Yara Shahidi’s Sculptural Braids Are a Win at the 2019 CFDA Awards
Ever the style risk-taker, Yara Shahidi was right at home inside the Brooklyn Museum tonight at the CFDA Awards. There was her beautifully draped Monse ensemble, a ruched print turtleneck and high-waisted red trousers; her almond-shaped gaze swathed in crimson eyeshadow to match her look; and—most striking of all—the sculptural braided updo that floated behind her to entrancing effect.
Inspired by Diana Ross in 1975's Mahogany, hairstylist Nikki Nelms re-imagined one of the most iconic hair looks from the film, which saw the singer's dark mane slicked in the front with a backdrop of large hoops of hair entwined with vivid thread. "Instead of just pulling it back into a ponytail, I incorporated braids to make it more modern," explained Nelms, who after cornrowing Shahidi's lengths back vertically, wove delicate micro-braids around wire, then molded them into abstract, gravity-defying shapes.
The masterful style made for a mesmerizing view at every angle, transforming Shahidi into walking art as she presented Barbie with the Board of Director’s Tribute Award during the ceremony. Always one to watch with her otherwordly beauty and love for experimentation, the rising actress continues to be the ultimate muse.
Originally Appeared on Vogue
