This was never more evident than this past weekend as an overabundance of creatives of color took over Duggal Greenhouse in Brooklyn for the latest installment of the pivotal summit. 3,500 attendees and 100 speakers across 25 panels to be exact. NYC was the last stop on their 2022 tour, as they have already set Atlanta and Los Angeles ablaze with the innovative energy of The Creative Collective NYC, a creative agency immersed in culture, dedicated to facilitating brave spaces for multicultural creatives. Ellis told xoNecole, “I'm really in awe today. I feel like I'm walking in a dream because I did see this in my head. So then, to see it in real life is a little surreal.”
The founder went on to say, “The best part is the people and the community, and I think we always wanted it to feel like a homecoming. And I feel like even for guests who have never been, it feels like even they're coming back to a homecoming, which is like the best thing you could ask for.”
Whether you attended a predominantly white institution, a historically Black college or university, or didn’t go to college at all, there was a space for everyone. And when I say it was like a homecoming we all dream of, I mean that.
Courtesy of Joce Blake
Activation Alley housed both Instagrammable and teachable moments. From LinkedIn’s multicolored stations empowering creatives to “Trust the Journey” and Instagram’s activation highlighting the next generation of Fashion Innovators to Onyx Collective’s nostalgic experience surrounding the Black hair experience, the activations panned the creative diaspora.
It was the perfect opportunity to connect with other creatives when you weren’t soaking up gems from the panels.
Some of those star-studded panels we enjoyed included:
Photo Courtesy of CULTURECON
Creative Genius: Lena Waithe
NYT Bestselling Author and previous Teen Vogue Editor-In-Chief, Elaine Welteroth and Emmy award-winning actress, producer, and screenwriter, Lena Waithe took to the Culture Stage to discuss how Waithe got her start, the difference between community and company, and the power of representation. Waithe recalled watching Halle Berry win her first Oscar when she shared, “I was in my room watching that by myself, emotional as hell. And it’s not lost on me that I fast-forward and I have a first at the Emmys for the Thanksgiving episode. And I’m really grateful for that because I can see the straight line from me sitting in my room watching Halle win.”
While The Chi creator is proud of what she’s invested in her craft, she said it’s the community that has lifted her up. “Community is a give and take. Company, you feel drained when it leaves, and with community, you feel full once they’re gone,” Waithe said.
Plugged[in] From Viral to Visionary
LinkedIn hosted a thoughtful conversation with everyone’s multi-hyphenated mom Tabitha Brown, the elite and funny social media star DeAndre Brown, and Erin Ceaser around the realities of being a successful multi-hyphenate while remaining grounded and authentic. It was very on-brand for the panelists and LinkedIn. The biggest nugget: consistency is the key to success, be it your 9 to 5 or your social media platform.
Creative Genius: Taraji P. Henson
In an unfiltered conversation with beauty and style expert, Blake Newby and TV host and producer, Speedy Morman, the oh-so-iconic, Taraji P. Henson dropped some gems. The Golden Globe-winning actress made sure to tell the audience, “For all the filmmakers and writers and up-and-coming producers and directors, we must tell our stories. It’s so important.”
The D.C. native also shared, “I hate sitting around waiting for someone to give me something, so I create my own doors to open and bring people through.” This was a theme throughout the day which spoke to CULTURECON’s reminder to all creatives to not only take up spaces but to own them.
Onyx Collective Presents: In Conversation with Tracee Ellis Ross
Lalea Raymond/CULTURECON
Everything's Trash star, Phoebe Robinson sat down with award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur, Tracee Ellis Ross to discuss Onyx Collective’s newest series, The Hair Tales. The intentional docuseries highlights the journey Black women have with their hair and how it leads to self-love. They also spoke about the power of storytelling and living in your whole truth.
Ross said, “As Black people, I feel that we are so often sold a lie about who we are, and I hope that Hair Tales joins the chorus of people who are poking holes in that lie, dispelling that lie and that we as Black people and Black women get to see ourselves and fall even more in love with who we are by watching this series.”
