The beauty sector has evolved from an aspirational pursuit of perfection, to celebrating uniqueness and encompassing health and wellness. But as Gen Zers expect the products they buy to align with their values, beauty brands are having to go deeper below the surface to engage them.

The natural hair movement has seen many black women cast off their wigs, weaves and relaxers, yet the media’s focus on women with longer, looser curls has been obvious. Now, women are proudly opting for shorter, natural styles. How will this impact the black beauty industry?

Humour may not seem the safest strategy during a pandemic, but Maltesers has released a spot encouraging viewers to have a laugh at lockdown life. As people tire of empathetic brand messaging, shifting to a more light-hearted tone could help brands connect with pandemic-fatigued consumers.

Getting ‘real women’ to model beautiful lingerie wasn’t the done thing back in 2009, but then Lonely Lingerie came along. Now, after ten years in the business, the underwear brand has become a leading light for body positivity and an industry force to be reckoned with.