Search Results: Devri Velazquez

How to Use Gel For a Defined Coily Wash-and-Go
How to Use Gel For a Defined Coily Wash-and-Go
By Devri Velazquez ·

NaturallyCoily James show us his simple way of achieving a defined wash-and-go using styling gel. In this video, he uses Ecoco Eco Styler Krystal Styling Gel to make his type 4 coils pop, shine, and manageability.

Watch the video

1. Condition & Cleanse
Prepare your hair by deep conditioning and cleaning your scalp to remove any old product build-up before restyling.
2. LOC Method

Use the LOC Method to retain moisture in your coils. James applied coconut oil, a strengthening leave-in with shea butter, and sealed with olive oil. 

3. Section

Divide hair into sections hair using plastic or metal clips. This allows for a neater and faster styling process and encourages clumping.

4. Rake to Apply

Use your fingers in a clawing motion, apply Krystal Styling Gel to each section from root to tip. Make sure the sections are saturated. Don’t forget to smooth your edges!

5. Massage it In

Massage the gel into your hair by run your fingers again from root to tip. This helps to lift the hair and add volume.

6. Shake and Dry

Make your wash-and-go appear more natural by shaking your head a few times while it is drying; that way the coils can ‘fall’ into place naturally. Allow your hair to air dry.

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WATCH: Stretched Afro on Short Natural Hair

2 Easy Ways to Prevent "Poofy" Hair
By Devri Velazquez ·
mahogany lox poofy hair
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAHOGANY LOX

Our Q&A Section allows our dedicated curly community members to post, ask, and answer questions all things hair related. Be sure to stop by to engage with others like you and earn points while doing so! Member TaylorAmor posted this question recently:

Question:

My hair is extremely POOFY & DRY! What can I do to reduce poofiness & add definition & hydration?

Answer:

Well Taylor, let me start off by saying that we all here at NaturallyCurly think “poofy” hair is pretty awesome. Sometimes, bigger is better! Rock that hair with confidence, girl.

Regardless, I understand you may not want the “big hair” effect. Reading your question, I’m making the assumption you do not… therefore I will suggest to you these tips in helping you reduce your chances for frizz and poofy 3B/3C curls. There are two techniques for applying your hair products that can help decrease the “poof:” the shingling method, and the LCO method.

Method #1: Shingling Method

Shingling is a way of applying your products to your hair, smoothing the product over your hair from root to tip in sections:

  1. Section your freshly washed and conditioned hair into about 4 large sections.
  2. Seal in moisture with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO”>, found at your local drugstore or grocery.
  3. Grab your favorite styler (a curl definer like the ones below”> and literally rake the product through your strands from root to tip.
  4. Elongate and smooth your strands, starting from the middle of the length of your hair and working your way up. Focus on the tips at the end of the section. 
  5. Do not touch your hair during the drying process.
Best products for shingling:
Watch the Video

Curly hair guru MoKnowsHair demonstrates the Shingling Method on type 3 hair below.

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Method #2 LCO Method

The LCO Method is an acronym for the order in which you apply your products. LCO stands for liquid, cream, oil.

  1. Apply a water-based leave-in. Regular ol’ water usually does the trick for curly hair!
  2. Seal in the moisture onto your hair with a cream. 
  3. Use an oil for a healthy sheen. 
Best products for LCO:
Watch the Video

NaturallyGG sisters show how to use the LCO Method for dry, natural hair.

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Do you have a question about your wavy, curly, and coily natural hair? Visit NaturallyCurly’s Q&A Section (where it says ASK”> here and post it now!

12 FIFA World Cup Players With Goal-Worthy Hair
By Devri Velazquez ·

Things are heating up this year as The FIFA World Cup grabs the attention of millions of viewers across the globe and the ultimate football (soccer”> battle begins. While some of us admit to not knowing a lick of what a soccer game entails, let alone who is in the lead right now, one thing we’re all taking notice of is the beautifully sculpted ‘dos the players are sporting this year. Here’s our 2014 list of faves.

Top 20 Deep Conditioners

"I Opened Melbourne’s First Curly Hair Salon"
By Devri Velazquez ·

I’m Neel, owner of Neel Loves Curls Hair Salon in Melbourne, Australia.

When I was in Sydney in 2005, I went to a hair seminar which taught me about cutting curly hair dry. Sadly, there aren’t many places in Australia that teach curly hair so I went to America to learn the DevaCurl technique. I’ve only just opened up my curly/wavy hair salon so I have much to learn about running a business.

In the next 5 years I would like to train someone up and give my passion for curls to the next generation of hairdressers.