Prime Time: A Conversation on Claiming Space in TV
Host, writer and producer, Danielle Young moderated a fun conversation with actress extraordinaire, Meagan Good, actor and activist Kendrick Sampson, and executive producer, Jamal Henderson about their journeys in the television industry. Good shared, “When I have those days that are really tough, it really is about perspective. At the end of the day, this is a day in my life that I will never get back, so I have to choose to be intentional about this being the best day that it can be.”
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Featured image courtesy of CULTURECON
To understand how we can fully show up this season, we consulted Marjorie Lightford because of her versatile skill set, creative vision, and amazing ability to transform hair. “Trends have a unique way of connecting people and creating a historical timeline for popular culture. For that reason and so many more, trends are necessary,” says Marjorie, master stylist and Redken Certified colorist.
Her motto is “Look good. Feel good. Do well,” and she believes she has a responsibility as a hairstylist to cultivate the internal beauty of her clients into a beautiful outward display. Her upbeat and open-minded personality coupled with her dedication to her clients and her craft sets her apart from most and continues to make her a well-sought-after hairstylist.
The stylist told xoNecole, “Trends are not one size fits all. I recommend finding your own aesthetic and uniquely incorporating trends into your personal style. This provides you with a customized look suited just for you that is still current and trendy.”
Ahead, Marjorie provides the fall hair inspiration sure to bring you joy!
Protective Style Trends for Fall 2022
Courtesy of Marjorie Lightford
1. Knotless braids with tousled, loose hair incorporated throughout the braids.
"There is a beautiful merge happening between braids and loose hair that provides protection, low tension, and volume. Knotless braids became popular because, essentially, they "saved our edges." On the contrary, the style did not maintain its freshness for as long as traditional box braids, micro braids, etc. Additionally, knotless braids lacked volume.
"The introduction of weaving loose hairs throughout random braids has not only eliminated that problem but also created a new era. This new look ages beautifully has volume, creates lots of dimension, and is point blank...sexy."
2. Feed-in cornrows with unique designs.
"Cornrows have and will always be great protection for our hair. The goal is to do it in a way that does not provide tension around the edges. Feed-in cornrows are great for that. Cornrows with unique designs are definitely making a comeback."
3. Sew-ins.
"While there are all kinds of new, loose hair extension techniques when it comes to protection, sew-ins are the only option. Other techniques leave the natural hair exposed while sew-ins braid the natural hair and attach wefts using the sewing technique. The beautiful thing about sew-ins is that these can be worn significantly longer than other protective styles before the look has to be redone."
Tip: Use nylon thread with your sew-ins. Traditional wool thread can create breakage at the root.
Favorite Hair Products for Fall 2022
Courtesy of Marjorie Lightford
1. Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Overnight Hair Serum
"This is an anti-frizz, overnight serum for dry hair. Hair is typically the driest between midnight and 6 a.m.; as we move into the fall, the temperatures outside will begin to drop. Hair will naturally become even drier as we crank up the heat in our residences." Marjorie adds that "using an overnight hair serum will soften and nourish the hair from mid-length to end and improve manageability for advanced night care."
2. Kérastase Sérum Thérapiste Hair Serum
"I love this product. It is an absolute must-have for all my clients. This serum repairs hair fibers and is also a heat protectant for up to 450°F. I have my clients use this every morning and night. It's essentially a cuticle sealer and helps to retain the length of your hair."
3. The Felicia Leatherwood Detangling Brush
"This Black-owned brush is the brush that every curly head of hair needs, not just for the fall but year-round. Detangling hair with this brush is easier and more efficient. Its firm, yet flexible technology allows you to detangle from root to ends truly. It is nearly indestructible."
The Best Hair Colors for Black Women in Fall 2022
Courtesy of Marjorie Lightford
1. Diffused blondes
"The hair color industry has been shifting for several years. People are wanting to come into the salon less and have a more blended grow-out. Within the melanated community, I find that we are choosing colors that blend better with our natural hair color or are choosing colors that are multi-dimensional.
