There’s bravolebrities and then there’s Ciara Miller. She got her start on “Summer House,” as a breakout, but she’s bopped around the network and beyond, cementing herself as a fan-favorite with an audience that transcends reality television.
Now, Miller’s a full-fledged fashion and media darling, and her appearances at this year’s BravoCon 2025 showed it. Each day Miller delivered campaign-ready looks, in particular with her hair by longtime hairstylist Sade Milinda. Read on for our conversation with Milinda about how she and Miller first met, their process, how she preps for events like BravoCon, and more.
How did you first link up with Ciara and when did you know you’d booked BravoCon ’25?
Sade Milinda: Ciara and I first connected back in 2022 at the headquarters of a hair extension brand we were both working with. She was looking for a hairstylist, and I happened to be on set that day. I did her hair once, and we immediately clicked — the chemistry was just there. From that point on, we’ve been working together ever since.
To the extent that you’re able, tell us what it was like to plan for BravoCon!
Milinda: Planning for BravoCon is actually pretty smooth for us because Ciara and I have been working together for a while, so we have a great rhythm. We usually start talking about her hair about two weeks out — big-picture decisions like whether she wants to go short, long, braids, color, or if we’re switching up lengths throughout the weekend. The detailed planning really happens day-of once we see the outfits, and that’s when we narrow down the exact styles. My kit is always fully stocked because I need to be prepared for absolutely anything. I keep it simple but comprehensive — shears, curling irons, flat irons, and all the essentials — so I can pivot quickly and make whatever change is needed in the moment.
Given the intense scrutiny on Black women and their hair, did you feel any additional pressure going into BravoCon?
Milinda: No, I didn’t feel any added pressure going into BravoCon. I know how Ciara likes to wear her hair, and more importantly, I know she trusts me to make her look and feel her best. Because of that trust and the relationship we’ve built, I never worry about her stepping out in a big setting and feeling scrutinized about her hair — that’s just not going to happen on my watch. My priority is always to make sure she walks out confidently, no matter the stage or the audience. We keep an open line of communication, and she always has the final say, which makes the process feel collaborative rather than pressured.
Which was your favorite look from the 3 days?
Milinda: My favorite look from the three days was definitely Day Two, when we did the big, bouncy Farrah Fawcett curls. It was so flirty, girly, and full of movement — exactly the kind of aesthetic I love creating. That look really taps into my signature style: feminine, playful, and fun. It just felt effortless on her and photographed beautifully.
How do you feel about the reception to your BravoCon work in person at BravoCon and online?
Milinda: It felt really good seeing the reaction to my work. I think people genuinely loved the looks because Ciara is known for switching it up, and that’s exactly what fans want to see. They love when the hair complements the outfit and completes the whole moment. A lot of times, stylists and clients can fall into having one signature look, but what people appreciate about Ciara’s style is that she’s never predictable — the hair is always going to match the vibe. I also personally love switching up her styles because it forces me to think outside the box. Fashion and beauty go hand in hand, and when those two elements are aligned, that’s the kind of inspiration people are really looking for. It keeps things fresh, creative, and exciting for both of us — and the fans can feel that.
