There was a different energy about New York City last Friday night—and not just because it was the unofficial first Friday of Summer. The warm evening served up a special celebration for one of the industry's most beloved hairstylists—Jawara Wauchope—who hosted a star-studded party at Silencio in honor of his 40th birthday. Guests like Solange, Paloma Elsesser, Riccardo Tisci, and Anok Yai made their way down Silencio's famed alleyway into a jumping dancehall bash.
Some were spotted dancing to upbeat mixes by DJs Olivia Dope and Boxa Hype. Other partygoers made their way to the bar, where custom cocktails featuring liquors by Belvedere, Hennessy, and Ten to One Rum. In between mixing, mingling, and bites of birthday cake, all in attendance made sure to take a pic at the photo booth.
Dubbed J|40, Jawara required a celebration worthy of not only a milestone birthday but also a career in full swing. If you have the pleasure of speaking with Jawara about his craft, you’ll understand that hair, to him, is the way he views the world; turning styles up a notch to help its wearer, and its viewer, feel something. Throughout his career, he's leaned his mastery to some of fashion, beauty, and culture's greatest manes—sculptural braids on Solange, afro-bouffants on Tracee Ellis Ross, slick kiss curls on Yai.
After just one experience with him, you'll understand why he's so acclaimed—and why so much of his family, friends, and peers stepped out to celebrate him. The entire roo.
