HAIR TALK
Exploring Gen Z’s Relationship with Hair and Identity
DOVE
Dove has been on a mission to change beauty perceptions, and that includes hair. Gen Z has been dubbed “the largest and most diverse generation in U.S. history.” To capture this story in a photo-driven piece The New York Times newsroom profiled members of Gen Z who provided self-portraits that reflected their views about what makes them different.
For this generation, hair is seen as a vital part of expressing our identity and embracing diversity. As part of Unilever’s mission to help people feel good, look good and get more out of life, Dove is actively working to challenge hair stereotypes – whether in color, style or texture – and celebrate hair diversity. Not just by paving the way for unusual hair styles, but also by making a dent in the racial hair stereotypes that prevail in society and in the workplace.
With Hair Talks, we interviewed a number of young women in this generation who view hair as an expression of their individuality. We photographed each one as they spoke about their own personal journeys in which they've come to embrace their hair and were either inspired by their parents or came to inspire their parents. This branded content series explored how Gen Z relate to hair, their identity, and how this differs to their parent’s generation.
“As a kid, I had braids most of the time, whereas other girls had long, loose curls — that really played a role in my identity. I felt like I’m not pretty because I don’t have these long loose curls.” – Siera Oliver, 23
“I have a lot of anxiety and get very nervous when I have to speak my mind, but I would draw a lot, ever since I was little. I like expressing myself visually. I’ve always been interested in cartoon characters. I thought it was really cool that they have really unnatural hair color.” – Victoria Vigorito, 16
“I feel like my generation is on a mission to encourage women to embrace their natural forms. A a whole, I think my generation is definitely the most accepting of different kinds of people. I feel free in New York City to express myself, surrounded by people with different fashino styles, skin colors and hair textures.” – Caity McSween, 21
Outcome
7.4 million impressions
Studio: The New York Times / Creative Direction: Chomoi Picho-Owiny / Art Direction & Design: Caitlin Clancy / Writer: Jainnie Cho / Photography: famefamefame
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