Search Results: Alexandra Wilson
Why not live your best life?
It’s that time where everyone is reflecting on their past year, planning their goals for the upcoming year and striving to live their best lives mentally, emotionally, financially, and physically. One of the most common New Year’s Resolutions is to make health a priority and exercise regularly. For many curlies, exercising can be quite a hassle especially because of the amount of time it takes to wash and style our hair post workout. Believe me sis, I understand your struggles. I’m currently rocking a protective style, a versatile sew-in with wavy hair extensions, but regardless of my hairstyle, naturally curly hair requires some extra effort. This year I made health and wellness a priority and I’ve never felt more confident, energized and motivated so I wanted to share a few essentials to hopefully spark a fire in you to want to feel and look your best in 2018! Here’s a few of my favorite items that could be a great gift for a curlfriend or yourself, to help you track your progress and maintain your curls in style.
Step Up Your Style
Why be basic, when you can be extraordinary? Something about cute activewear motivates me to work out and I love this Joy Lab bra and leggings from Target. The bold color block details make it easy where you can go straight from the gym to run your errands in style.
Finding the right pair of shoes is essential and these Huraches are known for being effortlessly stylish and comfortable.
Stay Hydrated
When you’re in it to win it, the key is to stay hydrated. This water bottle is the perfect reminder to always give it your best and challenge yourself every chance you get. Remember, you are your only competition.
Don’t Forget to Stretch it Out
Regardless of how often you exercise, it’s important to stretch before and after to prevent soreness and injuries. Grab this cute and comfy mat to stay ready at all times.
Track Your Progress
Not only is this a chic banlge, but it’s also a Fitbit. Transform your tracker into this beautiful accessory while you hit your goals.
Remain Focused
There’s nothing better than working on yourself and blocking out all distractions while your favorite music plays. These earbuds are great for your ultimate lit workout playlist.
This armband is a game changer! It’s most definitely one of my absolute essentials to have while I exercise. It helps me stay focused and off my phone and keeps my phone in place without me having to hold on to it or lose it.
Refresh Your Curls
Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from being great, especially not your hair! Sweat with confidence and keep your hair out of your face with this headband.
Whether I’m wearing my natural hair or a protective style, my hair requires some type of maintenance after I exercise. This scalp refresher is great because it cleans my scalp without having to wash my hair.
What are your essential fitness item(s”>? Let me know in the comments below.
Photo courtesy of: Badgalriri rockin’ Ya Dig from Mattemoiselle
Fenty Beauty continues to deliver inclusive shade range and innovative products to redefine beauty for all. Rihanna debuted her makeup collection in September and as you know, the hype is real and apparently, she’s just getting started. In her latest interview with Time, she shared her lifelong obsession with beauty and what’s next for Fenty Beauty. “Some of my favorite products aren’t even out yet,” she said, when asked about her favorite Fenty invention. “The options are pretty much unlimited in the world of beauty, and I love challenges, so I’m going to continue to have fun and push the boundaries in this industry.”
Photo courtesy: Fenty Beauty
Last week she announced via Instagram her official release date of her latest line of matte lipsticks called Mattemoiselle, 14 shades of bold, fun and colorful hues. Mark your calendars, December 26, these beauties will go on sale and in continuation of an inclusive beauty brand, Rihanna says that this too will be diverse and meant for all skin tones. “Lipstick is all about having fun and expressing your mood at any given moment” says Rihanna. “This collection makes it easier than ever because there’s a color for everyone.”
This holiday season calls for a bold lip and Riri got us covered. The 14 shades includes several bright colors such as: Ma’Damn (a blue-based red”>, Spanked (a dusty rose”>, Candy Venom (electric pink”>, Saw-C (tangerine”>, Up 2 No Good (nude peach”>, Single (rosy nude”>, Freckle Fiesta (terracotta”>, Shawty (warm chestnut”>, PMS (espresso”>, Midnight Wasabi (deep green”>, Ya Dig?! (periwinkle blue”>, Clapback (true navy”>, One of the Boyz (wild lilac”>, and Griselda (burgundy”>.
It’s no secret Rihanna has changed the beauty game, raking in over $72 million only one month after her beauty brand debuted and is named as one of Time’s 25 Best Inventions of 2017, but what I admire most is her strategic marketing and how she is redefining beauty. Fenty Beauty has featured some of the most distinctive models out such as Halima Aden, Duckie Thot, Slick Woods, Paloma Elsesser and her latest collection features singer-songwriter, Sza and the match-up couldn’t more perfect. Who knew green lipstick could look this good? I’m loving how Riri is creating colors that most would assume are impossible to pull off, yet Sza rocks it effortlessly.
Fenty Beauty Sza rockin Midnight Wasabi
Mark your calendars and set your alarms. The Mattemoiselle lipstick collection will officially go on sale December 26 and you can get yours exclusively at Sephora, Harvey Nichols, and Fenty Beauty.
Will you be trying the Mattemoiselle collection? Have you tried Fenty Beauty yet? Let me know your favorite products in the comments below.
Want more from Alexandra? Follow her on Instagram for all things beauty, fashion, and hair.
l
Photo credit: Ron Batzdorff/NBC | 2017 NBCUniversal Media, LLC
NBC’s hit drama TV series, ‘This Is Us,’ is known for its ability to take you on an emotional journey and shine a light on topics that are generally tough for most families to digest. They’ve thoughtfully addressed divorce, drug abuse and adoption, and in one recent episode they tackled alopecia and the intricacies of natural hair. In this specific episode, [our favorite character, Beth Pearson,](https://www.beautycon.com/curlreading/celebrity/why-nbcs-latest-tv-star-is-my-new-natura”> discussed the importance of self-care and how to properly care for your natural hair, especially when dealing with hair loss, a taboo topic for most people but particularly in the African-American community.
