Hype Hair Magazine, once an iconic staple in Black beauty salons, is making a triumphant comeback under the ownership of Lia Jones. As a Black woman entrepreneur and publisher, Jones is on a mission to revitalize the magazine, bringing a fresh and authentic voice to the forefront. At Essence Festival, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jones about her vision for Hype Hair Magazine and the significance of being a Black woman-owned publication in the beauty industry.
During our conversation, she emphasized the importance of moving beyond being solely an authority on Black hair. With a focus on authenticity and inclusivity, she aims to create a platform that celebrates the diversity of Black beauty in all its forms. Jones expressed her desire to curate new stories, features, and relationships that will resonate with readers and reflect the evolving landscape of beauty.
A New Era for Hype Hair:
As the owner of The Girl Cave Los Angeles, a chain of beauty supply stores and a lifestyle brand, Jones brings her entrepreneurial expertise to the table. Her passion for empowering women and promoting realistic beauty shines through her various ventures, including appearances on hit TV shows and features in renowned publications such as Forbes and Black Enterprise. With her acquisition of Hype Hair Magazine in March 2021, Jones is taking her commitment to empowering women to new heights.
The Essence Festival Connection:
Attending the Essence Festival was a pivotal moment for Jones and the Hype Hair team. The festival, a celebration of Black culture and excellence, provided the perfect platform to showcase their revitalized vision to a wider audience. They collaborated with African Pride, a staple haircare brand in the Black community to host events throughout the weekend. Jones expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to connect with readers, fans, and industry insiders at such a prestigious event. Essence Festival served as a testament to the magazine’s dedication to uplifting Black women and amplifying their voices.
As Hype Hair Magazine undergoes a transformation under the passionate ownership of Lia Jones, it is poised to become a leading voice in the Black beauty industry. Jones’s commitment to authenticity, inclusivity, and empowering women is evident in her vision for the magazine’s future. Attending Essence Festival allowed her to share this vision with a wider audience, highlighting the importance of representation and diversity in the beauty industry. With Hype Hair Magazine’s resurgence, readers can look forward to a publication that not only celebrates Black hair but also embraces the beauty and strength of Black women in all their forms.
To see the latest issue Hype Hair Magazine visit hypehair.com
Valese Jones
Photo Credit: Frederick Pritchett
