9.5 Fashion and beauty standards
9 min read•august 21, 2024
Black women's beauty standards have been shaped by a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and social factors. From European to African traditions and the legacy of slavery, these influences have created unique challenges and opportunities for self-expression and empowerment.
Hair politics, skin tone discrimination, and have all played crucial roles in Black women's experiences. These aspects reflect broader struggles for civil rights, cultural pride, and workplace equality, highlighting the deep connections between beauty and identity in American society.
Origins of beauty standards
- Beauty standards for Black women in America have been shaped by complex historical and cultural factors
- The intersection of European colonialism, African traditions, and the legacy of slavery created unique beauty ideals and challenges for Black women
- Understanding these origins provides context for ongoing discussions about representation, identity, and empowerment in Black beauty
European beauty ideals
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- Emphasized fair skin, straight hair, and European facial features as the pinnacle of beauty
- Perpetuated through art, literature, and early American media
- Created a hierarchy of beauty that marginalized Black women's natural features
- Influenced cosmetic practices (skin lightening creams, hair straightening techniques)
African beauty traditions
- Celebrated diverse skin tones, hair textures, and body types
- Incorporated intricate hairstyles, body modifications, and adornments
- Emphasized the cultural and spiritual significance of beauty practices
- Survived through oral traditions and cultural practices despite slavery
Slave trade impact
- Disrupted traditional African beauty practices and cultural connections
- Imposed European standards of beauty on enslaved populations
- Led to the development of new beauty practices as a form of resistance and identity preservation
- Created lasting psychological impacts on perceptions of beauty within Black communities
Hair politics
- Hair has been a central aspect of Black women's identity and political expression in America
- The politics of Black hair reflect broader struggles for civil rights, cultural pride, and workplace equality
- Understanding hair politics provides insight into the complexities of Black women's experiences in American society
Natural hair movement
- Emerged in the 1960s as part of the broader Civil Rights and Black Power movements
- Encouraged Black women to embrace their natural hair textures and styles
- Challenged Eurocentric beauty standards and promoted Black pride
- Resurgence in the 2000s with the "Big Chop" trend and natural hair care products
Chemical relaxers vs natural
- Chemical relaxers introduced in the early 20th century to straighten Black hair
- Became widely popular as a means to conform to mainstream beauty standards
- Health concerns arose due to harsh chemicals and potential scalp damage
- promoted alternatives to chemical treatments
- Debate continues over personal choice vs societal pressure in hair care decisions
Workplace discrimination issues
- Black women faced discrimination for wearing natural hairstyles in professional settings
- Policies banning "unprofessional" hairstyles often targeted Black hair textures and styles
- Legal challenges to hair discrimination ( in various states)
- Ongoing efforts to educate employers and promote inclusive workplace policies
Skin tone discrimination
- Skin tone discrimination, or , has been a persistent issue within Black communities
- Rooted in the history of slavery and perpetuated by societal beauty standards
- Impacts various aspects of Black women's lives, including social status, employment, and self-esteem
- Understanding colorism is crucial for addressing broader issues of racism and representation
Colorism within communities
- Preference for lighter skin tones within Black communities
- Impacts social relationships, marriage prospects, and perceived beauty
- Internalized racism perpetuates colorist attitudes
- Efforts to address and heal from colorism through education and representation
Skin bleaching practices
- Use of chemical products to lighten skin tone
- Motivated by societal preferences for lighter skin and internalized colorism
- Health risks associated with many skin bleaching products
- Global phenomenon affecting various communities of color
Media representation
- Historical underrepresentation of darker-skinned Black women in media
- Colorism in casting decisions for film, television, and advertising
- Impact on self-image and beauty standards for Black women
- Recent efforts to increase diversity in skin tone representation in media
Fashion as resistance
- Fashion has served as a powerful tool for Black women to assert their identity and challenge societal norms
- Clothing choices often reflect political statements, cultural pride, and resistance to oppression
- Understanding fashion as resistance provides insight into Black women's agency and creativity in the face of discrimination
African-inspired clothing
- Incorporation of traditional African textiles, patterns, and styles