Deja, played by Lyric Ross, is Randall and Beth Pearson’s adopted daughter (temporarily”> who is going through a rough time in her life. Her mother is in jail and she is living with the Pearsons, slowly adjusting to their way of life. During the episode, she refused to wash her hair for two weeks when Beth noticed an odor. After being insulted by a girl at the bowling alley, Deja finally decides to ask Beth to do it. As Beth brushes through her hair she notices a handful of bald spots. Deja acknowledges them, admitting that her condition gets worse in times of stress. Beth comforts her by sharing personal hair stories, and lets her know her sister has alopecia. Beth offers to braid Deja’s hair to hide her bald spots.
*Eyes immediately swell up and slows claps*
Why is this topic so important?
I applaud ‘This Is Us’ for bringing this story to light in such an authentic way that reminds us the importance of creating an informative yet genuine dialogue around sensitive topics like alopecia. Most women feel too embarrassed to share their experience with alopecia with others, let alone seek treatment. We all know a Deja or Beth, and I appreciate how well they explored this topic, especially since it’s common amongst African-American women. Being that Deja is a teenager, it’s a widely-held belief that hair loss and thinning is an issue that only affects older people, which is not true. While half of all women over fifty experience hair loss due to hormonal causes, men and women of any age can suffer from hair loss as early as their mid-20’s.
What is Alopecia?
According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, or NAAF, “Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune skin disease, causing hair loss on the scalp, face and sometimes on other areas of the body. In fact, it affects as many as 6.8 million people in the U.S.” What’s more interesting is that according to research by Johns Hopkins Medicine, one third of African-American women suffer from traction alopecia with a strong connection to scalp pulling hairstyles. What may be most concerning is that the majority of these women do not seek consultations or guidance.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re experiencing hair loss or thinning, understand that you are not alone. There’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed about seeking guidance and taking the proper steps in order to gain more education about this condition. Here at NaturallyCurly, we want to continue providing a safe space to share resources and information to learn more about alopecia and the importance of seeking guidance. If you’re experiencing hair loss and are in need of some support, check out these articles below:
What You Need To Know About Temporary and Permanent Hair Loss
Look For These Anti-Loss Ingredients in Your Products
15 Situations Where You Need to See a Trichologist
Did you see this episode? If so, what were your thoughts?
As I transition into fall, I’m finally starting to feel the shift. The leaves are changing, the temperatures are dropping, the nights are longer and my wardrobe is trying its best to adapt to it all. Being that I’m a born and raised Texas girl, we experience only a few weeks of cool weather, so instead of investing in an entire fall wardrobe I prefer to incorporate 5 essential items that I can effortlessly rock from day to night. I would describe my style to be minimal, classic and comfortable. Regardless of the season, I make sure to remain true to my style. This season it’s all about romantic florals, flowy silhouettes, bold patterns and of course a little bling.
Hair Accessories
I can’t get enough of updos, glamorous hair accessories, and voluminous curls. A new season usually gives me an urge to try a new hairstyle and I love this easy twisted style Christina did for me. Currently, I’m transitioning from my short cut to longer hair, also known as the awkward in-between phase. Since my hair is longer on the top and shorter on the sides, this hairstyle is a quick way to flaunt my curls for a few days. What’s great is that I can pick it out to add more volume and not have to worry about styling my hair. To top it off, add a few hair accessories, which you can find at your local beauty supply.
Statement Earrings
Now that I’m a short hair curly, earrings are a must! As I mentioned, my style is minimal and I definitely prefer to keep my accessories to a minimum, but still make a statement. These earrings from Beehive are great because they’re light-weight, neutral, yet eye-catching. Not to mention, beige and tan make such a great combo no matter the season and pair well with literally everything in my closet.
Bold Patterned Blouse
Florals are usually more of a spring trend, but I’m definitely noticing florals flourishing season as well. This kimono style top is also a trend I’ve been seeing lately. What I love most about this top are the ruffle details, romantic floral patterns, and the flattering silhouette. I wore it over a bandeau, but it could also be worn as a light jacket with a tank underneath depending on the look you’re going for.
Classic Denim
I’m that girl that will wear leggings every day if permitted. I’m sure we can all agree on the struggle to find a good pair of jeans that fit, let alone are comfortable and durable. When I came across these cropped fringe jeans at Nordstrom, I was surprised how well they fit, not to mention how cute and affordable they were. Once you find a good pair of denim hold on to them for dear life because every girl needs at least one pair of classic denim in her wardrobe.
Fall Lippie
This season calls for the vampy lip, but am I the only the one that gets tired of red lipstick? So instead of rocking the classic red lip, I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and try something new. I’ve been wearing this matte lipstick from MAC in Stone and I’m obsessed! It’s a greyish, taupe brown with purple undertones and depending on what color lip liner you use it changes colors.
What are your fall staples? I’d love to hear about your personal style, let me know in the comments below.
Want more fashion and hair inspo? Follow me on Instagram
Photography by: Cassandra J. Klepac
Learning to love and care for your curls is a journey and while it’s not an easy one, it’s most certainly worth it. Living in a society that has a narrow scope of how beauty is defined can be intimidating as a young girl growing up with a head full of curly coarse hair who feels like she’s not being seen. Regardless of what the media shows us, there is nothing more beautiful than rocking your natural crown unapologetically and I hope to inspire many girls by sharing natural hair stories. I spoke with NaturallyCurly editor April Bingham about her natural hair journey, how it’s affected her self-esteem and how she got through the transition phase. Here’s her story.
My hair journey has been one of acceptance.
Accepting my texture, understanding its beauty, and its “limitations” (nothing will change a 4A into a 3B, y’all”>, and more often than not accepting that I needed to relax…in the spiritual sense, about my length.
No one told me that when I started relaxing my hair I’d have to do it my whole life!
Had someone mentioned to 9-year-old April ‘Hey, you’re going to have to keep up with this until you die’, I probably wouldn’t have STOPPED being natural ever!
So my biggest challenge was very much one of ‘Why can’t my hair be out like all the other girls’ ?’
I’m almost entirely certain my family was one of maybe…five in all of Corpus when I was growing up. And I was the only black child at school—meaning the only braids, the only cornrows, the only poofy segments in those evil hard plastic bubbles. I was always so sad that after it was blown or pressed straight I couldn’t just have it STAY that way.
