelling television.
Paige Tries Dating Again Following Failed Relationships
Amid her life's chaos, Paige decides to step back into the dating field. However, her many attempts have left her with mixed results. The dating apps have turned out to be a fail, and an outing with her ex Mal (Marque Richardson), who is also her father's parole officer, doesn’t go quite as expected after he brings an unexpected guest – his new girlfriend.
The situation takes an awkward turn when Mal's new partner learns why the former couple split, partly due to Paige's self-sabotage.
UnPrisoned Is A Perfect Balance Of Comedy And Drama
As a dramedy, UnPrisoned takes a comedic approach to its heavy subjects. The show takes us on a ride with Paige's dating misadventures and navigating a friendship with her ex.
Other lighthearted moments include Edwin's attempts at CPR based on online videos and, of course, the antics of the Alexander family's unconventional new healing coach.
The second season of UnPrisoned is now available on Hulu.
UnPrisoned | Season 2 Trailer | Hulu
Feature image courtesy
Summer Travel Guide: 9 Safest Vacation Spots For Black Women
When it comes to planning and choosing our international travels, there’s one question that is bound to come up: “Is it safe for Black women?”
At times, our travel plans can be halted by whether or not our desired destination is safe not only for solo travel but for overall protection as women of color. We want to have fun, go on excursions, taste the food, and let our hair down, so the last thing we need on our minds is navigating microaggressions and worrying about our safety.
According to a report by The Mandala Research Firm, 17% of Black Americans take one or more international trips and travel locally more than six times per year. Even more exciting, 42% of Black Americans said they would spend more in 2020 on travel than in 2019 (pre-Covid), and 50% of Black adults (16% more than the general population) are more likely to travel to locations associated with their ethnic or cultural heritage. All of this goes to show that we’re not afraid to pack our bags and book flights to our heart's desire.
Our passion for travel and exploration highlights a growing desire to connect with a wide range of cultures while discovering new fresh locales. By choosing destinations with positive reputations for safety and belonging, you can enjoy your next adventure with peace of mind. And to help, we’ve provided a list of the best vacation spots to add to our travel bucket list.
1.Havana, Cuba
Known for its vibrant culture and welcoming locals, Havana offers a unique travel experience for you and your girlfriends. Stroll through the historic streets of Old Havana and immerse yourself in the lively music and dance scenes that make this city unforgettable.
2.Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Famous for its Carnival, stunning beaches, and warm hospitality, Rio de Janeiro is a lively and safe city to explore all year long. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and the bustling Copacabana Beach for a true taste of Rio's energetic spirit.
3.Belize
With its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and laid-back Caribbean vibe, Belize is a safe and adventurous destination for travelers. Discover the underwater wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef and explore ancient Lamanai Maya Ruins.
4.Paris, France
Who doesn’t have Paris, the city of lights, on their travel list? Renowned for its art, fashion, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Paris offers a blend of romance and safety for travelers. Wander through the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais, explore the Louvre, and indulge in the city's exquisite culinary delights.
5.Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal's capital city, Lisbon, charms visitors with its historic architecture, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle and savor traditional pastries at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
6.Bali, Indonesia
We’ve all seen the viral photos off the Bali coast and Gates of Heaven, so why not make it a reality? Famous for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene temples, Bali offers a safe and enriching travel experience in Southeast Asia.
7.Tokyo, Japan
Recently, the value of the Japanese Yen has seen a significant drop, making it the lowest it has been against the dollar since 1986, which also means that there’s no better time than now to make your travel plans to the renowned cultural hub.
8.Accra, Ghana
There’s no FOMO like the kind felt from seeing all the beautiful faces enjoying their holiday at Ghana’s Afrochella Festival, so let this be your sign to start planning the trip now. Often referred to as a welcoming home for the African diaspora, Ghana offers rich cultural experiences and a sense of belonging. Explore the vibrant markets of Accra and visit the historic Cape Coast Castle to connect with the nation's poignant past.
9.Seoul, South Korea
You may be surprised to find this city on the list, but for Black travelers, Seoul is said to be one of the safest and most exciting cities to travel to. There will be plenty to eat, buy, and experience from this city’s rich history and culture.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images