Half-shaved heads, asymmetrical haircuts, head-to-toe animal print ... we see these beauty and fashion trends on the runways of Fashion Week, the red carpet of the Grammys and in gorgeous, street style snaps. Sure, they're all the rage now, but the majority of these looks began with fashion icons who spearheaded these styles decades ago. What's more, many of these legends were also women of color, who often found it difficult to find mainstream success during their time.

With the help of Tina-Gaye Bernard, M.P.S., a former cosmetics marketing professor, ethnic beauty culturist and founder of COCOACHiC Beauty, we took a look at inspiring women of color who became unforgettable style icons with their willingness to go against the grain. Here, we present 20 stylish women of color who inspired the fashion and beauty trends we wear today.

It's difficult to think about the glamorous Gatsby era that's been in style without remembering the force that was Josephine Baker. The French citizen was known for taking the flapper-chic image to the next level with fearless fashion choices. Case in point: her famous banana skirt, which was emulated by Beyoncé; her lavish, exotic gowns that have inspired Rihanna's risqué looks; and her tendency to invite her pet cheetah to join her on stage. It's no surprise she was muse to many, including Pablo Picasso and Christian Dior.

Her fearlessness also carried over to her work off stage -- the world-class entertainer also played notable roles in the French Resistance during World War II and later, the civil rights movement.

Something tells us Joyce Bryant would appreciate the current rainbow hair trend. During the height of her career as a theater and nightclub performer in the '40s and '50s, Bryant stood out from the pack of other singers with her signature silver hair and tight mermaid dresses. She was known for her four-octave range as much as her signature backless, cleavage-baring dresses -- the same we tend to see making the rounds on the red carpets come awards season and film festivals.

Born Margarita Carmen Cansino, Rita Hayworth changed her name and her hair (yes, the famous redhead is naturally a brunette) to attract more roles, but the actress remained true to her Latin roots by showcasing on film her skill in Spanish dance. Hayworth secured a place in fashion history's hall of fame in the 1946 film "Gilda," where she set the scene for every femme fatale to follow by appearing in the now iconic black satin dress designed by Jean Louis.

Frida Kahlo's numerous self-portraits are proof enough that she was a style icon in her own right. She often mixed bright, vivid colors in a wide variety of patterns and textures, creating looks that were mismatched, but never clashed, much like many fashion bloggers do today. Even her signature beauty look -- bright blooms in her hair, strong brows and ribbons weaved into braided updos -- are consistently seen on Pinterest boards and constructed backstage during Fashion Week.