“My hair says I’m free. I’m free of the mindset that says I have no choice in whether to wear my hair straight or not and free of the need to bow to expectations that say I need to ‘tone down’ my mane to make other people more comfortable.”
My transitioning regimen involved lots and lots of cornrowing!
Which I hated. I wanted big Robert Smith hair at all times, and even though I was protecting my new growth, I was miserable. Eventually, we progressed to other protective styles with extensions, and the routine was ‘Mommy sink washes and deep conditions me, gets the TB grease on my scalp, then blows everything straight, before braiding. Looking back, I had a lot of heat used on my hair even while I was transitioning…I assume whatever was in the old gold and purple Motions bottles protected me from breakage.
The most memorable moment of my hair journey . . .
There was a moment where I went back to a “mild perm” with Mommy’s convincing, around age 15. We did it at the house, it burned, I cried, all my hair fell out, and I cried some more. I still regret it, as I’d have twice the length I do now without it. But the day I realized we just washed it out with regular shampoo and not neutralizing shampoo, I lost it a little bit. And from there, much as I love, love, LOVE her, I resolved that I’d make my own hair decisions exclusively.
I feel most confident in long braids in the half side-ponytail ‘do I’ve been rocking for the last decade.
I was (and am”> very self-conscious about my five-head. But my goth-lite sense of aesthetics fit with sweeping my hair over my face as much as possible! When the big chop made that impossible without constant straightening, I started getting really big into microbraids, and from there, just extended braids that mom could do for me.
April’s Hair Regimen & Holy Grails
If my hair’s not in crochet braids or box braids, it’s a twist out. I prefer to do a LCO method with my rosewater/rainwater mix, Mielle Organics Moisturizing Avocado Hair Milk as my cream and Phytospecific’s Baobab Oil as the oil in that equation. I like to cowash every other week—and I mean cowash with actual conditioner. Camille Rose Naturals’ Moroccan Pear Conditioning Custard has been good to me on that front. I usually mask up about once a month, and I’m enjoying the results from Coconut Restore’s Keratin Intensive Repair Masque. Internal maintenance is KEY for growth, and Curls’ Blissful Lengths Liquid Hair Growth Vitamin is really working for me. My ‘edges’ reach my eyebrows now.
What inspired you to go natural? We’d love to hear your story, comment below.
You might have heard of Controlled Chaos from its appearance on ABC’s hit TV show, Shark Tank. Controlled Chaos was founded by a hairstylist who wanted to provide her clients with a product that “Defines, detangles, eliminates frizz, enhances curls, adds shine and provides UV protection.” Not only is it a holy grail amongst many curlies, it recently won Best of the Best from our community. They named the Curl Creme their favorite styling creme, so I decided to give it a try!
Can you be a product junkie and a minimalist? Well, that’s how I would describe myself. My cabinets and drawers are filled to capacity with hair products, but I prefer to keep my styling routine as simple as possible by refreshing, detangling and then adding a light-weight leave-in conditioner. Even though my daily hair routine is pretty simple, I think it’s good to have a variety of products on hand depending on your hairstyle, weather conditions and etc.
My first impressions for the curl creme was the super sleek packaging! I can admit that I have an obsession with great branding and packaging and that’s what definitely caught my eye with this product. From the sleek, matte black bottle which is BPA- free to the simplistic design with pink accents, I was intrigued to see if the product worked for my short 3B/3C curly hair.
As I mentioned, my everyday styling regimen involves me refreshing my curls with a water bottle, adding my favorite detangler, and then adding a leave-in conditioner. For the past couple weeks, I have followed my daily routine and incorporated the Controlled Chaos Curl Creme as my leave-in conditioner.
The creme is light-weight, fragrance-free and doesn’t require any more than a quarter size of the product. Tip: A little goes a long way. To avoid product build-up, use a quarter size and add more every other day if needed.
Tip: A little goes a long way. To avoid product build-up, use a quarter size and add more every other day if needed.
As instructed, I used the curl creme on my wet hair, raked it through from tip to root and let my hair air dry. Once my hair was completely dry, I picked my roots to provide more volume.
After using the curl creme my hair was very defined, soft and bouncy! I would definitely recommend it to other curlies for them to experience because it most certainly lived up to the standards of fighting frizz, adding shine to my hair and is great for all curlies, which I appreciate.
Have you tried Controlled Chaos Curl Creme? How does it work for your hair? Let me know in the comments below.
To see the full list of Best of the Best winners, click here
Photography courtesy of @dahliadanda
Do you want to stay connected with Alexandra? Of course, you do follow her on Instagram for more hair, fashion and fitness inspiration.
Fall is all about layering bold textures, rocking your favorite booties, snuggling up in your coziest sweaters and flaunting your vampy lip unapologetically. For me, it’s also been a period of transitioning from my short cut to longer hair, also known as the awkward phase. Since I’ve been growing my hair out, I’ve been looking for hairstyles to try and this one was definitely a favorite. Being that I cut my hair two years ago in a pixie cut the growing out phase is tough especially since my hair is so many different lengths. There are many tutorials for long curly hair and TWA’s, but it’s harder to find hairstyles for the girls like me who are in the in-between phases. So if you have any other hairstyles that work for you, feel free to comment below.
As you know finger coils are my method for creating defined curls and great to wear for a few days when you don’t have much styling or prep time.
Tip: To add more volume fluff and pick.
The hairstylist, Christina, used my favorite styling products the ORS Styling Smoothie and Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste. To make your hairstyle stand out add some accessories like these gold hair cuffs, that are sold at your local beauty supply.
Now that I’ve shared all my hair details, let’s talk about this outfit! Every season the Pantone Color Institute highlights the top 10 colors we’ll see in fashion and for another year the Burgundy color is a Fall staple color. This year they’re calling it “Tawny Port” which is a deep red wine color that is elegant, sophisticated and tasteful, which is a great way to describe this look. It never fails that my eye eternally gravitates toward this hue and I’m officially obsessed, can you tell?
