Black women stylists are often the catalyst behind pushing the needle forward fashion-wise for the biggest names across any industry.

There’s no better way to execute a vision than by letting the clothes tell the story. Fashion, costume design and styling have a multitude of layers that contribute to bringing a narrative to life. From working on the set of music videos to dressing cover stars for major publications, the possibilities in the creative landscape are endless. 

In an effort to push past boundaries and pioneer one-of-a-kind creations, these five stylists are shifting the culture in a direction that has never been seen before.   

Naya Ashley

From dressing Dess Dior and Lady London to collaborating with Monica and De’arra, Naya Ashley has styled many industry key players. The stylist began her career in Atlanta and has since experienced immense success from her dynamic looks going viral online. A woman of many talents, including owning a showroom and adding filmmaker to her résumé, Ashley proves that having it all is attainable.

Solange Franklin

This New York-based stylist, editor and brand consultant is no stranger to her work being in the spotlight for the world to consume. Solange Franklin works with luxury brands, and her work has been featured on distinguished magazine covers. She has styled some of the most prominent voices in Hollywood, including Solange Knowles, Tracee Ellis Ross and Serena Williams.

June Ambrose

June Ambrose is a veteran in the fashion industry. She transcends beyond tradition with a unique vision and style that has garnered her mass popularity among groundbreaking entertainers. Her various experiences have positioned her to lend her other innovative talents and serve as a creative director. She has collaborated with brands, such as GUCCI, Estee Lauder, Target, Levi’s and Puma. In addition to being a stylist, Ambrose wears many hats, including being an award-winning creative director, costume designer and entrepreneur. With over 25 years in the game, there is no sign of the multi-hyphenate slowing down anytime soon.

Zerina Akers

Zerina Akers is known for being the creative mastermind behind one of Beyoncé’s most iconic “Formation” top hat looks. Being Queen Bey’s personal stylist and wardrobe curator from 2014 to 2022 opened many doors for her to build her high-profile celebrity clientele. Akers has styled influential stars, like Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, Chloe x Halle and Ava DuVernay. Major brands, such as Vogue and Essence, have recognize her styling achievements. She also received an Emmy Award for her costume designs on Beyoncé’s 2020 film “Black Is King.”

Shiona Turini

While tuning into the HBO series “Insecure,” chances are that some of the outfits that left viewers wanting to replicate it was styled by Shiona Turini. The stylist worked on “Insecure” for three seasons, where she curated a crafted collection of Black-owned brands for the show’s characters to wear. Her other styling credits include dressing Leticia Wright, Solange, Megan Thee Stallion and more.