The post Beauty Crush Wednesday: Cree Summer appeared first on The Fashion Bomb Blog : Celebrity Fashion, Fashion News, What To Wear, Runway Show Reviews.
It was impossible to fall in love with the undeniably beautiful and quirky Freddie Brooks on A Different World, played the equally gorgeous and charming Cree Summer. Her laidback, bohemian style and curls that have a life of their own were irresistible then and still mesmerize us to this day.
The actress and singer was born in LA, but was raised on the Red Pheasant Reserve in Saskatchewan, Canada. Cree grew up with a love for music and acting in her household as her father, Don Francks, was an actor, vocalist and jazz musician. Her mother, Lili Red Eagle, was a member of the Plains Cree First Nations: the reason behind her name and her love for nature.
Before her beauty made its mark, Cree’s voice became a star as she was cast as Penny on the original cartoon version of famed show Inspector Gadget in the early 80’s. Five years later, she was cast as the character we all know and love, Freddie Brooks, on A Different World and she was a cast member until the show’s end in 1993. Her character’s free spirit was right in line with Cree’s, which was why it felt so authentic. Cree went on to also be the voice of beloved Rugrats character, Susie Carmichaels.
The same year that marked the end of A Different World, was the year Cree unofficially released an album with her band, Subject to Change. The group was known for its blend of rock and soul, as well as a poignant political message. In 1999, she released her first solo album with help from her friend who has since become a rock legend, Lenny Kravitz. She then became the opening act for Lenny’s tour.
Cree’s portrayal of Freddie Brooks was a major influence in changing the way African-American women viewed and embraced their natural hair. When I decided to go natural four years ago, she was one of my inspirations, especially for hair color as she has had her curls dark brown, auburn, and blonde.
She never opts for much makeup and who would need it with such flawless skin and hair that turns heads all on its own? Fashion-wise Cree can always be spotted in boho chic looks including printed maxi dresses, peasant blouses, and chic denim ensembles.
If the “carefree black girl” movement had a President, we’re quite sure Cree and best friend, Lisa Bonet, would share the title. In an age in which more and more women are simultaneously embracing their natural hair, but also opting for some startling plastic surgery, Cree is a representation of just how amazing an embrace of your natural beauty can be, along with the confidence of unabashed and unapologetic self-expression.
Is Cree Summer your beauty crush?
The post Beauty Crush Wednesday: Cree Summer appeared first on The Fashion Bomb Blog : Celebrity Fashion, Fashion News, What To Wear, Runway Show Reviews.