Living in Texas it can be anywhere from 44 to 88 degrees on the same day. It can be tricky on what to wear, so the best thing to do is layer lightly. I paired this maroon bodycon midi dress from Forever 21 with a floral satin trench coat from Nordstrom to add some flavor to this simple look. What I love about this coat is how light-weight and ridiculously soft it is, it’s the perfect third piece to keep in your wardrobe to wear on multiple occasions from desk to dinner.
Let’s get into these boots though! Who else lives for Fall to pull out your most fabulous boots? Yasss girl, me too! Being that I’m 5’8, I’m extremely picky when it comes to shoes, especially heels. I prefer a block heel like these booties and it’s a priority that they’re comfortable and fit well. These velvet boots from Steve Madden are so comfy and easy to walk in, not to mention they make such a statement! They have some brown and purple undertones which are great because they can easily be paired with several looks. If I’m going to invest in a good quality shoe, it’s important that they’re transitional and can be worn with various outfits.
Oh and I can’t forget to share my lip color! I’ve seriously had this lipstick from MAC for years and every time I wear it I feel like a new woman. A bold lip color goes a long way, so I encourage you to find your power color and own it!
What’s your fall color staple?
Want more style and hair inspo? Follow me on Instagram
Photography by Cassandra J. Klepac
Hair by @prettyeyegirl_mzcuts
Kerry Washington graced the November cover of Allure Magazine and she is giving us all the feels. The award-winning actress and producer who is known for her powerful role in Scandal gets real about beauty standards, motherhood, and politics. There are so many things to love about this cover shoot from her natural makeup look, loose cornrows, the jaw-dropping fashion and we’re here for all of it!
This. Is. Black. Girl. Magic.
On Politics
Can we be honest? This year has been challenging, emotionally draining and filled with countless acts of terror and hate where it can seem tough to navigate as a brown woman living in America. So anytime you catch a glimpse of hope, hold on tight. In her interview with Allure she shares that this year has also been tough for her, “I have to dip in and dip out, because it suffocates me. Like, I become unable to function. So it’s a tricky balance between staying aware and also staying connected to a sense of hope and productivity and showing up for life.”
I have to dip in and dip out, because it suffocates me. Like, I become unable to function. So it’s a tricky balance between staying aware and also staying connected to a sense of hope and productivity and showing up for life.
On Representation
Most of the time we spot Kerry Washington it’s on the ABC hit drama Scandal as Olivia Pope, who is known for her bold actions, flawless fashion statements and go-getter attitude who always gets the job done no matter the circumstances.
{Insert your favorite “It’s Handled” meme here} Only the real Gladiators will catch that.Kerry Washington and the Scandal creator, Shonda Rhimes have helped change the trajectory for women in media, especially African-American women. Kerry Washington tells Allure that most people’s relationship with Olivia Pope may be the most intimate one they have with a black woman, “For her to be three-dimensional and complex and fully human and not anybody’s stereotype or caricature is a big deal,” she says.
On Natural Hair
For centuries African-American women have been scrutinized for how we choose to wear our hair, especially our natural hair. While the natural movement is slowly changing the game there are still societal pressures to look, “beautiful.”
Not until recently, celebrities rarely wore their natural hair. Celebrities such as Kerry Washington are usually seen on the red carpet with silky straight hair and their edges laid, so for her to come through and make this raw statement, it’s everything we needed.
“I like to wear my natural texture, especially now because I have children and I want them to know that their hair is perfect as it is. They don’t have to change it or straighten it. They can, but they don’t have to.”
I like to wear my natural texture, especially now because I have children and I want them to know that their hair is perfect as it is. They don’t have to change it or straighten it. They can, but they don’t have to.
According to her hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew, she says, “I parted her #natural blown out #hair in four sections. Then braided it from the front to the undone ends. I left the flyaways on purpose to show the imperfections with the hair. Then finished off the #hairstyle with some gold hair jewelry.”
One of the beautiful things about natural hair is the versatility. In her second look, she rocked curly extensions by her celebrity hair stylist who is clearly killing the hair game.
Thank you, Kerry Washington for reminding US of our power, beauty, and resilience. Continue to break barriers and shine bright Queen.
What do you think about her cover look? Are you here for it? Let me know in the comments below.
Credits:
Fashion stylist: Hanna Kelifa
Hair: Takisha Sturdivant-Drew
Makeup: Francelle Daly
Photography: Sharif Hamza
No matter your curl type, volume is most likely at the top of your priority list. There are many techniques to add volume to your hair such as fluffing, diffusing and scrunching. But have you tried a pick? Believe me, it will surprise you how much it makes a difference in your curls. I know there is some fear that when you pick your hair it may cause frizz and breakage, but that’s not the case with all picks. Now that I’ve found the Cricket Ultra Smooth Coconut Pick to create fluffy voluminous curls I don’t leave home without it. Read along to find out why you should keep this pick in your bag, at all times.
A few months ago the NaturallyCurly team had a pick challenge to show the difference in how your hair looks before and after using a pick. I never used a pick before and was up for the challenge. Being that I have short, type 3b/c curly hair, I always thought my hair should be defined and slicked to my forehead. I’m not sure where I got this idea from, but you couldn’t tell me otherwise until after I saw how good my hair looked picked out with volume.
Usually, my daily hair routine involves me refreshing my curls in the morning, adding my favorite leave-in to the ends of my hair and letting it air dry. Once my hair is completely dry I then grab my pick for the finishing touches.
How to use the pick
I’ve learned that the best way to add volume and keep your curl definition is to lift your roots with the pick, but don’t comb all the way through the ends. Since my hair is styled in a pixie cut, I prefer to add volume mostly to the right side of my hair where my hair is longer. Then, I’ll pick the rest of my hair to make it evenly full.
What I love about this pick is that it glides right through my hair and is infused with coconut oil and keratin to help reduce frizz and add a lil’ shine, without leaving residue on my hands. I have seen metal sharp picks, but I prefer plastic and these edges aren’t too sharp to poke my scalp or cause breakage to my curls. You can read more about how metal picks and plastic picks compare here. Also, I like the size of it and how it can easily be thrown in my purse, backpack or suitcase. You never know when you may need to fluff on the go to get that extra oomph.
