editorial series celebrates creative expression of black “heritage and hair”

“Heritage and Hair Inspiration” is the editorial project by creative director and stylist Bee Diamondhead that celebrates the creativity and self-expression black women have always reclaimed through their hair. A tradition that, in a lot of ways, has helped so many black women find personal empowerment. “I think we’ve hit a hair revolution as black females. We’re unapologetic about rocking different styles and I am inspired by that,” Diamondhead told ElleZA.

Leading up to the production of the editorial, Diamondhead—who went natural earlier this year—had a chance meeting with Johannesburg hairstylist Tina Wiklund, owner of  Mmuja Healthy Hair Salon in Parkhurst. “There was an instant connection and great vibe, it felt like a sisterhood. It turned out that Tina and I are from the same city in Zimbabwe.” This shared connection made Tina an obvious choice for collaboration on this project. “Together with her team she re-created these iconic hair styles based on our heritage,” Bee continued.

Photography: Aart Verrips
Make-up: Zipho Ntloko
Photographer’s assistant: Simz
Production: Bee Diamondhead/Mmuja Healthy Hair
Production & fashion assistants: Don Zondo, Amy Zama
Models: Zandile Gangxa (unsigned), Bonolo Modingwana (unsigned), Eve Segone (Boss Models)