"I truly believe anybody can wear blonde and when diffused throughout as opposed to applied all over. It really softens the entire look and is less of a contrast. It photographs beautifully and looks great in person too."
2. Warm browns
"I love a golden brown moment on melanated skin. It's our version of 'nude'. Golden Brooks wore it well on Girlfriends years ago, and it has definitely made a comeback. I hope it's here to stay."
3. Mauve and rose gold
"These colors typically look great on melanated skin because they compliment the gold and olive often found in our undertones. And while they are a little high maintenance because they fade fast, if you cannot get a touch-up often, they do fade to a beautiful medium to dark blonde. Essentially, you get two looks for the price of one."
The Trending Haircuts to Try for Fall 2022
Courtesy of Marjorie Lightford
1. Bob
"Always try a bob. It's like adding high heels to the hair and can be dressed up or down."
2. Curtain bangs
"They're versatile; long enough to be side swept or pulled back but also add softness around the face. I love pairing curtain bangs with a top knot."
3. Mullet
Marjorie notes that the mullet is "definitely an acquired taste and not for every head shape," but adds, "if you are edgy, consider letting the hair grow out in the back to give your hair a unique shape."
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Featured image by Jena Ardell/Getty Images
We had to hit up our good sis, Melissa Samuel, the owner of FinesseYourClaws, to really understand the assignment for the upcoming season. The London native has always had a passion for art and started nail artistry over a decade ago. After moving to New York, Melissa was inspired by the culture, street style, and fashion. Like the artist she is, she cultivated her own nail style, matching different prints, textures and hardware.
From campaigns with Moschino, Brandon Blackwood, MCM, and more, she’s proven to be THAT nail girl. She also has a celebrity clientele that includes SZA, Justine Skye, and Lil Yachty.
“The thing I love most about being a nail artist is getting to create every day. Whether a client provides inspiration or not, I design nails for them, inspired by them,” Melissa tells xoNecole. “Each set is unique and different, one of one. I'm fortunate to have an eclectic group of clients that allow me to push the envelope daily, it's my passion and I love it!”
Craving some nail inspo for fall? Keep scrolling!
Get Ready for Fall With These Nail Trends:
1. Prints
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
“Fall nails are often inspired by Fashion Week, where prints are prevalent. Think tweed, plaid, monochrome," Melissa explains.
2. Texture
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
“3D nails add dimension to a blank canvas; as color becomes more muted, the texture still gives it a stylish edge.”
3. Chrome
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
“Metallic nails will definitely be trending for fall, fashion is having a futuristic wave. Think Balenciaga and Schiaparelli, silver and gold finishes.”
4. Hardware
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
“Gems and jewels make great accent nails, and adornments with prints really pop," Melissa says. "They can be bigger if you're flashy or smaller for a more elegant look.”
5. Matte Nails
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
Melissa says that matte nails are "always chic and a great way to mute bright colors. By removing the gloss, it really makes bold prints pop.”
6. Coffin Nails
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
“Coffin nails are also very chic," Melissa tells us. "The tapered tip stops them from being obnoxious even if they're long and over the top. This shape elongates the fingers, making them more elegant.”
7. Square Nails
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
“The square shape is popular, whether long or short. It provides more of a canvas for art and makes a bold statement. This is for the 'it' girls, very NYC!”
For anyone struggling with nail art ideas, Melissa’s advice is simple: Don't overthink it. “Do what feels natural and authentic for you. Even if you start with a dot on each nail and work your way up from there. Art is open to interpretation and a form of your own expression. Have fun with it!”
As a nail artist herself, Melissa is inspired by everything and everyone. She loves texture, water, prints, murals, food, and couture. The list is endless. “It's important for me to think outside the box, to keep my art fresh and feel inspired.” Because she’s always liked to stand out and be different, she believes it’s best to ignore the styles that trend on social media. Ultimately, Melissa’s mantra is, “Become the trendsetter. Start your own wave!”
