9 Gender Nonconforming and Non-Binary BIPOC Beauty Influencers to Follow
The beauty industry has long been scrutinized by Black and Brown communities for the lack of representation and inclusion. Especially within the last year – amidst the broader cultural reckoning of racism and misogyny – the beauty industry has had to do better, to put it simply. Just last year, former Glossier employees demanded change through a letter outlining the racism they experienced.
As the dust settles and the beauty industry returns to its churning of trends, gone are the days of sculpted cheekbones and blinding highlights. With open arms, we welcome this new age of beauty that beckons us to play and experiment with color, shapes and texture. As we enter into this new age of beauty, we’re sharing 10 gender nonconforming and non-binary beauty influencers that are blurring the line between fine art and makeup.
Photo via @daintyfunk
Maud Acheampong is a multidisciplinary artist behind the aesthetic movement dainty funk. They seek to “marry the world of the grotesque and the world of the beautiful.” This aesthetic pervades throughout their work across various mediums, including makeup looks, film and poetry.
Photo via @itsbrandoncross
Brandon David Cross is a beauty expert and actor. Their makeup looks can range from glittery, colorful, glowy everyday looks to editorial and costume looks.
3. Umber Ghauri
Photo via @umberghauri
Umber Ghauri is a published professional makeup artist based in London that works almost exclusively with queer people, trans people and people of color. Their looks can be seen on a variety of artists, including Mykki Blanco and Travis Albanza.
4. Myla
Photo via @pradaolic
Myla is an editorial creator, artist and model. They are well recognized for their colorful, graphic looks as well as their full-face looks with designs inspired by brands like Commes des Garçons, Lacoste and Hello Kitty.
5. Autumn Cain
Photo via @looksbyotto
Autumn Cain is an Illinois-based makeup artist whose makeup looks range from your local fairy to bold graphic looks with the cutest freckles.
6. Chime
Photo via @_chimedolker
Chime is a Washington-based makeup artist whose looks always come through with a pop of color and can range anywhere from whimsical and graphic to softly blended gradients.
7. Khai
Photo via @blackbirdkhai
Photo by @gabbydecos via @iiiin3ssss
Ines is a Los Angeles-based makeup artist whose looks are rooted in bold graphic, often symmetrical, lines and shapes with an occasional clownesque flair.
9. Jacinda
Photo by @adultsdrink
Jacinda is a Los Angeles-based makeup artist and creator who uses bold color blocking in her looks. Their makeup expands beyond their eyes and includes glossy gradient lip looks.
Written by Chantal Vaca
Header graphic by Adeline Yu
