I Dressed Up to See Black Panther Because Representation Matters

If you need proof on why we need to see more diversity on our screens, let these numbers sit with you. During its second weekend in theaters, Black Panther has made over $700 million worldwide. Those numbers are completely unheard of when it comes to films that feature a predominantly black cast and tell stories about the black experience.

As I watched the film, the biggest thing that resonated with me is that women of color are at the center of everything. The Dora Milaje, an all female group of warriors, are Wakanda’s first line of defense. It’s Nakia, played by Lupita Nyong’o, that we see leading the fight to open Wakanda’s resources to outsiders. Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa is the king, but the women are the moving pieces that hold everything together.

Growing up, I never dreamed of seeing someone on TV who looked like me, let alone a superhero. Every single female character in Black Panther both embraces and celebrates her natural hair.

This inspired me to rock my natural afro and wear a dress that I picked up at an African style boutique.

Fenty Beauty’s bold lipstick and highlighter were two of the makeup products I trusted for this occasion. I decided to keep it simple and let my outfit do the talking. I stuck with hues of gold and brown to accentuate the gorgeous print on my dress. Once I was done applying, I felt like a QUEEN.

Here’s a breakdown of my look:

1. Primer

 

2. Highlighter

3. Eyeshadow

4. Mascara

5. Lipstick

6. Headscarf