Relating to visual storytelling, fashion is all the time integral to executing the vision successfully. From campaigns and music videos to celebrity wardrobes and magazine covers, the stylist is all the time a key player. We’ve witnessed fashion legends like Misa Hylton and Law Roach transform culture and propel celebrities into icon status with their creative gifts, and although they perform behind the scenes, their work is deserving of public recognition.

Here at ESSENCE, we’ve all the time championed Black creativity and honored OG’s like Hylton, Roach, Patti Wilson, Derek Lee, Jason Rembert, Kollin Carter and others alike. Nevertheless, it’s time to highlight the brand new vanguard of Black stylists who’re behind a few of today’s best fashion moments and creating latest waves.

Within the realms of stage styling, personal wardrobing and editorial, these 7 stylists are taking charge and must be in your radar.

KJ Moody 

Moody is a Texas native, who’s currently a Creative Manager and Stylist at Parkwood Entertainment. Previously, he styled Kelly Rowland and now he’s behind Beyonce’s wardrobe and lots of other Parkwood projects like Ivy Park – see how Moody styled Beyoncé for an Italian getaway. 

Naya Ashley

Naya Ashley is the “it girl” behind the wardrobe of social media’s favorite “it girls”. Her clients include De’arra Taylor, Dess Dior, Jordyn Woods, and more.

Mars Barnes

Next to each major stylist is a killer team of stylist assistants. Barnes spends his days alongside Kollin Carter styling Cardi B, Ciara, and Normani along with taking over his own styling projects.

Christine Nicholson 

Nicholson is a quiet storm in the style industry. She’s styled high fashion magazine editorials, fashion campaigns and created stellar looks for supermodel Anok Yai and musical icon Jazmine Sullivan.

Todd White

White is an Ohio native that began his styling profession with one among Houston’s hottest rappers, Megan The Stallion. Since then, his client roster has evolved to incorporate Baby Tate, Coi Leray, and Latto.

Daniel Jones Jr. 

Jones is a rising stylist that has worked with among the most famous celebrities including Usher, Rick Ross, Serena Williams, Vanessa Hudgens, and Bel-Air co-star Olly Sholotan.

Roberto Johnson 

Johnson recently joined Latest York Magazine’s The Cut as Fashion Market Editor. He’s styled editorials for publications like Vogue Mexico, Glamour, L’Officiel Paris, and others. Johnson has also been the important thing stylist for Brandon Blackwood campaigns.