Category: Beauty and Culture Exploration

Ever wondered how beauty is defined and celebrated differently across the globe? Actress and producer Andrea Lewis, the creative force behind Netflix’s ‘The Black Beauty Effect,’ is diving deep into this fascinating question with her brand-new docu-series, ‘GlamCulture.’ This isn’t just another beauty show; it’s a vibrant exploration of how culture shapes our understanding of glam and identity.

A Journey Through Four Cities

Premiering on Lewis’s own YouTube channel, ‘GlamCulture’ is a travel docu-series that kicks off with an episode dedicated to New York City. This first installment is the start of a four-city tour, with upcoming episodes set to explore Toronto, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. Each city was handpicked for its unique creative energy and distinct approach to beauty.

Lewis, who proudly calls the project ‘#indierealityTV’ due to its independent creation and financing, explains her inspiration: “I’ve always been a beauty girl.” After the success of ‘The Black Beauty Effect,’ she noticed how beauty standards varied so much depending on location. “I started to realize that beauty looks different depending on where you are—and that cultural perspective needed a platform,” she shared with ESSENCE.

Beauty as a Reflection of Identity

The series aims to showcase how ‘glam connects us’ and is celebrated in diverse ways, reflecting who we are. Lewis elaborates on the unique essence of each city featured:

• **New York:** Diversity fuels creativity, with each person bringing a unique background and energy.
• **Toronto:** Explores how heritage and the immigrant experience shape beauty rituals.
• **New Orleans:** Celebrates spirit and soul, with glam deeply tied to identity and joy.
• **Los Angeles:** Aims to look beyond Hollywood’s facade to reveal the authentic creative culture and roots.

Each episode features interviews with local stylists, influencers, and beauty professionals who share their insights and experiences. For instance, the New York episode includes a chat with celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway, a SheaMoisture ambassador.

Independent Storytelling with Impact

Lewis emphasizes the importance of independent storytelling, especially in a climate where conversations around DEI are sometimes scaled back. “I didn’t want to shrink the story. I wanted to tell it through my lens as a Black woman, authentically and unapologetically. The independent route gave me that freedom,” she states.

The series captures authentic, celebratory moments, from Carnival preparations in Toronto to ESSENCE Festival glam in New Orleans, highlighting the significant influence of Black and brown communities on global beauty culture. Lewis hopes viewers will reflect on their own beauty routines and traditions, asking themselves, “What’s the glam culture of your city? What’s your personal glam culture?”