A picture of a black J. Crew model has been circulating the Internet and causing confusion for some, and outrage for others.
J. Crew….. girl…. y’all wrong. pic.twitter.com/M25MHbrb3L
— Daë Louise ???????? (@UnordinaryDae) November 9, 2017
The advertisement shows a black model with unkempt hair, attempted to be pulled into a bun. We all know that black folks don't play about our hair. And while natural hair is beautiful, people felt like this was doing a disservice rather than showcasing our natural beauty.
*ABOUT TO GO AWF* @jcrew Why do you have these black models on here looking like they have been fighting for sunflower seeds and rain water? Are y’all wanting to become the new @Dove ? #JesusBeANonOffensiveAd
#JesusBeAGoodHairstylist
#JesusBeABetterChoice
#dove
#melaninmatters
pic.twitter.com/OtWqlIHsPG— YoungGordonParks (@DarcellBios) November 10, 2017
ole girl in that J. Crew ad wasn’t a “messy bun” that was just pure neglect
— $uccubitch (@oddbri_xo) November 12, 2017
Really feel like you’re missing the point, Carly. There are no crabs here. I’m saying that JCrew should’ve done better by this model. Look at the others in the shoot. Companies have a history of not putting our best foot forward.
— April (@ReignOfApril) November 10, 2017
Some people pushed the issue that black girls aren't allowed to have a messy look in the same way that their white counterparts are without it being a big deal.
Not all but some. J Crew is actually known for models with tousled hair. Many of their models get that undone hair look. ???????? pic.twitter.com/0Sn8zA1T6v
— Erica H (@HazelGoddess) November 10, 2017
However, maybe the bigger issue is a lack of black stylists who know how to make even a "messy look" on black hair look good.
Except, this is not the way to do a controlled messy look for black hair, in a professional shoot. This reeks of "I don't know how to handle black hair".
— Kadeen Waldron (@Kittya_Cullen) November 10, 2017
Model Mari Henny took to Instagram to let people know that she didn't have a problem so we shouldn't either.
J. Crew has also since provided an apology.
J.Crew strives to represent every race, gender, and background. We sincerely apologize for the styling of this model and the offense that was caused. We assure you that we are taking steps to address it, and to prevent this from happening again.
— J.Crew (@jcrew) November 10, 2017
What are your thoughts? Is there a fear of how black people are portrayed in media to the point that we aren't even allowed to have a messy look? Or was that look just straight trash and a terrible representation? Is the issue deeper than this J. Crew ad? Let us know what you're thinking in the comments below.