- Dashikis, kente cloth, and head wraps as symbols of cultural pride
- Fusion of African and Western styles to create unique fashion statements
- Challenges Western-centric fashion norms and promotes cultural diversity
Civil rights era fashion
- Deliberate choices in dress to challenge segregation and demand respect
- Sunday best attire worn to protests and sit-ins
- Afros and natural hairstyles as symbols of Black pride and resistance
- Fashion as a means of visual unity and solidarity within the movement
Black is beautiful movement
- Emerged in the 1960s as a celebration of Black aesthetics and culture
- Promoted natural hairstyles, African-inspired fashion, and dark skin tones
- Challenged Eurocentric beauty standards in media and society
- Influenced fashion, cosmetics, and popular culture beyond the Black community
Beauty industry representation
- The beauty industry has historically underserved and misrepresented Black women
- Efforts to increase diversity and inclusion have led to significant changes in recent decades
- Understanding the evolution of representation in the beauty industry reflects broader societal shifts in race relations
Black-owned cosmetic companies
- Emergence of companies catering specifically to Black skin tones and hair textures
- Pioneers (, Annie Turnbo Malone) paved the way for modern entrepreneurs
- Challenges in securing funding and shelf space in major retailers
- Recent success stories (Fenty Beauty, Pat McGrath Labs) changing the industry landscape
Diversity in advertising
- Historical lack of representation of Black women in beauty advertising
- Gradual increase in diversity of models and spokespersons
- Campaigns celebrating diverse beauty standards and inclusivity
- Impact on self-image and product choices for Black consumers
Inclusion in fashion magazines
- Limited representation of Black women on magazine covers and in editorials historically
- Groundbreaking moments (Beverly Johnson as first Black woman on Vogue cover, 1974)
- Increased diversity in recent years, including plus-size and darker-skinned models
- Ongoing discussions about tokenism vs genuine inclusion in the fashion industry
Cultural appropriation
- in fashion and beauty has been a contentious issue for Black women
- The adoption of Black cultural elements by mainstream culture often occurs without credit or understanding
- Examining cultural appropriation provides insight into power dynamics and the commodification of Black culture
Hairstyles and fashion
- Appropriation of traditionally Black hairstyles (cornrows, box braids, dreadlocks)
- Adoption of and designs without cultural context
- Controversy over non-Black individuals profiting from Black cultural elements
- Debates over cultural exchange vs appropriation in fashion and beauty
Mainstream adoption of trends
- Black beauty trends often transition from marginalized to mainstream
- (Baby hairs, long acrylic nails, full lips) popularized by non-Black celebrities
- Commodification of Black aesthetics in the beauty and fashion industries
- Erasure of cultural origins and significance when trends are adopted
Criticism and controversy
- Social media callouts and public discussions of cultural appropriation
- High-profile incidents involving celebrities and fashion brands
- Debates over intention vs impact in cases of alleged appropriation
- Efforts to educate about cultural sensitivity and proper attribution
Body image issues
- for Black women are influenced by both Eurocentric and Afrocentric beauty ideals
- The intersection of race, gender, and body size creates unique challenges for Black women
- Understanding these issues is crucial for promoting mental health and self-esteem in Black communities
Eurocentric vs Afrocentric ideals
- Conflict between thin, European body standards and curvier, African-inspired ideals
- Pressure to conform to mainstream beauty standards while maintaining cultural identity
- Celebration of diverse body types within Black communities
- Impact of these conflicting ideals on self-perception and body satisfaction
Impact on self-esteem
- Internalization of beauty standards affecting mental health and self-worth
- Higher rates of body dissatisfaction among Black women exposed to Eurocentric ideals
- Protective factors of cultural pride and family support in building positive body image
- Intersection of body image issues with other forms of discrimination and stress
Body positivity movement
- Emergence of as a response to narrow beauty standards
- Black women's leadership in promoting size inclusivity and self-love
- Influence of social media in spreading body positive messages
- Critiques of the movement's inclusivity and effectiveness for women of color
Influence of pop culture
- Pop culture has played a significant role in shaping and challenging beauty standards for Black women
- Black celebrities and influencers have become powerful agents of change in the beauty industry
- Examining pop culture's influence provides insight into the evolving perceptions of Black beauty
Black celebrities in fashion
- Increasing visibility of Black celebrities as fashion icons and brand ambassadors
- Impact of figures (Rihanna, Beyoncé, Lupita Nyong'o) on beauty standards
- Collaborations between Black celebrities and major fashion houses
