African American Hair News

Celebrating black hair in a big way, many people gathered for “Limitless,” the ninth annual hair and fashion show hosted by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. on Friday at Wharton Center’s Pasant Theatre.

Showcasing the many facets of black hair, including natural, corporate and high fashion, the event was an outlet of creativity for black women and their hair, said Lenae McCullough, a media arts and technology junior and co-host for the event.

“Hair makes who you are, it defines you as a person,” she said. “I appreciate the fact that (the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.) actually (presented) a hair show where you can see different styles and hairdos because it’s a great way to express yourself.”

One of the largest hair and fashion shows on campus, the event sold about 650 tickets and raised about $5,000 to support future events, such as the fall scholarship pageant, said Harold Hill, a mechanical engineering senior and co-chair for the event.

“Black hair is extravagant,” he said. “It’s the culture. It’s (also) one of the only select few fashion shows on this campus (and) a lot of people enjoy it.”

 Gallery: Alpha Phi Alpha ...  Video: Hair Logic The show was divided into nine segments including corporate ensembles, African-inspired couture and a collection incorporating recyclable materials.

With a staff of 40 models, several hair stylists and sponsors, including American Apparel, 115 E. Grand River Ave., DEFYE and designer Henry Spencer with his line “Golden Hanger,” the preparation for the show took a lot of work, Hill said.

“Auditions take place in the middle in January, and the models start practicing from early January to April, twice a week,” he said. “Models have to do a series of walks, (including) walks with spins, group walks and (walks that exhibit their personality).”

The show attracted people interested in fashion, such as Quentin Sanders, a music sophomore.

“Hair is an important aspect with fashions because when you’re in fashion, you’re like your own diva,” he said. “To get your diva on, you have to have your hair right.”

Show spectator Marcia Teer, a Flint, Mich., resident, recalled a time when black women wore natural styles as a symbol of pride.

“Our hair is the epitome of — it’s our crown and glory,” she said. “We have short, we have long, we have straight, we have braids and it doesn’t take anything away from us.”