I am always inspired to learn more…

I never want to think I know everything. But the thing that inspires me the most is when a client says “WOW!” after their haircut. If you have passion in your job that helps you stand out. I find most hair salons soulless experiences so I had hand crafted gowns made and my salon is a theatre and the washing area is a jungle with jungle music whilst I wash/deep treatment your curls.

In Melbourne, everyone wants volume and big hair.

I can only speak for Melbourne in Australia but red and coppers are hugely popular on the north side of the city. As I only cut curly hair, I have definitely noticed more clients asking for more voluminous curls.. to show them off more!

I want my clients to go home knowing that…

They aren’t the only person with their hair type. I send loads of clients to blogs and forums to help inspire them to embrace their curls.

Your curls are like a plant.

You are the gardener and you need the right ingredients for your curls! Oh, and NO SULFATES, and NO SILICONES!

You can check out my blog and keep up with me here.

And visit my Facebook page for salon details, hours, and photos!

3 Acne-Causing Hair Ingredients
By Devri Velazquez ·
wavy hair
PHOTO COURTESY OF KITSY.NET

Hate to break it to you fellow product junkies, but constantly trying new products without looking at their respective ingredient labels sometimes can bite you in the face–literally.

Wondering why you are causing acne after trying all these new products? If you’re noticing sudden acne flare-ups and oily, red skin, check to see if your latest Holy Grail product contains one of these 3 harsh ingredients.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfates (SLS”>

This foamy surfactant is a detergent ingredient which is commonly known to cause skin breakouts, especially when used it high quantities. It also causes rashes on sensitive skin. If you need to clarify, stay away from super sudsy shampoos containing sulfates. If you absolutely must use a shampoo with sulfates, keep your hair off of your neck and out of your face in the shower while applying the product.

Petroleum/Mineral Oils

A lot of moisturizers contain this product, which is something you should stay away from if your skin is acne prone or reddens easily. These occlusive moisturizers are oil-based, so they do not wash out of hair easily and clog pores easily. Many people who use products with petroleum byproducts typically break out on their scalp, which can lead to prevention of hair growth. Be sure to especially avoid the product in the hotter months or while exercising, as it will likely travel down onto your forehead and back, causing breakouts.

Carrier Oils

Whenever applied directly onto the scalp, carrier oils cause extremely clogged pores, especially when used over time as moisturizers. Look for products that are high linoleic acid. Those who use products containing high concentrations of this don’t experience as much skin breakout issues as those whose are depleted of linoleic acid. However, don’t knock carrier oils out your regimen altogether–some of us need it. Here are some that won’t be as harmful on sensitive, acne-prone skin:

Oils High in Linoleic Acid

  • Safflower Oil
  • Grape Seed Oil
  • Wheat Germ Oil
  • Hemp Seed Oil
  • Black Seed Oil
  • Rosehip Seed Oil
  • Soybean Oil
  • Pumpkin Seed Oil

Try a styler without sulfates, parabens, and mineral or petroleum oils like CURLS Goddess Curls. See what people think here. And Sevi Pumpkin Seed is a line that is made especially for sensitive skin, as it contains a shampoo that not only contains pumpkin seed, but 5 essential oils AND is sulfate-free. Curls Unleashed ORS has a great curl definer that is completely free of petroleum, mineral oil, and alcohol (which is drying for the skin, too”>.

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9 Reasons Rosemary Oil Is a Must
By Devri Velazquez ·

rosemary oil for hair

Rosmarinus officinalis, familiarly called Rosemary, is an aromatic herb originating from the Mediterranean region. It was known as the “herb of remembrance.” Rosemary is the most written-about herb ever, and is even indirectly mentioned in the Holy Bible as the bush Mary covered her son, Jesus, with when they fled to Egypt. Perhaps where the name “Rosemary” came from. Aside from this, the herb is packed with tons of benefits that benefit your hair, skin, and overall health.

More: Top 20 Carrier Oils for Hair

Reduces Dandruff

Rosemary works well for skin conditions. That includes your scalp, which is why there are many clarifying shampoos with Rosemary oil. It helps balance natural oils in your scalp.

Fights Wrinkles

Steep Rosemary into hot water to get the antioxidant benefits. The vitamin, iron, and calcium support collagen levels. It also contains manganese which minimizes the appearance of wrinkles.

Kills Bacteria

Used topically, Rosemary oil kills bacteria, fungi, and skin viruses on minor wounds.

Restores Lackluster Hair

Just a few drops applied directly to your scalp repairs lost moisture.

Calms Achy Joints

Rosemary oil is often used directly onto problem joint areas. If your wrists are hurting after a long work day, dab a few drops on for almost instant comfort from the pain.

Heals Scars

Rosemary oil promotes healthy skin healing through stimulating the cells and circulation. This makes it a great topical oil for acne, eczema, and psoriasis, too.