- Challenges and successes in breaking barriers in high fashion
Music video aesthetics
- Evolution of Black beauty representation in music videos
- Influence of hip-hop and R&B aesthetics on mainstream beauty trends
- Criticism of colorism and body type preferences in music video casting
- Empowering visuals celebrating diverse Black beauty (Beyoncé's "Brown Skin Girl")
Social media beauty influencers
- Rise of Black beauty influencers on platforms (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok)
- Democratization of beauty advice and product recommendations
- Creation of online communities celebrating Black beauty
- Impact on beauty industry marketing strategies and product development
Economic aspects
- The economic power of Black consumers has significantly impacted the beauty industry
- Understanding the economic aspects of Black beauty provides insight into broader issues of representation and entrepreneurship
- Black women's spending habits and business ventures have reshaped the beauty landscape
Black spending power
- Disproportionate spending on beauty products by Black consumers
- Influence of Black buying power on product development and marketing
- Challenges in accessing products catering to diverse skin tones and hair textures
- Recent shifts in major retailers' strategies to capture Black consumer market
Targeted marketing strategies
- Evolution of marketing approaches to Black consumers
- Shift from problematic "ethnic" marketing to more inclusive strategies
- Use of Black celebrities and influencers to appeal to Black consumers
- Criticism of exploitative marketing practices and lack of authentic representation
Entrepreneurship in beauty
- Growth of Black-owned beauty businesses addressing underserved markets
- Challenges in securing funding and retail partnerships for Black entrepreneurs
- Success stories of Black women in the beauty industry (Pat McGrath, Lisa Price)
- Impact of social media and e-commerce on Black beauty entrepreneurship
Contemporary beauty standards
- Contemporary beauty standards for Black women reflect a complex interplay of historical influences and modern movements
- The definition of beauty continues to evolve, becoming more inclusive and diverse
- Understanding contemporary standards provides insight into ongoing challenges and progress in representation
Evolving definitions of beauty
- Shift towards celebrating diverse skin tones, hair textures, and body types
- Influence of social media in promoting alternative beauty standards
- Continued tension between Eurocentric and Afrocentric beauty ideals
- Impact of representation in media on perceptions of beauty
Intersectionality in beauty
- Recognition of diverse experiences within Black womanhood
- Consideration of how factors (class, sexuality, ability) intersect with race in beauty standards
- Efforts to create more inclusive beauty spaces and products
- Challenges in addressing multiple forms of marginalization in the beauty industry
Global impact of Black aesthetics
- Influence of Black American beauty trends on global fashion and beauty industries
- Cross-cultural exchange of beauty practices and ideals
- Celebration of African and diaspora beauty traditions worldwide
- Ongoing negotiations between local beauty traditions and global Black aesthetics
Key Terms to Review (42)
African-inspired clothing: African-inspired clothing refers to garments and accessories that draw influence from the traditional textiles, patterns, and styles of various African cultures. This fashion trend celebrates the rich heritage and diversity of African aesthetics, often incorporating bold colors, intricate designs, and unique fabric techniques. It serves as a means of expression, identity, and cultural pride among individuals, especially within the African diaspora.
African-inspired prints: African-inspired prints are vibrant and culturally significant textiles that draw from the rich traditions and artistic expressions of African cultures. These prints often feature bold colors, geometric patterns, and symbolic motifs that reflect the history, beliefs, and identities of African peoples. Their use in fashion has not only brought visibility to African artistry but has also challenged conventional beauty standards by celebrating diverse aesthetics.
Afro hairstyle: The afro hairstyle is a naturally curly and voluminous style that emerged as a symbol of cultural pride and identity within the African American community, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement. This iconic hairstyle is often associated with the celebration of natural hair texture and serves as a rejection of Eurocentric beauty standards that have historically marginalized Black hair. The afro became more than just a fashion statement; it became a political and social expression of Black empowerment and resistance.
Angela Davis: Angela Davis is an American political activist, scholar, and author known for her involvement in the civil rights and Black liberation movements. Her work highlights the intersectionality of race, class, and gender, making significant contributions to discussions surrounding sexual exploitation, reproductive rights, and the criminal justice system.