I highly recommend this pick for all curlies, wavies and coilies. You can now get yours at SHOPNaturallyCurly for only $5.00, say whaaat? Girl, you better get you one. Thank me later!
I’ve been rockin’ my fro lately, and just check out the volume I’ve been able to achieve!
Do you use a pick? Share what you use to add volume to your hair in the comments below.
Photography by Cassandra J. Klepac, last photo by Dahlia Danda.
Want to stay connected with Alexandra? Of course, you do, follow her on Instagram for all things health +beauty + curly hair chronicles.
*Editors Note: This post is not sponsored.
I big chopped two years ago and decided to get my hair cut in a pixie. Although I have enjoyed my sleek short hair cut, I think I’m over the “short hair don’t care” season of my life and I’m ready to let my hair grow out. Currently, my hair is a variety of lengths and curl patterns, so it can be frustrating to style my hair at times. If you’re a short curly like me growing your hair out or transitioning and in need of some inspiration, here’s what helps me to own the in-between stages of my curly hair chronicles.
Protective Styles
This summer I started experimenting with protective styles and now I’m obsessed with trying out new hairstyles! It’s so easy to get comfortable with a hairstyle, but there are so many options for your try, so I encourage you to be open to change and try something new. One of the braided hairstyles I tried was the feed-in ponytail with gold cuffs, which was great for my summer vacation trip to Belize.
A few weeks after that, I tried the fulani braids with beads, which I got for my New York trip to Afropunk. These were definitely a fave, but to be completely honest the braids that came to the front kept getting in the way when I washed my face or slept, so definitely keep that in mind when trying a style like this. Ask yourself, are you more focused on fashion or functionality?
Headwraps
If you’re in need of a quick fix and don’t want to spend too much time or money, wrap it up! Headwraps are definitely one of my go-to’s when my hair isn’t cooperating. If I’m in a rush or the humidity kills my vibe, then I can quickly grab one of my colorful headwraps to complete my look. Headwraps are great for any season, plus there are so many different ways to tie one.
If headwraps are new to your styling repertoire, check out this video.
Finger Coil Method
I feel like I’m officially the finger coil queen! Seriously, this is my go-to method for blending in the shorter strands, plus it defines my curls like no other. My hair has been growing a lot lately, but it tends to be very uneven with so many different curl patterns. It can be tough to style at times, especially since the front is long and the sides are short.
Here’s my finger coiling method step-by-step:
- Mane Choice Softening Milk rake through my hair
- Part in sections and finer coil each section
- Air dry
- Undo coils
- Fluff and go
Own Every Stage
Remember, direction is so much more important than speed. Don’t get caught up on what other curlies are doing, do what works for you! The more familiar you become with your hair’s needs, the easier it is to know how to maneuver along your natural hair journey successfully. Like any journey, it’s important to set realistic goals, pace yourself, keep an optimistic mindset and celebrate your progress.
I’m planning on getting a sew-in next, which is right on time to switch up my look for fall. I’ll be sure to keep you posted on how I care for my natural hair and scalp, and how I maintain the hair extensions. I’m also planning on sharing how to style my extensions to blend in with my natural hair, so stay tuned for more!
Want more hair + style inspo from Alexandra? Of course you do. Follow her on Instagram.
For more articles like this, follow NaturallyCurly on Facebook.
Most curly hair women grew up with the mindset that water was our biggest enemy, especially if we had a perm. We had gone through far too much pain to let the rain ruin our freshly pressed hair. I would try my best to duck and dodge from the rain. Even when I went swimming I wore a swim cap, because I did not want to deal with the aftermath of wet hair. Having been natural for over six-years, I now understand the importance of water as an essential ingredient to a healthy hair regimen.
When I first started working at NaturallyCurly, Evelyn introduced me to this water bottle by Curly Hair Solutions. It was a NC favorite and came highly recommended by all of the editors, so I was eager to find out what the hype surrounding this water bottle was all about. Now, you can expect to pay $15 for this water bottle. I know I know, this sounds a bit steep, so I decided to test it for myself. I’ve been using this water bottle for the last eight months and girl, let me tell you, it will change your life! It most definitely changed mine. Keep scrolling to find out its magical powers.
I have a combination of Type 3b/c curls with medium porosity, and my hair desperately needs moisture. For the longest, I used to dump my head in the sink or wet my hair in the shower each morning. Being that I live in Texas, humidity is always a component that comes into play, so I usually have to also refresh my curls in the evenings before I head to dinner or an event- – it’s such a game changer.
There are many things I love about this water bottle from the ultra-sleek packing to the easily refillable bottle in which you can cocktail to perfection. Another reason why it is now a part of my everyday essentials is that it sprays a continuous mist without drenching my hair. If you only knew how I used to walk around with soaking wet hair slicked to the side for at least half of the day because I would re-wet my hair in the shower each morning. Who knew it would take me 25 years to find something so simple that works wonders? It’s such a great reminder that the natural hair journey is truly a journey. The more familiar you get with your curl pattern and find what products work best for you, you’ll conquer the curly girl struggles and get the defined voluminous curls you’ve been searching for.
I’m sure you’re wondering how you can get your hands on your very own Curly Hair Solutions Water Bottle, right? SHOPNaturallyCurly has restocked them so you can now get your hands on one. I guarantee it is worth the investment because you will witness a curly hair miracle happen before your eyes.
Now I know why the experts consider this to be the BEST water bottle for fabulous curls. *Praises Curly Hair Gods*
What is your go-to curl refresher? I’d love to know in the comments below.
Photography by Cassandra J. Klepac
Want to stay connected with Alexandra, of course you do! Follow her on Instagram
*Editor’s Note: This article is not sponsored.
Growing up as a bi-racial girl with no sense of identity, there were only a handful of women I admired and felt I could relate to on television. Women like Lisa Bonet, Tracee Ellis Ross, Tia and Tamera Mowry and Brandy Norwood helped change the trajectory of how women were represented in the media, especially African-American women.
