In light of People Magazine dropping their annual “Beautiful” issue, we thought it fitting to drop a list of our own beautifully Black list to celebrate the stars and icons both old and new that continue to bless the world with their talent, looks, style, grace and much more.
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While this list can (and probably will) go on forever—let’s face it, Black people are a gorgeous people, we won’t run out for a LONG TIME—let’s start off with the queen of Fenty Beauty herself Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty.
From her signature cupid’s bow to her many fashion/beauty eras that were often imitated but never duplicated, Rihanna has set a standard in beauty that’s unmatched. Whether she’s slaying on a red carpet or killing it in simple street style—or swatching her latest offerings from her Fenty Beauty empire—it’s true what they say: that Rihanna reign just won’t let up! And we don’t want it to!
Thanks People, but we’ll take it from here.
Tracee Ellis Ross
Between her workout videos, her first of Summertime dips and effortless style—it’s absolutely a no-brainer that Tracee Ellis Ross is on this list. (I’ve decided I’m going to be her when I grow up.)
Halle Berry
Somebody call Hurricane Chris! This was such an obvious choice and I shouldn’t have to point you to the myriad of reasons why—just LOOK AT HER. It’s Halle Berrrrrrrrrrayyyyyy, Halle Berry!
Teyana Taylor
Face Card? Never declines. Body? Tea. Talent? Exqusite. Style? Unmatched. There is simply no one as sexy as Teyana Taylor and anybody who dares disagree can sit over in the corner and think about why their wrong until they get as many abs as Tey has.
Michael Ealy
Micahel Ealy has been fine my entire life and that’s at minimum 30 years so God bless his good genes and his mom and dad.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II
With a name like Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, there’s a high probability that the man carrying it will be worthy of it and thankfully for us all—the Topdog/Underdog star is exactly that. And don’t get me started on his physique and Colgate smile. God did his big one when he made him!
Nia Long
There’s no way I wasn’t going to include 90's-forever fine Nia Long. I don’t know how she’s continuing to look better with each passing year but the minute I find out, I’ll circle back and let y’all know!
Idris and Sabrina Elba
I. along with thousands of other women on the planet, will forever be grateful that Sabrina Elba saw fit to share her hubby Idris with the rest of his internet wives. To be affiliated with this beautiful couple, if only through a parasocial relationship, will put a smile to anyone’s face. Just look at them!
Deborah Ayorinde
I will forever be grateful for “Girls Trip” for putting Deborah Ayorinde on a big screen like that so that the masses could see how INSANELY gorgeous she is. I haven’t gotten over it since then and I’m still on the hunt for her signature red lip combo. (Deborah, if you’re reading this, please put me on tysm!)
Lori Harvey
Lori Harvey is yet another woman, like Nia Long, who’s been named in numerous rap songs for her beauty, imitated by others for her style, and loved by many for her lifestyle and entrepreneurial endeavors. And who can blame them? Face card never declines!
Megan Thee Stallion
To quote Megan Thee Stallion herself: “Been that bitch. Still that bitch. Will forever be that bitch.”
Chloe and Halle Bailey
Talk about sisters who stand together! And look gorgeous while doing it, never mind the fact that both their voices can bring anybody to tears. Chloe and Halle Bailey remain the one and the two!
LL Cool J
Do I really need to say it? LL Cool J has had women everywhere under a spell ever since he first licked his lips and told the world he needed love. We’ve been pining ever since!
Ncuti Gatwa
Can we hear a little commotion for Ncuti Gatwa’s skin? Now, how about the smile? As a matter of fact, let’s just keep it going all around for his talent and willingness to call out white mediocrity, too!
Issa Rae
Our favorite “Awkward Black Girl” may have started off a little “Insecure”—but rest assured Issa Rae is all confidence, beauty, style, grace and whipsmart. And that’s hella, fantastic AF, to see okay?!
Aldis Hodge
I’m still waiting on the day they cast Aldis Hodge as the lead in a sexy rom-com (yes, I saw “What Men Want” but I wanted more Aldis!). I mean look at him—a MAN of both smarts, looks, and talents. Stop being stingy, Hollywood!
Robin Thede
What a face you have, Robin Thede! That coupled with her hilarious sense of humor and “girl’s girl” personality makes her an all around 10!
Beyoncé
I’d be an absolute dummy if I didn’t include Queen Bey on this list. Let’s not pretend she hasn’t been one of the most beautiful women in the world for the last two decades.
Queen Latifah
The only other queen we acknowledge now and forever! Dana “Queen Latifah” Owens will always reign supreme.
Tessa Thompson
I mean...do I really have to say much here? It’s Tessa Thompson, her essence alone is off the richter scale.
Aaron Pierre
I know this might sound hyperbolic, but all Aaron Pierre has to do is just breath and the whole world swoons. And don’t even get me started on his poise and British accent. Exquisite.
Kelvin Harrison Jr.
What’s not to love about Kelvin Harrison Jr.? His smile? His eyes? His acting range? His bubbly personality and breadth of insight in interviews? He’s got it all.
Viola Davis
Undeniable beauty. Queen. Mother. Icon. Legend. Badass. Fly woman. Those are just a few words to describe the phenomenal woman that is Viola Davis. Though her talent and beauty are off the charts, if we had to rate, I’d say she’s a 1000000/10.
Aja Naomi King
A beauty amongst beauties with a range of talent that deserves far more screen time than she’s currently getting: Aja Naomi King, how does it feel to be God’s favorite??!
Morris Chestnut
I’m fully convinced that when God ran out of the type of fine He made Morris Chestnut with because I haven’t been able to find another yet that comes close! A man of both looks and good morals and talents, Morris you will always be famous.
Michael B. Jordan
Whether he’ll ever admit it or not, the “B” in “Michael B. Jordan” stands for “bae” because he’s been one of the internet’s boyfriends for forever. Between his stellar smile, killer physique, and natural talent and charm—this a love affair we don’t ever want to see end!
Regina King
The only King we acknowledge is Regina King, okay? Regina BEEN King, Regina Thee King. Whatever you’ve nicknamed her, we hard agree. This generational beauty and talent is one that deserves to reign forever!
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