Black celebrities in fashion: Black celebrities in fashion refer to influential figures in the entertainment industry who shape and challenge fashion trends, breaking stereotypes and setting new beauty standards. These celebrities often use their platforms to advocate for diversity and representation within the fashion world, impacting how black identity is perceived and celebrated in popular culture.
Black is Beautiful Movement: The Black is Beautiful Movement is a cultural and social movement that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, promoting the pride and appreciation of Black identity, beauty, and culture. It challenged Eurocentric beauty standards that marginalized Black features and aesthetics, advocating for self-acceptance and empowerment among Black individuals. This movement played a significant role in redefining notions of beauty, particularly in fashion and aesthetics, encouraging the celebration of natural hairstyles, darker skin tones, and African-inspired styles.
Black spending power: Black spending power refers to the economic capacity and purchasing influence of Black Americans within the broader market. This term emphasizes the significant contributions of Black consumers to various industries, including fashion and beauty, showcasing their ability to shape trends, drive sales, and influence brand loyalty. It highlights both the economic importance and cultural impact of Black consumers in shaping societal standards and consumer behavior.
Black women's network: A black women's network refers to a collective of Black women who connect, support, and empower each other through shared experiences and cultural heritage. This network often focuses on addressing specific issues such as systemic racism, social justice, and the unique challenges that Black women face in various sectors including fashion and beauty standards. By fostering solidarity and collaboration, these networks can challenge societal norms and create spaces for Black women to express their identities authentically.
Black-owned cosmetic companies: Black-owned cosmetic companies are businesses in the beauty and cosmetics industry that are founded, owned, or operated by Black individuals or communities. These companies often prioritize inclusivity, representation, and the unique needs of Black consumers, addressing gaps left by mainstream brands that have historically overlooked diverse skin tones and hair types.
Body image issues: Body image issues refer to the negative perceptions and feelings individuals have about their own bodies, often influenced by societal standards of beauty and fashion. These issues can lead to low self-esteem, unhealthy behaviors, and mental health struggles, particularly among women who feel pressured to conform to often unattainable beauty ideals. Understanding body image issues involves recognizing how these perceptions are shaped by cultural norms surrounding fashion and beauty.
Body Positivity: Body positivity is a social movement and cultural ideology that promotes the acceptance of all bodies, regardless of size, shape, or appearance. It seeks to challenge and dismantle harmful societal beauty standards that often marginalize and stigmatize individuals who do not conform to conventional norms, encouraging self-love and appreciation for one's own body.
Chemical Relaxers vs Natural Hair Care: Chemical relaxers are products used to permanently straighten curly or textured hair by breaking down the protein structure, while natural hair care focuses on maintaining and enhancing the natural curl pattern without altering the hair's structure. The use of chemical relaxers often reflects broader beauty standards that prioritize straight hair as more desirable, which can influence societal perceptions of beauty and self-identity.
Civil rights era fashion: Civil rights era fashion refers to the clothing and style choices that emerged during the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s, reflecting the social and political changes of the time. This period saw African Americans embracing fashion as a means of expressing identity, resistance, and solidarity against racial discrimination, while also challenging prevailing beauty standards. Through their attire, activists communicated messages of empowerment and dignity, often combining traditional styles with contemporary influences to assert their place in society.
Civil Rights Movement: The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal struggle during the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial discrimination and securing equal rights for African Americans in the United States. This movement not only focused on legal rights but also encompassed social, economic, and political aspects, influencing various forms of resistance and activism.
Colonialism: Colonialism is the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country or territory, often involving the exploitation of its resources and people. This process leads to the establishment of settlements and the imposition of a foreign culture, politics, and economy onto the colonized region. In examining fashion and beauty standards, colonialism plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of aesthetics, often privileging Western ideals while marginalizing indigenous cultures.
Colorism: Colorism is the discrimination and prejudice against individuals with darker skin tones, often within communities of the same racial or ethnic background. It stems from a societal preference for lighter skin, which can lead to disparities in beauty standards, opportunities, and social status. This concept significantly influences various aspects of culture, including fashion and media representation, where lighter skin is often idealized and celebrated.
CROWN Act: The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) is a law that prohibits discrimination based on a person's hairstyle or texture, specifically focusing on the hairstyles commonly associated with Black individuals. This act is a response to the systemic bias against natural Black hairstyles in various public and professional settings, seeking to promote inclusivity and respect for cultural identity. By addressing the historical stigmatization of natural hair, it connects with key ideas of empowerment and social justice, advocating for the rights of individuals to express their identity through their appearance.
