Our ancestors probably never would have predicted what our lives look like now, much less the impact social media would have. Sure, Instagram is great to hop on to when you’re in an outfit-inspiration rut or looking to roust a chuckle from a good meme, but social media platforms have played a pivotal part in shifting cultural conversations, political movements, and trends (for good and bad). And while I too am addicted to Astro Twitter, I know the importance these platforms play beyond mindlessly scrolling.
We as consumers get to curate the content we consume, and through engaging with that content we show our support for the people, brands, and things that mean most to us. Following the right accounts can open you up to a world of inspiration and knowledge. Style inspo happens to be an added bonus. So for those looking to curate their feed a bit more, ahead, you’ll find eight women who are not only leading change and important conversations within the industry but also inspiring me on the daily. They're so damn fabulous they demand a follow.
Nana Agyemang, @itsreallynana
If you were to look up the definition of girl boss, you would find an image of Nana Agyemang next to it. She’s behind not only the often-witty, highly addictive social media for The Cut but also her own platform, EveryStylishGirl, which is dedicated to highlighting women of color and bringing them together through events. She’s the person you follow if you need some inspiration to embrace your own magic.
Naomi Elizée, @naomielizee
I’ll warn you now that Naomi Elizée serves beauty and fashion looks that are about to take up your whole saved section on Instagram. Beyond curating a beautiful feed, she works at Vogue as an associate market editor, and more recently she founded her own podcast, So…What Do You Do Again?, which is dedicated to highlighting the experiences of women of color in fashion. Basically, turn on your notifications for this woman.
Maya Allen, @mayaalenaa
Would you consider yourself a beauty fanatic? Then you must follow Maya Allen. She’s worked as a beauty editor for Byrdie and Cosmopolitan and is now a digital beauty editor for Marie Claire. Her beauty tips will change your life—and your lipstick game—and her feed will inspire you to live your best life.
Tahirah Hairston, @tahairy
The moment I spotted Teen Vogue’s feature shoot with Olivia Anakwe, my heart skipped a beat, and I felt that same way when I read the story. Beyond writing heart palpitation–inducing stories as the features director, Tahirah Hairston offers a unique perspective on culture, and she's worth a follow. She not only edits for All the Pretty Birds but also runs a fun Instagram account that compiles iconic looks from black films, which is, honestly, life-altering in and of itself.
Lindsay Peoples Wagner, @lpeopleswagner
Lindsay Peoples Wagner has been an inspiration to many, including myself. While most people probably recognize her now as the trailblazing force and editor in chief behind Teen Vogue, she’s always had that same energy. Who can forget her story for The Cut, in which she chronicled the experiences of black people in the fashion industry? Her work in many ways has made true journalism stylish again, and that’s something worth following.
Aurora James, @aurorajames
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of the designer behind Brother Vellies, but I’m not the only one. Even Beyoncé and Solange Knowles are fans. And honestly, who wouldn’t be a fan of Aurora James? Through her work, she’s championing sustainable and ethical fashion. Each piece she designs is handmade by artisans in various parts of Africa, and frankly, her thoughtful approach to everything she does is the epitome of black excellence.
Ade Samuel, @adesamuel
Who can forget when Michael B. Jordan wore that Louis Vuitton harness? If you’re not abreast of the woman behind that look, meet Ade Samuel. She’s the stylist behind Hollywood's best dressed stars including Letitia Wright, Big Sean, Idris Elba… Need I say more? But beyond her clientele, her work has been featured in H&M campaigns and on the covers of publications like Essence. Whether it’s a campaign, a client, or her personal approach to style, I assure you, following Samuel’s work will always surprise and delight you.
Chrissy Rutherford, @chrissyford
It wouldn’t be a list of people to follow in fashion without mentioning the work of Harper’s Bazaar editor Chrissy Rutherford. For over 10 years, she’s been paving the way and guiding us through each season’s trends, and beyond that, what’s most admirable about this woman is her candor throughout her journey. Never one to shy away from any topic, she’s shared everything from her mental health journey and career evolution to her reading list, birth chart, and favorite collections of the moment on her social account. Rutherford is the breath of fresh air every Instagram feed needs.
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