Courtesy of Melissa Samuel
If you want to recreate some of Melissa's famed manicures at home, the boss babe just released a line of press-on nails on Aug. 26. You can snag a few sets from FinesseYourClaws.com.
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Featured image by Prostock-Studio/Getty Images
A gem amongst the thousands of options: The Modern Balinese Style Villa. Designed by decor duo, Angelique and Alexander, the pair channeled their love for traveling and adventure into one of the most beautiful spaces on this planet.
"Our specialty is modern living with world influences: from Bali to Mexico, Norway to India. We will design your space from concept to completion. Oh, and we build our own properties that you can come and stay in: our first being a luxury Balinese style retreat in Encino, CA."
The opportunity presented itself to visit this stunning, perfectly nestled abode and all I could think was, "Black girls deserve luxury." So this Black girl and her best friend got to spend the unofficial end of summer, Labor Day, relishing in the most grandeur place I have ever laid my head. Not only is every crevice of the house social media-worthy but it oozes relaxation.
The Living Area
Courtesy of Angelique and Alexander
The moment I set my feet in the villa, I felt the intentionality of the space. The open living room space is brilliantly designed for modern living. You can cook in the bomb ass, all-marble-everything kitchen while binging your favorite Netflix show and relaxing on the chic couches. The superior indoor swing surrounded by plants engineered a sanctuary downright quintessential for tranquility.
The Primary Bedroom
Courtesy of Angelique and Alexander
Talk about breathtaking, the Primary Bedroom connects you to nature and was heavily inspired by Angelique and Alex's experience with the effervescent indoor/outdoor living seen all over Bali. "When we built this room, we wanted to bring the beauty of our tropical garden and water fountain right into the bedroom." Think lush jungle. Since it was my bestie's birthday, she took residence in this room for our stay. Let's just say she didn't want to leave this space because, well, who would?
The Bohemia Room
Courtesy of Angelique and Alexander
Keeping with the love for Balinese culture, the Bohemia room is a love letter to local artisans, their craftsmanship, and the deep vibrant colors of the countryside. The decor of this room paints a vivid picture of the timeless skill of the amazing Balinese people. I posted up in this room and, between the plants and buddhas giving me life, I too did not want to depart.
The White Room
Courtesy of Angelique and Alexander
Designed for complete tranquility, the White room was simplicity personified. "Drawing inspiration from one of our favorite temples in Bali, we wanted to create a bedroom which fills the guest with complete calm." I spent one morning in this room doing my meditation and I felt utter serenity.
Joce Blake
Walking around the villa, I couldn't help but be full of gratitude. Childhood Joce was so proud of Adult Joce because both of them deserved this. They deserve luxury. For me, that was why this getaway was paramount to my mental health. As of late, I have found myself justifying why I deserve luxurious things and the simple answer is I am worth it.
While it seems elementary, it's a constant struggle for me as I didn't grow up seeing Black women in my life showering themselves with lavish experiences. So as I grow wiser, I am teaching myself that it is the standard and not the exception.
The Bathroom
Courtesy of Angelique and Alexander
The elegance engrained around the villa gave voice to the rich auntie I aspire to be and who my nieces and nephew already believe I am. Seriously, look at this freaking bathroom! Who knew I only needed a flight to LA to be on the black sand beach beneath the Gunung Agung volcano?
The Backyard Oasis
Courtesy of Angelique and Alexander
There are no words to truly describe the beauty of the backyard safe haven. It's a literal dream. We took full advantage of the oasis with yoga by the buddha fountain, drinks by the pool, lounging on the cabana, and dipping in the pool like our names was on the deed – it felt like home.
Joce Blake
My bestie, Lauren Keys, had things to say about our baeFF-cation. "This villa was the perfect calm I needed during such a chaotic time in the world! No detail was left untouched which added to the peaceful vibes it gave," she said.
Traveling to Bali may not be an option for all but checking into this villa will certainly transport you to the Indonesian province without having to use your passport. The votes are in: I give this Modern Balinese Style Villa Airbnb 10s across the board!
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Featured image by Joce Blake
Originally published September 28, 2021
