As a black girl who loves makeup and social media, I find it refreshing to see black women slaying the industry. Whether it be having an inspirational feed, entertaining vlogs, enviable wardrobes, or just being a charismatic figure, these 10 women have made a positive influence on the beauty community, and have an ah-mazing social media presence.
1. Kathryn Bedell
I have followed Kathryn since I started my makeup journey. Not only is Kathryn from Memphis, but she's a black college student thriving and securing her bag. I also appreciate Kathryn because she always keeps it 110% honest and is so transparent with her subscribers. Also her and her boyfriend Xerius are hilarious.
2. Shaina Talia
Another Memphis influencer! I just discovered her page in January, and GIRL when I tell you sis knows how to slay...she knows how to slay. I discovered her when I was looking for glitter glosses, and I came across her brand "Glam Glizzy"... Yes, sis is poppin and has her own lip gloss brand. Also, I extremely appreciate her bomb makeup looks and her bold fashion statements.
3. Makeupd0ll
Another OG, like Kathryn, I have been subscribed to her since my days as a junior makeup enthusiast. Not only is she amazing at natural glam as well as bold glam, she knows how to slay a wig (honestly watching her adjust her lace front is one of the most soothing things.) She is also the reason I've grown to love chit chat GRWMs,
4. Dreyah (msbenti_vegas)
Major shoutout to my best friend Destynee for getting me hooked on Dreyah. Des sent me Dreyah's Snapchat a year ago and I have been obsessed ever since. I have always been an eye glitter fiend, and Dreyah just fuels my obsession even more. Not to mention her Snapchat makeup tutorials are satisfying as well. Also, Dreyah's sporadic Snapchat stories dedicated to specific parts of her makeup collection may or may not be the cause of my recent makeup binges.
5. Jackie Aina
I'll admit that I am a little late to the Jackie Aina family, but a family reunion with Aunt Jackie is always a good time. Jackie is honestly a trailblazer in the beauty community. With her collab with TooFaced and her advocacy for wider ranges of foundation shades, Jackie has never been afraid to speak up. Also, her impeccable sense of fashion, charismatic character and her candor makes her one of my all-time favorite influencers,
6. Alyssa Forever
I first started watching Alyssa when I would look for ways to manage and style my natural hair. She then started posting makeup videos, then story times, and then vlogs, and before I knew it she had turned into one of the most entertaining influencers on the web. Not to mention her iconic outfits demonstrate her ability to push the envelope. Her channel is so versatile and her Instagram feed is so refreshing, and for that I thoroughly applaud Alyssa.
7. Bri Hall
Bri has been my inspiration for trying new wigs and bold hairstyles. This woman honestly does it all. From being a natural hair guru to promoting a healthy lifestyle and personal growth, Bri has done it all. She's so open about her personal life, especially when it comes to college girl struggles, that it makes her such a remarkable role model.
8. Monicastylemuse
I came across Monica by referencing her page when I was looking for new pieces to add to my wardrobe, and fashion inspiration. She then started to dabble in makeup and I became a consistent viewer on her channel. She's also an Afro-Latina, and she's been extremely open about her journey with her identity, A true fashionista who has not been afraid to go against the vernacular.
9. Amber Wagner
My favorite motivational speaker. There's nothing more refreshing than scrolling down your Instagram feed and receiving a motivational message. Amber just radiates. positivity in such an innovative way. The true epitome of "practicing what you preach".
10. MakeupShayla
Shayla really has done it all. Not only has she graced the Instagram pages of several notable brands, secured a collaboration with Colourpop Cosmetics, she also became the first African-American woman to have a collaboration with Maybelline cosmetics. Black women really can do it all!
