In honor of Black History Month, check out these top Black Fashion Stylists and Creative Directors every fashion insider should be following.
As Black History Month comes to a close, let’s take a quick moment to honor a few Black creatives that have taken the fashion industry by storm. A few of these stylist have been leading stylist for quite some time while some are new to the game but also slaying black girl (or boy) magic. Keep reading to find out who’s on the list and in no particular order.
J. Bolin clients range from Tyra Banks, Tamia and Grant Hill, Sarah Jakes, LeToya Luckett, and Michelle Williams just to name a few. His looks are known for their bold colors, pattern play, layering and details. Bolin also makes it a point to feature emerging and small designers showing that style doesn’t have to always be “designer” to be iconic. His multiple bootcamps allow aspiring stylist and entrepreneurs to learn what and how to make it in this industry.
To see everything J. Bolin (seriously, it’s almost impossible to keep up with all the amazing and innovative things) follow him below:
Instagram: @StylistJolin
Facebook: Stylist J Bolin
Twitter: @StylistJBolin
Can’t afford to hire J. Bolin? No worries! He has an online shop can find items handpicked by himself.
Zerina Akers, long time stylist to yes, you guessed it, Queen Bey, Beyonce Knowles-Carter (hey #beyhive!). Other clients include Chloe x Halle, and Neicy Nash. Zerina has created multiple iconic Beyonce (and sometimes Sasha Fierce) looks. From the recent Roc Nation Brunch, hosted by The Carters, watercolor dress look, to the infamous pregnancy and introduction to twins, Sir and Rumi looks.
In all seriousness, once you’ve added Beyonce to your list of clients- do you really need any other credentials? Absolutely not.
Keep up with Zerina Akers here:
Instagram: @zerinaakers, Twitter: @ZerinaAkers and www.zerinaakers.com
Kollin Carter, is current #1 in the rap game, Cardi B’s stylist. There are so many iconic looks created by Kollin this list can’t even do him justice. Kollin has created jaw dropping looks on Cardi B since day 1, from hiding and then announcing her pregnancy, to the pearl beaded Jeremy Scott masterpiece, worn at the Met Gala 2018. Most recently, Kollin worked with Thierry Mugler on multiple vintage pieces to be feature at the 2019 Grammy’s on Cardi B. Kollin cannot be stopped. Every time Cardi B steps out, it’s an immediate fashion conversation.
Fun Fact: Kollin recently spoke at a panel at one of J. Bolin’s bootcamp and revealed that about 10 years ago that J. Bolin was the 1st person to believe in him and take him under his wing allowing him to be his assistant. Look at them (both) now! Two Black kings killing the fashion game at the same time!
Find Kollin Carter here:
Instagram: @kollincarter
Twitter: @KCarterStyles
Jason Bolden has been in the industry for quite some time. Starting on the fashion corporate side of things, as most of us do. You’ll also find him styling some of your favorite celebs like Taraji P. Henson, Yara Shahidi, and Ryan Coogler just to name a few. Forming friendships with both Gabrielle Union and Taraji P. Henson, and styling both actresses, proved to have a major impact on where he is now in his career. Most recently his team styled Taraji P Henson, Mindy Kaling, Ava DuVernay and Serena Williams for the 2019 Oscars.
To follow all thing Jason Bolden find him and his team here: Instagram: @jasonbolden, Facebook: @JasonBoldenStyle and www.jsn.studio
Last but certainly not least, Ade Samuel is the perfect addition in celebration of Black History Month. Her client list ranges from the Black Panther movie cast members like Michael B. Jordan and Letitia Wright (#WakandaForever!), and singer Justine Skye. Ade Samuel also focuses on supporting diverse designers because they supported her when other well-known designers told her no at the beginning of her styling career.
Ade Samuel also has a shoe collection that you can shop here at www.adesamuel.com.
Follow Ade Samuel here: Instagram: @adesamuel
Shoutout to all of these Black Kings and Queen leaving their stamp in the fashion industry and in their own way. Each of these artist should be celebrated not only because they are BLACK, but because they are AMAZING and legendary Stylists and Creative Directors, PERIOD. So if you weren’t already following- what are you waiting for?!