By Verna Meachum·Updated August 15, 2024
In honor of National Braiders Day on August 8, we celebrate 25 exceptional braiders who have mastered their craft and made significant contributions to the hair care community. National Braiders Day, established by the Braid Love Movement in 2017, is a time to reflect on the cultural significance of hair braiding, advocate for the recognition and respect braiders deserve, and educate others on the deep-rooted history and artistry of braiding.
These talented professionals have showcased unparalleled expertise and creativity, transforming braided hairstyles into a revered form of self-expression and cultural identity. Each braider featured in this article has made a notable impact, inspiring and elevating the art of braiding within their communities and beyond.
1. Kendra Garvey
Photo Credit: photographer / @robertector / Instagram. Image of: @therealmaryjblige / Instagram. Image Source: @kendragarvey / Instagram
Kendra Garvey is a renowned Celebrity Braider and Hairstylist who has earned her place in the spotlight as a two-time Emmy Nominee. Her exceptional talent has graced the likes of Mary J. Blige, Kerry Washington, and Beyonce, showcasing her ability to create stunning, iconic, braided styles. Kendra’s work continues to set the bar for excellence in the industry, making her a sought-after expert in her craft.
2. Shani Crowe
Reel Source: @crowezilla / Instagram
Shani Crowe is an interdisciplinary artist from Chicago’s South Side, celebrated for her intricate corn-rowed hairstyles and large photographic portraits. With a BFA from Howard University, her work centers on cultural coiffure, adornment, and beauty rituals of the African diaspora, fostering connectivity through her art. Shani’s work has been featured at prestigious venues such as The Broad in Los Angeles and on Saturday Night Live in collaboration with Solange Knowles.
1. Ancestral Strands
Reel Source: @ancestralstrands / Instagram
Tamara Albertini, the visionary behind Ancestral Strands Braid Studio, is a Holistic Master Braider, Herbalist, and African Esthetics expert based in New York. For over 20 years, she has nurtured and healed hundreds of clients through her holistic hair braiding services, which connect deeply with African lineage and textured hair roots. Tamara’s work has graced celebrities like Simone Missick and has been featured in Essence magazine, Essence Fest, Afropunk, and Shea Moisture events.
3. Juhmai Lumpkin
Image Source: @jahmonit / Instagram
Jahmai Lumpkin is a celebrated hair stylist famous for her trendy braids, seen on celebrities such as Rita Ora, Nia Long, and Keri Hilson. Known for crafting intricate designs like crowns and hearts, her artistry has been showcased in publications including InStyle Magazine, LA Weekly, and the New York Times Fashion Section. Her work at Goo Salon and successful collaborations, such as the Braid Bar at the Melody Ehsani Shop, underscore her significant influence and creativity in the braiding industry.
4. Zateesha Barbour
Image Source: @zateeshahairstylist / Instagram
Zateesha Barbour, a London-based Session Hair Stylist with over a decade of experience, is acclaimed for her contemporary approach to traditional hair styling across all textures. A fervent advocate for inclusivity, she has built a loyal following and styled celebrities like Naomi Campbell, Jorja Smith, and Ellie Goulding. Her innovative techniques and dedication to diversity have distinguished her as a prominent figure in the industry.
6. Nikki Nelms
Image Source: @nikkinelms / Instagram
Nikki Nelms, a master hairstylist, boasts an impressive client list featuring Janelle Monáe, Zoe Kravitz, Serena Williams, and Kelly Rowland. Renowned for her creative and versatile styles, Nikki gained significant attention for her beach-inspired look for Solange. Her expertise and innovative techniques have solidified her reputation as a top stylist to the stars.
- Lacy Redway
Image Source: @lacyredway / Instagram
Lacy Redway is a New York-based hairstylist who saw her career take off after studying at The Aveda Institute in Manhattan. Her mastery of all hair textures and magnetic personality have attracted a prestigious clientele, including Tessa Thompson, Anne Hathaway, and Priyanka Chopra. Lacy’s remarkable talent and dedication have established her as a highly sought-after stylist in the industry.
8. Shelby Swain
Image Source: @shelbeniecedidthat / Instagram
Shelby Swain, known as the “Beyoncé of Baby Hair,” is a celebrity hairstylist renowned for her innovative creations with longtime client Lizzo, such as bejeweled edges on RuPaul’s Drag Race and a wood-grain hair hat for the BET Awards. Her work has been pivotal in redefining beauty standards around Black hair and challenging mainstream culture’s appropriation of Black beauty styles.
