![\"\"](\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/?s=96&d=mm&r=g\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p>\n
It\u2019s no secret that Essence Festival 2026 performer<\/a> Latto is entering a new era. Last week, the Columbus, Ohio-born rapper announced her<\/a> pregnancy, new album, Big Mama<\/em><\/a>, and music video for single \u201cBusiness & Personal.\u201d We, along with fans, to no surprise, are buzzing. But, these milestones aren\u2019t the only things catching our attention when it comes to the performer. Latto\u2014who is known for doing her own makeup\u2014always has head-turning glam and hair looks that have long-been stopping us in our tracks. And her beauty moments in this new chapter are no different.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n When it came to her album cover shoot\u2014where Latto was found in french-tips, a sleek high ponytail, sultry makeup, and outfit styled by UmaLu Vintage<\/a>\u2014the inspiration was all about \u201ckeeping it clean but snatched,\u201d says her trusted hairstylist, and NOLA-native, Ashanti Lation<\/a>. \u201cWe went with a sleek, fluffy long ponytail that felt polished but still soft and edgy. The goal was to not overpower the moment. Everything about the hair was clean, elevated, and timelessly beautiful.\u201d And we couldn\u2019t agree more.\u00a0<\/p>\n For the music video, Lation mentions, \u201cwe had more room to play and really tap into different energies.\u201d From big, voluminous curls \u201cthat gave drama and body,\u201d to long waves \u201cthat felt soft and feminine.\u201d Additionally, of course, there was \u201csuper sleek long straight hair with flips for that bold, confident edge.\u201d And, last but not least, \u201ca short Barbie-inspired ponytail that brought a fun, playful vibe,\u201d she shares. Altogether, \u201cit was all about range and making sure the hair matches each scene.\u201d<\/p>\n As magical as it all seems, bringing the looks to life takes technique and skill. \u201cWhen it comes to products and techniques, I always start with a strong foundation,\u201d she says. That means, she\u2019s prepping her hair with products from her own brand, VIPHairCare. <\/a>These ensure \u201cthe hair is hydrated, protected, and ready for styling.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n\n After prep, she sticks to salon quality styling products. Insert things like the brushable holding spray by Amika and the flexible working spray by Sebastian. \u201cTechnique wise, it is all about precision. Clean parts, flawless installs when adding length, and using heat in a controlled way to create shine, movement, and longevity without compromising the health of the hair.\u201d<\/p>\n Beyond styling, the vibes on set are always the perfect balance of energetic vibes and professionalism. \u201cThere is a real sense of teamwork, everyone is locked in, but we are also having fun,\u201d Lation notes. \u201cGood music, good energy, and a shared goal to create something special.\u201d<\/p>\n And, when it comes to what Lation has loved most about working on these projects? \u201cI appreciate the level of trust Latto gives her team,\u201d she shares. \u201cThat makes it possible to bring big visions to life in an authentic way.\u201d These sentiments echo what Lation values most about Latto in general. \u201cI love her confidence and her consistency. She shows up as her full self every time, and that makes the creative process effortless,\u201d Lation says. \u201cShe knows her brand, she knows her look, and she brings an energy that makes you want to go even harder creatively.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n