New York Knicks shooting guard Josh Hart has teamed up with Carol’s Daughter, a brand that has played a pivotal role in the Black women’s natural hair movement, to launch a campaign in honor of Black History Month. This initiative is an effort to celebrate the rich history of Black hair year-round. As the brand celebrates its 30th anniversary in the beauty industry, it’s making history again.
During a mid-game matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 10, Hart’s collab with Carol’s Daughter was the one making headlines. He modeled a fabulous new mane of hair, styled for him in a professional collaboration with famous braider Sandra Finn. The inventive coiffure was completed over the course of two hours, a testament to the artistry and care that went into the often-looked-over creations styled for Hart.
Carol’s Daughter has a long-standing partnership with Hart, regularly launching new styles when the playoffs are on or Hart is back in Houston. Founder Lisa Price expressed her admiration for the boldness of men embracing their hairstyles, noting the cultural significance of these expressions.
“It’s their choice [on how they wear their hair on their face and heads], hair is an accessory and it’s beautiful to see men embracing that accessory the same way that we have and just being so bold about it,” – Lisa Price
This year, the campaign delves more deeply into aesthetics. It is a powerful catalyst for discussion on matters of cultural identity and self-expression. Price urged us to get beyond the aesthetic debate, something we need to do even more today with all that’s going on in our society.
“I love when our forethought dovetails with everything that’s going on, and whether it’s a political statement or it’s a release, and a moment to smile in the middle of the turmoil that can sometimes be politics,” – Lisa Price
Josh Hart is pretty attached to his ships… er, hairstyles. His favorite is the stamp he designed in honor of New York.
“When I did the New York braids, that was an expression of how I really felt about New York,” – Josh Hart
He presented on the ways that living in the city inspired his creativity. This inspiration drove him to create a look that embodies the respect he has for the culture and community of ATL. Hart feels that today’s athletes can have a huge impact on younger generations with their self-expression, leading them to have the confidence to be themselves.
“Because they happen to be sports figures, that means somebody at school is like, well, if he’s doing it, I could do it. So I’ma do it,” – Lisa Price
Sandra Finn, who styled Hart’s wild coiffures with him and for him, emphasized their working relationship’s creative partnership.
“Josh is very open with me when it comes to his styles,” – Sandra Finn
Finn said Hart comes up with new concepts for different styles. She then takes those ideas, puts her unique creative stamp on them, and helps to make those visions a reality. Each style is a statement of personal aesthetic, yes, but speaks to the cultural climate at large.
With an eye toward countering a market where women’s brands have mostly taken root, Carol’s Daughter is still dedicated to helping men feel special. Even more noteworthy than size and scale is the fact that this initiative represents a profound shift in the beauty industry. Brands are beginning to appreciate and honor the different hairstyles and self-expressions for men.
The campaign’s designed inclusion of fellow Villanova alum Josh Hart, rolled out just before All-Star weekend, earned widespread acclaim. His now-viral photo making the “I love NY” hairstyle choice changed the campaign’s impact and reach.
“I’m grateful that we’re [in the conversation] and we’re in there the right way,” – Lisa Price
Through this new campaign, Carol’s Daughter continues to pay homage to the legacy of Black hair. They initiate new, critical dialogues about culture, identity, self-expression and more. The partnership with Hart exemplifies how sports figures can serve as ambassadors for cultural movements, inspiring others to embrace their heritage.
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