Black cinema has a powerful influence on our style choices, especially when it comes to hair. Iconic characters often set trends that ripple through culture, causing lasting impressions—think Janet Jackson’s box braids in Poetic Justice, or Angela Bassett’s sassy haircut in Waiting to Exhale. Black movie actors and actresses have a way of making certain fashions and hairstyles stand out, not only linking them to style and beauty but also confidence and identity. Whether it’s a swanky cut that symbolizes rebellion or a statement afro that evokes pride and power, what we see on screen often inspires us to mirror those looks and personas in real life.

Iconic Black Hairstyles In Film We Love

Before Halle Bailey inspired little Black girls by flaunting locs while starring as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Brandy gave us microbraids swirled up in an elegant ‘do as Cinderella. And we can’t forget about Halle Berry’s short mushroom haircut, in the sexy 90s film Strictly Business, which had all the cool, “around-the-way girls” sporting the look. These flicks prove that Black Cinema doesn’t just reflect trends; it creates them, shaping how we express ourselves through our vernacular, clothes, hair, etc. From the afros in 70s Blaxploitation films to the braided and natural styles in more recent movies like Black Panther, these films have celebrated and spotlighted Black hair in powerful ways.

Black characters on screen often reflect real-life culture and history, inspiring people to embrace their natural textures, try bold styles, or bring back classic looks with a modern twist. Whether it’s a smooth buss down wig with a middle part, an eye-catching updo, or intricate cornrows, Black movies have significantly influenced Black people’s overall being, especially regarding style and hair.

Keep reading to check out some of the most iconic Black movie hairstyles that have influenced an entire culture and will never get old.

RELATED CONTENT: Dove Launches Guide To Improve Black Hair Representation In Video Games

The post Iconic Black Hairstyles In Cinema That Changed The Culture appeared first on MadameNoire.