In 2015, the then 15-year-old actress Amandla Stenberg asked society to 'end the angry black girl narrative' that so often mars the understanding and identification of women of colour.

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Be it in the media, television, cinema, giphs, or memes, the 'black girl with an attitude' stereotype has long undermined women of colour, wrongfully suggesting they are incapable of evoking an emotion other than anger, express their opinions in a calm and thoughtful manner, ultimately undermining the way they engage or voice their opinions with wider society.

This is why photographer Miranda Barnes started her project 'Doubles' in the hope of challenging stereotypes about black women. She wanted to highlight and celebrate black sisterhood by taking photographs of black twins.

The 22-year-old Brooklyn native explained to HelloGiggles: 'When we talk about black women being celebrated for being caring and loving, it's always in a mothering way but never in a sisterhood way.'

The inspiration for Barnes' project initially came from her grandmother who was a twin, but her family only had a few photos of the twins together. She explains she started the project to reconnect with her family and raise awareness to the beauty of sisterhood, be it among family or friends.

She added: 'For me, "Doubles" represents the idea that black women can be more. Doctors, construction workers — even just successful business women. I think it's important to recognise how the media and stereotypes portray us.

'The self discovery I've found as a black woman has been some of the most rewarding moments of my young adult life. Being a black woman also means that you're constantly subjected [to] and aware of stereotypes.

It's important to recognise how the media and stereotypes portray us

'Simply put, I hope "Doubles" can make black women feel good about themselves and the bond between us. I also hope that non-black women will realise the importance behind representation and who is more subjected to being left out,' she added.

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Katie O'Malley
Site Director

Katie O'Malley is the Site Director on ELLE UK. On a daily basis you’ll find Katie managing all digital workflow, editing site, video and newsletter content, liaising with commercial and sales teams on new partnerships and deals (eg Nike, Tiffany & Co., Cartier etc), implementing new digital strategies and compiling in-depth data traffic, SEO and ecomm reports. In addition to appearing on the radio and on TV, as well as interviewing everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Rishi Sunak PM, Katie enjoys writing about lifestyle, culture, wellness, fitness, fashion, and more.