Lesbifriend Luminary: Lesley Bryant
lu·mi·nar·y
/ˈlo͞oməˌnerē/ - n - a person who inspires or influences others, especially one prominent in a particular sphere.
Each month we take a moment to show appreciation for an exemplary member of our community. Affectionately named “Lesbifriend Luminary”, we honor you.
Lesley “Lady Clipper” Bryant is more than a master barber; she’s a culture shaper, space maker, and creative visionary. With roots in graphic design and over a decade of experience behind the chair, Lesley has carved out a powerful niche in Washington, DC’s grooming scene.
In 2017, she opened The Lady Clipper Barber Shop on historic U Street, making history as one of the first woman-owned and all-Black-woman staffed barbershops in the region. Her design background shows up in every detail, from the curated vibe of the shop to the rotating art exhibits on the walls, blending style and expression in every square foot.
Her impact hasn’t gone unnoticed—Lesley was named a DC Star by the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment for her contributions to the city’s creative landscape. The Lady Clipper has also racked up “Best of DC” and Top Rated Local accolades, proving that her commitment to excellence and community is more than just a tagline. From hosting local art events, championing Black entrepreneurship, to giving the freshest fade in town, Lesley leads with heart, skill, and unapologetic Black queer brilliance.
Her shop isn’t just a place for fades and fresh cuts; it’s a community hub where artistry meets activism, and self-expression is sacred. Lesley leads a talented team of Black women who are changing the face of barbering, one precision cut at a time. Whether you’re walking in for a trim or tapping into a deeper moment of self-reinvention, The Lady Clipper is where confidence gets curated, edges get sharp, and Black women are front and center, exactly where they belong.
Subscribe to our newsletter to see who’s featured as next month’s Lesbifriend Luminary!