One woman, in particular, Tracee Ellis Ross, who recently won a Golden Globe for her phenomenal role in the ABC hit show Blackish, which shines a light on topics such as gender roles, race, and parenting continues to pave the way in the media industry by being refreshingly honest and funny. She is not just an actress but in her words an, “Actively compassionate advocate for freedom, equity and joy, culture of beauty expander.” I got that straight from her Instagram bio, so you know it’s real. I’ve been a fan of hers since her lead role as Joan in Girlfriends, which was by far one of my favorite TV shows of all times. Even though I was definitely way too young to be watching that show, it showcased the power and beauty of sisterhood, black excellence, and sexuality.
From her charismatic personality, ability to eloquently spit lyrics as T-murda, glorious style that embodies feminity, and warm spirit that makes you feel as though she’s your favorite auntie. She is redefining beauty and breaking barriers to shine a light on the importance of representation and inclusivity in media.
In her latest interview with Vogue, she answers 73 intimate questions including her biggest fear in life and what inspires her. Her advice to her teenage self was something we can all use a reminder of:
I swear you will get more comfortable in your skin, and keep dreaming honey.
It seems we at NaturallyCurly have a lot in common with Tracee, because the one thing she wants to be remembered for is “inspiring people to feel comfortable in their skin.” The moment she describes beauty and here is everything to us.
Beauty is about the way you feel, about having desire, and having choice. And beauty is about you.
Can we just be best friends already? When asked what she loves most about her hair, she replied emphatically, “that it’ll do anything.”
Press play and watch it for yourself!
Never underestimate the power of your words.
You’re beautiful. I love you. Know yourself. Write in the journal. Be yourself. Love yourself. Be of service. Be teachable.
From her beautiful home, messy bun, effortless style, and inspiring words I’m officially obsessed with Auntie Tracee and hope she has inspired you in some form to speak your truth and embrace your curly crown!
What do you love most about your hair? Let me know in the comments!
When was the last time you attended a fashion show where real women were celebrated? Society’s idea of beautiful is straight and narrow, there aren’t many curves or kinks represented for the everyday girl. Thankfully many people are working to create change and showcase the many facets of beauty and all it entails.
Naturallycurly Co-Founder, Michelle Breyer, was inspired to create Texture on The Runway because when she was a journalist covering Fashion Week, she immediately noticed the lack of diversity on the runway, especially when it came to hair she rarely saw a curl or kink in sight. Being that she’s a curly girl she wanted to help change the narrative and has been working diligently to create an inclusive space for curls, coils and waves to be celebrated and spotlighted just as the fashion is.
We want texture to be celebrated and to be seen as something that doesn’t need to be fixed … something that is fashionable and beautiful.
Recently there are many brands working to be more inclusive, rather than sprinkle diversity on the runway, Michelle Breyer wanted to be intentional and create her own fashion show during NYFW where real women, real fashion and real texture were at the forefront. “Although more brands and designers are embracing texture, traditionally Fashion Week has been a reminder for many women that their beauty is not the right kind of beauty. For years, we have been working to change that conversation — and it’s so important for Texture On The Runway to take place at New York Fashion Week every year. Because representation matters.”
From the models to attendees, the proof is in the puff that representation matters. This year over 700 people gathered at TOTR to embrace, exemplify and celebrate all the forms of textured hair. In case you missed it, you can relive all the BEST Texture on the Runway 2017 moments below!
These beauties The McClure Twins and The Lee Twins stole our hearts without a doubt!
Anyone else here for the fabulous street style during NYFW?
Simplicity always win!
From curls, locs and braids texture was celebrated in every form.
These beauties have us Fall ready and came to slay!
When you see your IG crushes IRL, snap a selfie.
This is how you rock a floral pantsuit, come through Mo! She was our fabulous co-emcee for the night.
#SQUADGOALS
When the love is REAL, the smile is just as bright as the highlight!
Did we mention the men showed up and showed out, the Twins brought all the swag.
Now, that’s how you showcase Texture on The Runway! Thank you to everyone who attended, our partners, brands, models and community for all your continuous love. Special thanks to Sophie for this beautiful image that truly represents TOTR.
Music, fashion and beauty icon Rihanna has everyone glowing in her latest make-up collection, “Fenty Beauty”. Last week she dropped the exclusive collection and, unlike other celebrities, she created enough product for people to purchase rather than releasing a limited amount that would sell out in hours. From the strategic marketing, sleek packaging and diverse products she is paving the way in the beauty industry to redefine traditional beauty standards. For the past two years, she has been working diligently with Kendo Brands to release an innovative, inclusive and cruelty-free make-up collection in which all women are celebrated. Get into this glow and find out what all the hype is about.
Representation Matters
Let’s talk about the beauties she hand picked for this campaign, such as Halima Aden, Duckie Thot, Slick Woods, Paloma Elsesser and more reminding us that beauty has no limits.
,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
“Fenty Beauty was created for everyone: for women of all shades, personalities, attitudes, cultures, and races. I wanted everyone to feel included. That’s the real reason I made this line.” xx Rihanna
Women of color have been left out of the conversation for far too long when it comes to the beauty industry, especially finding the right match for darker skin tones. What I admire most about this make-up collection is that she created 40 boundary-breaking shades of foundations, which has never been done before! Also, to take the struggle out of finding your match she created an online matching system that helps you find the perfect foundation for your skin tone. To make the process even more flawless, when you visit a Sephora the associates have match cards that tell you recommendations for the entire Fenty Beauty collection from highlighter to concealer based on your foundation color. Seriously, this is how you create your own lane! 
My Experience
Foundation is Key
I’m sure we can all agree on the struggle of finding a foundation that matches perfectly and doesn’t leave you ashy, orange or oily. I went to Sephora and got matched for the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation in 300. I’ve been a MAC girl for over 5 years and thought it was the best foundation for my skin, but this foundation is everything!!! It’s lightweight, medium coverage and shine-free. It does oxidize so it changes color after you put it on, so give it some time to set before you try a new color. Did I mention it’s oil free and sweat resistant?
