Written By: Trish B.
In a world where elegance, grit, and history converge, Starr Andrews glides forward—not just as a figure skater, but as a cultural force. As Hype Hair celebrates its 35th anniversary, there is no better cover star than this unstoppable trailblazer, whose name is more than fitting. Starr is a rising icon, making her mark both on and off the ice with passion, poise, and purpose.
From her very first twirl, Starr Andrews captivated audiences with an undeniable presence. Now a nationally ranked U.S. figure skater and a proud member of Team USA, she’s not just chasing dreams—she’s carving new paths. With her eyes set on the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, Starr is on a mission to make history as the first African American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating. It’s a dream that transcends sport—it’s about legacy.
Her journey, however, is paved with more than medals. A true multi-hyphenate, Starr’s artistry reaches far beyond the rink. She’s a gifted musician—fluent in piano and ukulele—and a powerhouse vocalist who has performed her own singing during both the 2018 and 2022 U.S. National Championships. Her performances are not just routines; they are expressions of identity, emotion, and resilience.
That resilience is woven deep into her story. Raised by a mother who survived an astonishing 13 heart attacks, Starr learned early on the meaning of strength, perseverance, and giving back. Her heart beats just as fiercely for community as it does for competition. A passionate advocate, she lends her voice to causes that matter—partnering with the American Heart Association, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and mentoring youth through programs like 24 Degrees of Color, Figure Skaters of Harlem, and Unity Ice.
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With every spin, jump, and statement, Starr champions mental health, diversity, and self-esteem, proving that true beauty is bold, unfiltered, and fearless. It’s no wonder she has earned accolades such as the prestigious A.A.A. Award, the Skatingly Yours Mabel Fairbanks Award, and recognition from the Women’s Sports Foundation.
Her accolades are historic: the first African American to medal at an ISU Grand Prix Event and the first to stand on the U.S. Nationals podium in over 35 years since the legendary Debi Thomas. But Starr isn’t skating in anyone’s shadow. She is building her own empire—one that inspires the next generation of Black girls to take up space, defy expectations, and rewrite the narrative.
At Hype Hair, we have always celebrated the beauty, brilliance, and breakthrough moments of Black women across the globe. As we toast 35 years of iconic covers, bold style, and unapologetic Black excellence, we honor Starr Andrews—not just for what she’s achieved, but for who she is: a modern-day heroine, skating toward gold and leading with grace.
Here’s to Starr—the face of the future, the heart of the movement, and the embodiment of everything we celebrate at Hype Hair.
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Will Utely @wutlife
INFOLD PHOTOGRAPHER: Sasha Hepburn – Markwins Beauty Brands, Inc.
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MUA: Tamara Boyd @elevate_makeup
HAIR: Gabrielle Bates @king.onyx1
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