Tracee Ellis Ross' Fishtail Braid Is As Sleek As It Is Whimsical
Our take
The hairscape is constantly evolving, a reflection of shifting cultural currents and individual expressions of power. Tracee Ellis Ross’s recent appearance, showcasing a strikingly sleek fishtail braid, is a perfect example of this dynamic. It’s not merely a hairstyle; it’s a statement—a continuation of her established reign as a hair icon and a demonstration of the versatility inherent in textured hair. Ross has consistently challenged conventional beauty standards, embracing and celebrating her natural curls with an unapologetic confidence. This latest look, so different from her signature gravity-defying curls and intricate cornrows, highlights her ability to effortlessly navigate diverse styles while maintaining an air of effortless sophistication. It echoes a broader trend we're seeing within the luxury beauty space, a move towards celebrating individual expression and understated elegance, as exemplified by Hailey Bieber’s recent collaboration with Miu Miu Hailey Bieber Reunites With Miu Miu For Its Fall Campaign, where the focus is on personal style rather than overt branding.
What makes this fishtail braid particularly compelling is its paradoxical nature. It’s both incredibly intricate and visually simple, embodying a quiet luxury that resonates deeply with the current mood. The braiding technique itself requires considerable skill and precision, yet the final result appears almost effortless – a hallmark of true refinement. The placement at the crown, sweeping down the back, adds a regal quality, elevating the look beyond a casual hairstyle. This aligns with the broader conversation around intentionality in beauty – a move away from fleeting trends and towards considered choices that reflect an individual's inner world. We’ve observed a similar shift in consumer preferences towards foundational pieces, as reflected in the renewed interest in high-quality basics like activewear and undergarments Time to Re-Up on the Basics: The 25 Best New Activewear and Undergarment Arrivals, suggesting a desire for enduring style over disposable trends. The braid’s ability to seamlessly blend complexity and simplicity exemplifies this ethos.
The broader significance lies in Ross's continued ability to inspire and redefine beauty standards. She doesn’t just wear a hairstyle; she inhabits it, embodying a sense of self-assuredness that resonates with her audience. Her role as a founder of Pattern Beauty further solidifies her position as a tastemaker and a champion for inclusivity in the beauty industry. The braid, in its refinement and unexpectedness, becomes a visual metaphor for the multifaceted nature of feminine power—a power that isn’t about conforming to expectations but about owning one’s unique identity. It’s a reminder that beauty can be both strong and graceful, intricate and understated. Compare this to the rise of relatable personalities in entertainment, like Jack Martin Jack Martin Is Well Suited for This Moment, where authenticity and perceived normalcy are increasingly valued by audiences – there’s a parallel shift toward embracing genuine expression in all facets of public life.
Ultimately, Tracee Ellis Ross's fishtail braid is more than just a hairstyle; it’s a cultural moment. It’s a testament to the power of individual expression, the enduring appeal of quiet luxury, and the evolving definition of beauty. As the lines between high fashion and everyday style continue to blur, and as consumers increasingly prioritize authenticity and intentionality, what other unexpected hairstyles will emerge as symbols of modern femininity and self-assuredness, and how will brands adapt to meet this evolving landscape of personal style?
The thing about being a hair muse is, you’re always having to raise a bar you yourself set. Just ask Tracee Ellis Ross. The Pattern Beauty founder is famed for her gravity-defying curls, immaculate cornrows, and somehow making even playground staples look sophisticated. Every style is somehow even more inspiring than the last, and I’m happy to report that she has, in fact, done it again —this time with a thick, waist-grazing fishtail braid with some impressive texture.
Heading into a July 22 appearance on Live With Kelly and Mark, the actor — who is currently starring in the Broadway play Every Brilliant Thing — donned gauzy black pants and a draped sleeveless blouse (both Sportmax) with sleek black pumps by Jude. She paired the edgy-meets-whimsical outfit with an appropriately edgy-meets-whimsical hairstyle: A long, thick fishtail braid, placed at the crown of her head and sweeping down her back.
Along with the great lengths, the style stood out for its thick, shiny, and curly texture, which was especially evident at the ends. The look was kind of giving “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair — and while you’re at it, drop some deep conditioner recs, too.”
Indeed, fairy-tale braids have been having a moment — most notably, serving as the hairstyle genre of choice for Zendaya on her recent press tour for The Odyssey. “We’re seeing a shift back toward hairstyles that feel polished but effortless,” master hairstylist and amika pro educator Rashuna Durham told TZR earlier this month. “Fashion and beauty are embracing softer, more romantic silhouettes.”
That sense of romance was felt throughout the rest of Ross’ glam, too, which consisted of rosy, flushed cheeks, rose-gold lids, and a milky-white manicure.
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