Black Opal urges women to defy beauty stereotypes, myths

NEW YORK — Multicultural beauty brand Black Opal has introduced a new multimedia campaign, called "I Define My Beauty," aimed at empowering, engaging and inspiring women of all complexions to express their individuality and embrace their unique look and defy stereotypes of beauty.



According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans who are made up of two or more races increased 32% between 2000 and 2010 at a minimum and only continues to rise. Multicultural beauty is now more than a "diversity" catchall; it's an evolution that addresses the multidimensional and multilayered needs of women whose ethnicities and cultures are mixing together, making up today's blended beauty.



"I Define My Beauty is about rejecting the stereotypes and myths that other people put on you. It's a movement to educate women of all complexions, ethnicities and ages to take chances and feel confident — whether they go for subtle mauve or saturated fuchsia, the choice is yours not someone else’s,” said Black Opal artistic director Merrell Hollis.



"I Define My Beauty" kicks off with a video featuring Hollis and other beauty professionals in New York City discussing their own definitions of beauty. The makeup pros tackle myths and stereotypes and discuss how their clients choose self-expression and creativity to make their own personal style statement, instead of relying on old-fashioned notions of beauty do's and don'ts. 

Throughout the "I Define My Beauty" campaign, Black Opal will be encouraging women to join in the conversation via social media by following the conversation on Twitter and Instagram @blackopalbeauty and participate by sharing their I Define My Beauty stories using the hashtag #IDefineMyBeauty.