9. Joy Matashi
Image Source: @joydarlinginnit / Instagram. Photo Credit:@florian.joahn / Instagram
Joy Matashi, an architect and artist, brings her West African Modernist heritage into the 21st century by exploring the architecture and geometry of hairstyles. Based between London and Abuja, Nigeria, her cross-disciplinary practice treats hair as “small architecture,” using the head as a foundation. Inspired by iconic Nigerian structures, Joy’s innovative approach showcases the strength and versatility of black hair as both an artistic and architectural medium.
10. Kione Grandison
Image Source: @kione_g / Instagram. Hair collaboration between@amazingafi_. Photo credit: @benifundr
Kione Grandison, a London-based multidisciplinary artist, explores identity through her mixed Jamaican heritage. She focuses on braiding within the Black beauty industry, Jamaican music, dancehall culture, and traditional African adornment. Combining visual art with ethnography, she delves into contemporary and historic cultures.
11. Susan Oludele
Susan Oludele, known as Hair By Susy, has been a trailblazing hair artist since 2011, transforming the industry with her innovative braids, twists, and protective styles. Based in New York and expanding to Los Angeles, she has styled celebrities like Solange Knowles and crafted iconic looks such as Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” cornrows. Celebrated for turning braids into wearable art, Susan’s work features bold shapes and vibrant colors, each design infused with spiritual and intentional elements.
12. Kim Kimble
Image Source: @kimblehaircare / Instagram. Collab with @BarbieStyle
Kim Kimble is a top celebrity hairstylist and natural hair educator known for styling stars like Mary J. Blige, Halle Berry, and Rihanna. She was famous for her braiding skills and created iconic looks such as Halle Berry’s blonde styles in B.A.P.S., Brandy’s Moesha styles, and Cinderella braids. Inspired by cultural icons, her innovative designs have garnered industry acclaim. Her exceptional talent was honored with a Barbie featuring long goddess locs with charms, symbolizing her journey and dedication to bold, trendsetting styles.
13. Xia Charles
Reel Source: @braided__ / Instagram
Xia Charles, a Trinidad and Tobago-born braider, is acclaimed for her innovative contributions to the hair industry. Her Brooklyn salon, Braided New York, is famous for its artistic, Instagram-worthy braids. Xia’s notable work includes the iconic 30-foot braids for Beyoncé’s Black Is King and pristine cornrows for Cardi B. Viewing each braid as a piece of art, Xia takes joy in bringing her creative visions to life.
14. Chuck Amos
Image Source: @chuckielovehair / Instagram. Photo by: @mikeruizone / Instagram.
Chuck Amos, a hair legend, has styled the tresses of celebrities like Alicia Keys, Tracee Ellis Ross, Vanessa Williams, Lisa Bonet, Viola Davis, and Iman. Known for his iconic work, he styled Brandy’s hair for her first two albums from 1994 to 1999, solidifying his status in the industry.
15. Soichi Inagaki
Image Source: @soichiinagaki / Instagram. Photo by: @MarknMarkn
Soichi Inagaki is the creative force behind many of FKA Twigs’ most iconic looks, including her bold braids and exaggerated baby hairs. His eclectic style sensibility has resulted in some of her most memorable hairstyles, establishing Soichi as a visionary stylist in the industry.
16. Melek Ustunluk
Reel Source: @mimisbraids / Instagram
Melek Ustunluk, a braiding maestro, is celebrated for her work with artists like Wale and Travis Scott. She runs a successful beauty shop and has styled high-profile clients such as Travis Scott and Allen “Cornrow King” Iverson. Beyond her impressive clientele, Melek is known for her steadfast support of fellow braiders nationwide, fostering a strong community within the industry.
17. Stasha Harris
Image Source: @magicfingersstudio / Instagram
Stasha Harris, an award-winning licensed NYS Natural Hair Instructor, has transformed from a salon braider to a global beauty entrepreneur. With over 22 years of experience, she has traveled the world as an educator and brand ambassador, featured in Oprah Magazine, Lifestyle, and Sophisticate’s Black Hair. Stasha is now the Creative Director and host of Cosmopolitan Magazine’s “The Braid Up” and “Battle of the Braids,” highlighting the talents of fellow stylists.