Glow Baby Glow
I tried her Killawatt duo highlighters in Mean Money + Hustla Baby and Girl Next Door + Chic Phreak. In my opinion, they were too subtle and didn’t show up very well on my skin. Then, I tried the Match Stix in Rum, a roll-on shimmer stick that can be used as a highlighter, lipstick or eyeshadow. OMG!!! *Throws hands up and praises Riri* Y’all this Match Stix is by far my favorite product from Fenty! What I love most is it’s multi-purpose and so easy to apply. You can purchase it individually or in a trio that includes a concealer and contour for the ultimate slay! 
Where You Can Get It
You can get yours at exclusively at Sephora, Harvey Nichols and Fenty Beauty, plus it ships globally so everyone has a chance to experience what it feels like to glow year-round. Expect to invest $16 – $54, but I feel it is most definitely worth it!
What Do You Think?
Have you tried it? What’s your favorite product? Let me know in the comments below!
Texture on The Runway, powered by Sally Beauty, is an ode to natural hair, culture, art, and fashion. It’s an opportunity to create a space for women, men and kids with textured hair to inspire one another to rock their crowns with confidence. TOTR took place at Gotham Hall, which set the scene eloquently for greatness to take the stage. The runway was filled with beautiful curls, bold afros, intricate braids adorned with metallic ornaments and let’s not forget the jaw dropping fashion. Celebrity wardrobe stylist, Wouri Vice, teamed up with Curlformers to bring Bohemian Chic to TOTR. Wouri has styled some of our favorite leading ladies such as Taraji P. Henson, Alicia Keys, Viola Davis and more. I had the opportunity to get an exclusive interview with him to find out his inspiration for the runway looks and the importance of diversity in the fashion community.
Curlformers theme was “Bohemian Chic x Flower Power” so it was all about florals, bold colorful prints and patterns.
Wardrobe Stylist, Wouri explains why he chose to go with Flower Power and the significance it has with curls, “Flowers bloom, they start small and they get big just like curls. There is so much power in the curl, there’s so much power and strength for a woman to wear her hair in a curly texture in this climate because it’s an immediate judgment, but I think that’s the beauty of it because there’s so much variety in how curls are worn. So I transformed that into flowers and what I see as we’re moving into the Spring season.”
“We’ve got everything from Zara to Cristina Economou. For me, it’s more about the concept rather than the designers. I wanted to show women that fashion can be fun with florals and patterns.”
Doube the cuteness, double the fun, Anais & Mirabelle Lee owned the runway in the most adorable outfits. Peep the Chuck Taylors.
Marissa Hill glided down the runway in the most beautiful floral prints I’ve seen. This kaftan is everything!!
Carol Rojas rocked the runway mixing lace & leather, so timeless!
Britney Watkins graced the runway reminding us that work wear can be fun too! I think I need this yellow sweater in my wardrobe, what a statement!?
The bottom line is we’re magical and everyone wants a piece of the magic.”
Wouri said, “Platforms like this are creating the moment for diversity. I think that there’s space for diversity to grow in the community, but the fashion community doesn’t want to admit that they’ve been wrong. When it comes to hair, I don’t see a lot of curls on the runway so this is a very important show to be a part of and I was excited that Curlformers invited me to join their team.”
Thank you for sharing your expertise, Wouri Vice. It was a pleasure chatting with you! You can find the Curlformers used for all of these styles at Sally Beauty.
This post is sponsored by Curlformers.
Photography by Corey Reese Photography
Real Women. Real Fashion. Real Texture.
Texture on the Runway, powered by Sally Beauty and presented by Naturallycurly, kicked off NYFW showcasing the beauty of natural hair, which isn’t usually represented in the fashion industry. TOTR is an opportunity for textured hair to have the spotlight and reminded us that texture can be the perfect complement for any fashion. This year, 6 brands each created a unique experience for attendees to be inspired and empowered by their natural hair in all of its forms. I had the pleasure of working with Curlformers, a heatless curling tool that creates a variety of curls, from ringlet spirals to loose-barrel waves.
Alexandra Efstratiou, Curlformers lead hairstylist, sat down with me and shared her inspiration behind the TOTR runway hairstyles and the variety of ways she used Curlformers to create beautiful curls that we dream of.
What inspired your theme for this year’s TOTR?
Bohemian Chic, Flower Power is the theme I created as I styled this event. I took the idea of a flower and its power to expand as it’s formed. Just like a flower a small plant or seed can grow into something miraculous and beautiful. We wanted to show the different types of looks you can create with Curlformers on different textures while showcasing the natural bohemian feel which mirrors Curlformers.
What products were used to create these looks?
We used a mixture of curler widths and lengths will be used from Corkscrew Curlformers to create a powerful, rocker boho chic afro to Spiral and Barrel Curlformers to bring to life the whimsical look-and-feel inherent of a beautiful, traditional, care-free and high-spirited bohemian woman. For the first time in the US and for any runway show, we used our new range of wet styling products – Styleformers due to launch soon which features a range of products including a curling cream and serum, perfect for using alone or together as part of a fun, cocktail hair mix.
What do you want people to experience when they see these hairstyles on the runway?
We wanted to show that you can have a professional look and still have natural texture. We’d like to introduce that it’s not only straight hair that can be born in a business office.
What current hair trend do you love and how did you incorporate that into the show?
One trend I love, and part of why I am so excited to do the Curlformers texture on the runway show, is natural texture. I enjoy an unrepressed approach to beauty. Trying to make every style straight and shiny is just a bit boring, and it does not reflect what we are seeing on the streets of NYC, where sporty, urban, nonchalant, laid-back styles are de rigueur. As such, the basis of our idea for the show is to show off chic bohemian styles that celebrate wave and curl, texture and movement in the hair.
What are some tips to create a variety of looks when using Curlformers?
You think of the product, Curlformers, you think everyone will have these tight spiral curls, but we also wanted to show the variety of styles Curlformers offers to amp up the volume or tone it down with a loose wave. To make a looser curl you definitely want to increase the size of Curlformers and drag the roots down so that the curl isn’t coming directly off the scalp, but flattens it out a little bit and starts closer to the temple.
Why do you feel it’s important to have texture represented on the runway?
