Hey there! Let’s talk about an iconic moment that celebrated natural beauty in a big way. On the cover of the December 2018/January 2019 issue of Essence, Michelle Obama absolutely slayed, flaunting her stunning natural hair. Thanks to her talented hairstylist, Yene Damtew, Michelle traded her usual long, sleek locks for a look that truly highlighted her natural beauty. This wasn’t just a hairstyle—it was a powerful statement.
And guess what? Michelle Obama seems to have upgraded her engagement ring, too. Want to know all about her stunning new piece? We’ve got the exclusive details right here!
According to Yene Damtew, this was more than just a cover shoot. It was an opportunity to showcase something meaningful. “It was an important moment for us to highlight because she does wear her hair natural,” Yene revealed to The Zoe Report. “We’ve seen those candid tabloid snapshots of her on vacation or at Martha’s Vineyard with her natural texture. But this time, we decided to make it a deliberate choice for the cover. It was something she wanted to highlight.”
Read also:Unveiling Carriejune Anne The Rising Star Redefining Entertainment
View this post on Instagram“Before anyone in Tennessee or Montana knew who Barack Obama was, I was vice-president at a major hospital, juggling two little girls…I’m not going to lie: It wasn’t always easy for me.” @michelleobama is speaking TRUTH in the new issue of ESSENCE. On stands 11/23. (📷: @millermobley) #EssenceEst1970
Why This Cover Shoot Matters
Michelle, now 54, wanted her Essence cover to emphasize the beauty of embracing one’s natural self. With the release of her memoir, Becoming, she opened up about her journey in a way that resonated deeply with fans. It only made sense for her to show the world just how beautiful she is without relying on straightened hair. This cover wasn’t just a style choice—it was a celebration of authenticity.
“This was definitely a significant moment for Mrs. Obama,” Yene explained. “As the former First Lady of the United States and the first Black First Lady, being on the cover of a major publication with her natural hair carries immense weight. It’s about representation and inspiring others to embrace their true selves.”
The Stylist Behind the Look
Yene Damtew’s journey with Michelle began when she was an assistant to Michelle’s former hairstylist, Johnny Wright. Over time, Yene became a trusted partner in Michelle’s beauty routine. One of her key contributions? Convincing Michelle to stop using chemicals to straighten her hair.
Read also:Nala Ray Onlyfans Leak The Untold Story Behind The Viral Sensation
“I had clients like Mrs. Obama’s family, and I wanted to show that it’s possible to train your hair to do anything you need it to do without relying on chemicals,” Yene shared. “I always knew that styling hair naturally was my passion.” For the Essence cover, Yene achieved the look by finger curling Michelle’s hair and applying heat. The result? A stunning, effortless style that lets Michelle’s natural texture shine.
Final Thoughts
This cover shoot wasn’t just about fashion—it was about empowerment. Michelle Obama continues to inspire us all to embrace our true selves, and her choice to showcase her natural hair on such a prominent platform is a testament to her enduring influence. So, let’s celebrate this moment and remember the power of authenticity.