Cultural appropriation: Cultural appropriation refers to the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without permission or understanding, and can lead to the exploitation of marginalized groups. This practice raises concerns when dominant cultures take aspects of minority cultures, especially when they commodify or misrepresent those cultural elements, leading to issues of power dynamics and identity. The conversation around cultural appropriation often centers on issues of respect, representation, and authenticity in various areas including fashion, beauty standards, and media portrayals.
Diversity in advertising: Diversity in advertising refers to the inclusion and representation of various identities, cultures, and backgrounds in marketing campaigns. This concept emphasizes showcasing a range of ethnicities, body types, genders, ages, and abilities to reflect the real-world population and connect with diverse consumer audiences. It is crucial in challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting a more inclusive society.
Double consciousness: Double consciousness is a concept developed by W.E.B. Du Bois that describes the internal conflict experienced by marginalized groups, particularly African Americans, who have to reconcile their identity within a society that devalues them. This duality creates a sense of seeing oneself through the eyes of others, leading to feelings of alienation and self-doubt while navigating both cultural identities and societal expectations.
Entrepreneurship in beauty: Entrepreneurship in beauty refers to the process of starting and managing businesses that focus on beauty products, services, and innovations. This concept encompasses a range of activities, from creating cosmetics to establishing salons and wellness centers, driven by the desire to meet consumer needs and trends in the beauty industry. It plays a critical role in shaping fashion and beauty standards, influencing how individuals perceive themselves and others in society.
Eurocentric vs Afrocentric Ideals: Eurocentric ideals prioritize European culture, values, and perspectives, often positioning them as the universal standard. In contrast, Afrocentric ideals emphasize the importance and centrality of African culture, history, and experiences, advocating for a perspective that values African contributions and narratives. This distinction is crucial when examining issues like fashion and beauty standards, as these ideals influence societal perceptions of attractiveness and acceptable aesthetics.
Evolving definitions of beauty: Evolving definitions of beauty refer to the changing perceptions and standards of what is considered beautiful across different cultures and time periods. This concept acknowledges that beauty is not static; it transforms in response to social, economic, and political influences, highlighting how notions of attractiveness can vary widely based on context and historical moment.
Fashion as resistance: Fashion as resistance refers to the way individuals and communities use clothing and personal style to challenge societal norms, oppressive systems, and beauty standards. It empowers marginalized groups, particularly Black women, to assert their identity and express their culture through fashion, creating a sense of agency against dominant narratives.
Global impact of black aesthetics: The global impact of black aesthetics refers to the way black cultural expressions, including art, fashion, music, and literature, influence and shape beauty standards and creative practices around the world. This impact challenges conventional notions of beauty by celebrating diversity, individuality, and cultural heritage, often merging contemporary style with traditional influences.
Harlem Renaissance: The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, marking a time of significant artistic expression and intellectual engagement within the African American community. This period was characterized by a strong sense of racial pride and a push against the oppression faced by Black Americans, influenced by historical events such as the rise of Jim Crow laws and the Great Migration.
Hegemonic Femininity: Hegemonic femininity refers to the culturally exalted ideals of femininity that are often upheld by society as the standard for women. This concept is tied to power dynamics, where certain traits and behaviors are deemed desirable and rewarded, reinforcing gender hierarchies. It shapes how women are expected to present themselves, influencing their choices in areas like fashion and beauty, thus impacting their roles in both public and private spheres.
Impact on self-esteem: Impact on self-esteem refers to the way external factors, particularly societal norms and standards, influence an individual's perception of their own worth and value. This concept is closely tied to the messages conveyed by fashion and beauty standards, which can shape how individuals view themselves, especially within marginalized communities. Such influences can lead to feelings of inadequacy or confidence, affecting mental health and personal identity.
Inclusion in fashion magazines: Inclusion in fashion magazines refers to the representation and visibility of diverse individuals, particularly those from underrepresented groups, within the pages of these publications. This concept has gained prominence as society increasingly recognizes the importance of showcasing a range of body types, skin tones, and cultural backgrounds to reflect the true diversity of consumers and challenge traditional beauty standards.
