Celebrating Black Beauty, Honoring Industry Icons, and Empowering the Future of Braiding
On October 10, 2026, Vivace by KISS and VIVATRESS joined the beauty community in Atlanta to celebrate Black beauty, braiding artistry, and the next generation of beauty professionals through the VIVATRESS Student Summit, Fantasy Student Braiding Competition, and Beauty Icon Awards, presented in partnership with Bronner Bros.
Empowering the Next Generation
The VIVATRESS Student Summit and Fantasy Student Braiding Competition gave beauty students the opportunity to showcase their creativity, learn from industry leaders, and connect with a community that celebrates their potential.
Each braid reflected the individuality, dedication, and artistry of its creator. Through these experiences, VIVATRESS continues to champion emerging talent and encourage the next generation of beauty professionals to pursue their ambitions.
And the Winners Are…
After a day of breathtaking fantasy braided looks, three students took home top honors and cash prizes:
- 1st Place — Lashawn B., Atlanta Technical College: $3,500
- 2nd Place — Rickeisha H.: $1,500
- 3rd Place — Rici’ya G.: $500
Celebrating Our Top 20 Finalists
Every finalist brought a one-of-a-kind vision to the stage. To celebrate their talent, each of our Top 20 finalists received a $500 gift from Vivatressusa.com. Congratulations to:
- Lyric A.
- Tanautika A.
- Nevaeh B.
- Lashawn B.
- Nyla B.
- Shuntina C.
- Destiny C.
- Lashawna D.
- Alexus F.
- Azaria G.
- Rici’ya G.
- Rickeisha H.
- Asia H.
- Khadija J.
- Shamorris M.
- Shaniya M.
- Farrah S.
- Akerah W.
- Antoinette W.
- Jheia W.
Honoring Beauty Industry Icons
The Beauty Icon Awards recognized the artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries whose contributions continue to shape Black beauty.
Vivace by KISS was proud to celebrate Xia Charles, Derrick Rutledge, and Sydney Carter for their impact on the beauty industry. By bringing established icons and emerging talent together, the event honored the industry’s legacy while celebrating the possibilities ahead.
VIVATRESS: Supporting the Artistry of Braiding
At Vivace by KISS, we believe the traditions that shape our culture deserve continued innovation.
VIVATRESS was created to support the artistry of braiding with thoughtfully developed braiding hair and essential products designed with the needs of today’s braiding community in mind.
Through our partnership with Bronner Bros., we are proud to celebrate industry leaders, create opportunities for emerging talent, and support the culture and community that make braiding an enduring part of Black beauty.
Different Paths. One Heritage.
The celebration in Atlanta reflects a shared commitment to honoring our roots, empowering the next generation, and moving braiding culture forward together.
Vivace by KISS and VIVATRESS look forward to continuing to support the artists, students, and communities shaping the future of beauty.
VIVATRESS — The New Era of Braids
Vivace by KISS — Celebrating Our Heritage. Empowering the Next Generation.
