Vogue Features an Actual Black Woman with Cornrows on Its Cover

The fashion industry seems determined to celebrate cornrows on everyone BUT black women. But Vogue Spain made a statement by featuring Ivorian-British model Aya Jones on its cover rocking the style with the tagline, “Black is Beautiful.”

There is no pain in the imagery, or frustration at seeing a non-black woman praised as edgy, cool or exotic for doing what is common for black women. Instead, it calls to mind a black beauty practice that is as much about community and tradition as it is about hair care.

The corresponding editorial is entitled “The Queen of Africa” and was shot in Botswana. Hair stylist Karim Belghiran shared an image on his Instagram page working on Jones’ hair with the help of local Botswana women;

“#bts @voguespain Botswana situations. When the time it’s against you and end up with an amazing team to do the cover look with @iamayajones Thanks to everybody in #jaocamp @belenantolin”

The editorial was shot by photographer Nico Bustos and styled by Belen Antolín. Makeup is by Jurgen Braun. Check out some of the stunning images.

See more images here. Ladies, what are your thoughts?