18. Marcia Hamilton
Image Source: @marciahamiltonhair / Instagram
Marcia Hamilton is an Emmy-nominated hairstylist celebrated for blending classic beauty with modern trends. After moving to Los Angeles, she gained recognition by collaborating with top celebrity stylists and creating unique looks for stars like Brandy, Eve, Kelly Rowland, Serena Williams, Pink, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Taraji P. Henson. Mentored by industry legends Orlando Pita, Guido Palau, and Teddy Charles, Marcia has contributed to fashion shows for designers such as Oscar De La Renta, Tom Ford, and Marc Jacobs, using these experiences to craft iconic and innovative styles.
19. Brie Marie
Reel Source: @thebrimarieway / Instagram
When South Florida stylist Bri Marie crafted the Nike swoosh-shaped braid for Drake at the Nike Maxim Award Show in September 2022, it stole the spotlight. Her braiding career took off in 2019 when rapper Riff Raff’s PR team discovered her on Instagram. Since then, her intricate and artistic braids have attracted an exclusive clientele, including celebrities like James Harden, Rich Homie Quan, and Swae Lee,
20. Dominique Foreman
Reel Source: @moona_thehairstylist / Instagram
Licensed cosmetologist Dominique Foreman has been in the hair business for over 10 years, earning numerous qualifications and certificates. She is known for her faux locs, boho, and goddess braids. As an uprising star, she was voted among the best hair braiders in the country and proudly represents the state of Connecticut.
21. Dr. Kari Williams
Reel Source: @dr.kariwill / Instagram
Dr. Kari Williams, founder of Mahogany Revolution, is a renowned celebrity stylist known for her creation of the popular Goddess Locs style. Her impressive client list includes stars like Ciara, Meagan Good, Tyra Banks, Willow Smith, and Ayesha Curry. As an expert in her craft, Dr. Kari Williams is dedicated to training other stylists in the art and mastery of Goddess Locs, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
22. Felecia Leatherwood
Reel Source: @felecialeatherwood / Instagram
Felicia Leatherwood, another renowned celebrity stylist, has worked with some of our favorites, including Issa Rae, Ava DuVernay, Nicole Ari Parker, Simone Missick, Skai Jackson, Teyonah Parris, and Lenny Kravitz. In addition to her star-studded clientele, Felicia is the creator of “The Detangler Brush,” a must-have tool for natural hair care. Known for her versatility, she excels in styles such as crochets, cornrows, box braids, faux locs, and Marley twists, making her a true master of her craft.
23. Kamara Brown
Image Source: @rawwintuition / Instagram
Kamara Brown is a talented artist renowned for her diverse skills and the high praise she receives from her clients. She got her big break when she was introduced to singer and songwriter Jhene Aiko to create the faux loc style worn in the music video for “The Pressure.” Kamara excels in a wide range of styles, including passion twists, box braids, cornrows, Havana twists, crochet, faux locs, Marley twists, goddess locs, and Senegalese twists, showcasing her versatility and artistry in each creation.
24. Mariah Leilani
Image Source: @yayadidmyhair / Instagram
Mariah Leilani, a rising star in Los Angeles’ styling community, has made a name for herself working with celebrities like Cardi B, Brandy, and Ella Mai. Starting her career by styling hair for friends and family in Compton, she has swiftly ascended to become a sought-after talent known for her exceptional skills and artistic flair.
25. Reese Young
Reel Source: @braids.amillion / Instagram
Uprising star Mericia (Reese) Young, a native of Jacksonville, FL, transformed her childhood hobby of braiding into a thriving business. After attending Stanton College Prep and studying at both UNF and FSU, Reese took a bold step in 2017 to leave the corporate world and launch Braids Amillion LLC. Her dedication and talent have earned her a growing reputation across Florida, Georgia, and California, with over 1,000 clients served in just six years, making her a rising star in the braiding community.
Conclusion: How to Support and Celebrate National Braiders Day
As we celebrate National Braiders Day, let’s recognize and appreciate the incredible talent and hard work of these 25 braiders who continue to set high standards in the industry. You can support this day by visiting a professional braider, learning about the rich history of hair braiding, and advocating for reduced regulatory hurdles that braiders face.
By doing so, we honor the cultural significance of braiding and ensure that these talented individuals receive the respect and opportunities they deserve. Here’s to these remarkable braiders’ continued success and lasting impact on our community and culture.