Integration of beauty salons: The integration of beauty salons refers to the process of allowing Black women and other marginalized groups access to previously segregated beauty establishments. This term reflects broader societal changes in fashion and beauty standards, highlighting shifts in cultural attitudes towards race, identity, and acceptance within the beauty industry.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a framework for understanding how various forms of social identities—such as race, gender, class, and sexuality—intersect and create overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. This concept is crucial for analyzing the unique experiences of individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups, highlighting how societal structures impact them differently compared to those who may only experience one form of oppression.
Intersectionality in Beauty: Intersectionality in beauty refers to the interconnected nature of social categorizations, such as race, gender, class, and body type, that impact how beauty is perceived and valued in society. It highlights how these overlapping identities influence individual experiences and access to beauty standards, often resulting in unique challenges and privileges that differ for various groups.
Madam C.J. Walker: Madam C.J. Walker was an African American entrepreneur and philanthropist who became the first female self-made millionaire in the United States through her successful line of beauty and hair care products aimed at Black women. Her business not only catered to the beauty needs of African American women but also served as a platform for empowerment, providing economic opportunities and promoting self-sufficiency within the community.
Media representation: Media representation refers to the way in which various groups, communities, and individuals are portrayed in different forms of media, including television, film, print, and online platforms. This portrayal significantly shapes public perception, cultural norms, and social attitudes towards those groups. The media serves as a powerful tool that can either challenge or reinforce stereotypes, impacting how audiences view issues of identity, beauty, and fashion standards.
Music video aesthetics: Music video aesthetics refer to the visual style and artistic elements used in music videos that shape how music is experienced and interpreted. This term encompasses various aspects, including color schemes, camera angles, choreography, fashion choices, and overall visual storytelling. These elements work together to create a particular atmosphere or mood that enhances the song's themes and messages, often influencing cultural perceptions of beauty and identity.
Natural Hair Movement: The Natural Hair Movement is a social and cultural movement that encourages Black individuals to embrace their natural hair texture and reject the societal pressures to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. This movement has grown in popularity, promoting self-acceptance and pride in one’s natural curls, kinks, and coils, while also challenging the historical stigma surrounding Black hair.
Racial uplift: Racial uplift refers to the social and political movement aimed at improving the conditions and status of Black people in society, emphasizing education, moral improvement, and community solidarity. This concept is often associated with the belief that the advancement of Black individuals would lead to the elevation of the entire race, promoting self-help and empowerment through organized efforts and activism.
Skin bleaching practices: Skin bleaching practices refer to the use of various products and methods aimed at lightening the skin tone, often influenced by societal beauty standards that favor lighter skin. These practices are prevalent in many cultures, particularly among women of color, where lighter skin is often associated with beauty, social status, and economic advantage. The desire for lighter skin can lead to significant health risks due to the harsh chemicals often used in these products.
Social media beauty influencers: Social media beauty influencers are individuals who use platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to promote beauty products, trends, and techniques to their followers. They often share makeup tutorials, skincare routines, and product reviews, shaping the beauty standards and consumer behaviors of their audience through visual content and personal branding.
Targeted marketing strategies: Targeted marketing strategies are marketing techniques that focus on specific groups of consumers based on shared characteristics, interests, or behaviors. These strategies aim to deliver personalized messages and offers that resonate more deeply with the intended audience, increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversion. By leveraging demographic, psychographic, and behavioral data, businesses can effectively tailor their campaigns to meet the unique needs and preferences of different consumer segments.
The Great Migration: The Great Migration refers to the mass movement of over six million African Americans from the rural South to urban areas in the North and West between 1916 and 1970. This significant demographic shift was fueled by various factors, including the search for better economic opportunities, escaping oppressive Jim Crow laws, and the impact of World War I and II on labor demands. The migration influenced cultural expressions, social dynamics, and the role of Black women in leadership, music, performance, and evolving beauty standards.
The National Council of Negro Women: The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is an organization founded in 1935 to advocate for the rights and welfare of African American women and their communities. It was established to address social, economic, and political issues impacting Black women, promoting their participation in civic life while challenging racial and gender discrimination. The NCNW has played a significant role in shaping the perception and standards of beauty and fashion within the African American community, encouraging women to embrace their identities and reject Eurocentric ideals.