Hair should make you look and feel young and carefree, sexy and fun and fabulous. By celebrating texture on the runway, we can continue to spread this message and encourage more people to wear their hair naturally.
Thank you for sharing your insight and inspiration, Alexandra Efstratiou. You can find the Curlformers used for all of these styles at Sally Beauty.
This post is sponsored by Curlformers.
Photography by Corey Reese Photography
Yours Truly captured by John Marcus
As I continue to grow my hair out from my pixie cut style, I’ve been experimenting with protective styles. I’m a low maintenance natural with a combination of 3b/3c hair. I easily get comfortable with rocking my curly fro, but girl let me tell you it’s nothing better than a fresh set of braids that make you feel like a melanin goddess. This summer I stepped outside my comfort zone and tried two braided styles so I’m sharing what I’ve learned about rocking protective styles for beginners, from finding a trustworthy hair stylist, to the best products to use and advice on caring for your scalp.
Girl, Who Did Your Hair?
Start by asking friends (or strangers”> where they get their hair done. Ask questions such as “How was your overall experience,” “Would you go back,” and “Was he/she professional and on time?” Be sure to get as much information as you can from them before you waste your time or money. Also, research their work and be sure they offer the services you’re looking for. I use Styleseat to book my stylist, and it’s a great tool to check out stylists work, services and reviews. For these two braided styles, I booked with Hair by Tara, who is based in the Austin area and is known for her bomb sew-ins, feed-in braids and blowouts. If you’re looking for a stylist in your area who specializes in natural hair, NaturallyCurly’s Salon Finder has thousands of reviews from other NC community members.
,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
Clean Hair is Key
Before you get your hair done, be sure to wash your hair the night before to remove any product build up. I used the Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Shampoo and Conditioner. It cleanses my hair it leaves it soft and moisturized.
Care For Your Scalp
It’s so important to oil your scalp when you’re wearing your hair in protective styles, especially during the summer months when your hair is exposed to the sun. As you know, there will be times your scalp will feel like it’s on fire, but you must fight the itch. To soothe my scalp I used the Design Essentials Peppermint & Aloe Soothing Scalp Tonic, which is great because it has a nozzle applicator that can be easily applied to your scalp without a mess. I would apply this twice a day for a nice refresher.
Slick Your Edges
You know it’s a must, to keep those edges laid. My go-to for edge control is the Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste, it keeps my baby hairs under control while adding some shine. Also, don’t forget to tie up your with a scarf at night or even on the way to work to keep your braids fresh.
Deep Condition Your Hair
There is nothing better than the feeling of taking your hair down and running your fingers through your curls. Now that you’ve done the hard part, it’s time to restore and replenish your hair. I used the Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash , massaged well, gently combed then applied the Hair Mask for an intense deep conditioner. Be sure to leave it on for 20 minutes, massage your scalp thoroughly then rinse and detangle.
From One Curly Girl to Another
To my naturalistas who are transitioning or growing their hair out, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try a new look. Embrace the awkward phases to experiment with a variety of hairstyles and express yourself. There are so many protective styles to try out from braids, twists, faux locs and more. Remember, your only limit is YOU!
How do you care for your protective styles? I’d love to know, comment below!
For more style inspiration, follow Alexandra on Instagram @queensconquer
Editor’s Note: You hear a lot of “what did you put in your hair?” and “I love your shoes!” around the NaturallyCurly offices. Personally, I am always finding inspiration in what my colleagues are wearing to the office and on their Instagrams, so we’re starting a new series to share what we’re loving with the rest of our community – beyond our hair! #OOTD
I would describe my style as minimalistic, classic, comfortable, effortless and feminine. Though I admire great style, comfort is a priority I will not sacrifice no matter how fabulous an outfit maybe. So that means you’ll usually see me rocking a jumpsuit, midi dress, romper or jeggings. What’s the point of wearing an amazingly stylish outfit you can’t breathe in? Believe me, it’s not worth the hassle. Keep scrolling as I share my summer obsessions, tips on maintaining a blowout in sweltering conditions and how to take your look from day to night effortlessly.
What’s the point of wearing an amazingly stylish outfit you can’t breathe in?
I’ll admit, I’m slightly obsessed with jumpsuits. Can you blame me? They’re flattering, effortless and comfy. Jumpsuits take the work out of contemplating what to wear, it’s an easy one and done! Being that I have several jumpsuits in my closet, majority black, when I saw this one I knew I had to make it mine. I love the bold print, off-the-shoulder details, and it has pockets. I mean come on, it’s fully functional and sexy, I feel like this was seriously made for me!
What I love about this jumpsuit is the endless options it offers! It can be worn to work, on a dinner date or it would make for a stylish beach look on your next vacation. The palm trees print screams tropical vibes and is breathable enough to wear on even the hottest days of Summer. Depending on the occasion you can dress this jumpsuit up or down, by switching out your shoes. I wore open toe block heels, but if you’re looking to dressing it down a bit, you can wear a flat sandal or flip flops. I felt like the bold and colorful print was enough of a statement, so I added minimal jewelry with a red lip.
To get the most out of my blowout I wear a silk wrap at night. Being that I’m a lazy natural, I understand the struggle of getting the energy to wrap your hair, but believe me, by wrapping your hair you’re saving so much time styling your hair the next day.
I usually prefer to workout before I start my day which consists of a two-mile run around my neighborhood and a lift. Anytime I work out I wear a wrap to keep my hair up and to keep any residue from products from running down my face. I try my best to work up a good sweat and challenge myself, which also means that my hair gets sweaty. To keep from re-applying heat on my hair daily, I’ll blow dry my hair on low and add some edge control to tame my baby hairs. My go-to is the Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste, it leaves my edges laid without the flaky residue.
When I want to add volume to my bone straight look, I’ll wand or curl my hair once a week, then bobby pin it at night to hold the curls without having to put too much heat on my hair.
How do you rock your work look from day to night? I’d love to know, share your thoughts in the comments below.
For more style inspiration, follow Alexandra on Instagram @queensconquer
Jumpsuit: Melodrama
Shoes: Aldo
Photography: Cassandra J. Klepac