Prevents Baldness

Studies have shown that 2mg of Rosemary leaf extract on a daily basis acts as a formula towards rapid hair growth and re-growth.

Speeds up Digestion

When used medicinally, Rosemary has been proven to speed up fat digestion.

Improves Vision

A few leaves of Rosemary contains Vitamin A, which is needed for optimal eyesight.

Important note

Like other essential oils, note that Rosemary must be diluted with a carrier oil before being used topically. Check with your physician before consider taking this as a supplement or putting it on your body. For topical use, it is suggested that you don’t exceed using 6 to 10 percent of an essential oil on the given area per day.

Read more: 5 Ways to Use Lavender Oil

10 Braided Styles For Summer
By Devri Velazquez ·

As much as we love our hair, it’s hot outside and our necks need some cool-down time! So what else to turn to than braids? Not only are they super cute and versatile, but they also allow you to easier manage your summertime extra-curricular activities like swimming and exercising. Look on for 9 photos of braided inspiration.

23 Curly Men You Should Be Following NOW!
By Devri Velazquez ·

Let’s admit, a man with a charming personality, chic style, and a striking mane of hair makes us weak in the knees. For your (and our”> viewing pleasure, we gathered up a batch of some curly cuties worth following. Ehm, online only, of course. Check out our picks for 23 curly men to follow and subscribe to right now!

Art By Ariel: Curly Illustrator to Watch
By Devri Velazquez ·

Keturah Ariel Artist Spotlight

Curly Illustrator Spotlight: Nicholle Kobi (Niki’s Groove)
By Devri Velazquez ·

black parisian by niki
At NaturallyCurly.com, we’re all about versatility, authenticity, and uniqueness. It drives us, and it certainly drives everyone around us. We have a few curly illustrators we work with who help bring our curly content to life. But who exactly are these illustrators, you ask? In this mini-series, we will individually spotlight our artists because they all have a genuine and fun story to tell about what drives them to do what they love.
 
Briefly introduce yourself.

My name is Niki Kobi, and I am based in Paris France. I was always into art, so I studied 3 years Art History and then Stylism in school.

What is your “signature” artistic style? What does everyone know you for?

I don’t think I really have one… Maybe drawing ethnic women with curly or natural hair.

What are some things you have learned creating art for a living?

Work hard, be patient and NEVER give up because there are so many great artists but only a few can make a nice living off of creating artwork.

niki

What is one thing you wish people knew about you as a person?

When people don’t know me they often think that i am cold or a snob but I am a sensitive and tolerant person. I really love human beings! Don’t judge a book by its cover.

What are your passions? What excites you?

I enjoy “ethnic” or primitive art from South American, Aborigines, and African culture. I also love Scandinavian–Sweden, Norway, Denmark–artistic design. I love to travel meet all kinds of people!

What do you hope to accomplish in your professional life?

I hope one day to have my own studio to promote black artists and black female art.

Where can people follow you and keep up with you?

Twitter @theblakparisian | Facebook nikisgroove | Nikisgroove.tumblr.com | Nikisgroove.com | Etsy- nikisgroove 

Curly Illustrator Spotlight: Cheyan (Tall N Curly)
By Devri Velazquez ·

Tall N Curly Spotlight

Anne Hathaway Thinks We Envy Her Straight Hair
By Devri Velazquez ·

anne hathaway

PHOTO REUTERS

Why isn’t Anne Hathaway favorable to the general public? According to the actress, it’s because of her pin-straight hair. Say what now?!

A slew of articles have been written about Anne and the lack of interest that both ordinary, everyday people as well as the acting community have for her–The New York Times, The New Yorker, and CNN are just to name a few.

Recently at a red carpet event covered by E! News, the Rio 2 actress came to the conclusion that her short, straight pixie cut is the reason people don’t like her.

“I’m very, very luck to have very straight hair…Everybody hates me, it’s fine, I’m used to it!” boasts the actress, with a pearly white smile full of cockiness. Actor and 2011 Oscar co-star James Franco claims Hathaway has “Hathahaters,” and it’s a known thing around Hollywood that “Everyone sort of hates Anne Hathaway.”

What does the curly community think of Anne Hathaway? Do we wish we could have her type 1 hair? I personally think her preference is just that–hers. She was gorgeous rocking a faux curly, frizzy ‘do in The Princess Diaries, and she’s just as beautiful with a short, straight pixie cut. My one piece of advice for her, however, is to not single us curlies out and immediately assume that we hate you because we want your hair. Just my guess, but it likely has something to do with your ego trip.

Watch the video here, and let us know what you think about Anne Hathaway and her hair!

 

MORE: Why Doesn’t Blake Lively Like Her Hair?

How Weave Can Help (Or Harm) Your Natural Hair
By Devri Velazquez ·

When it comes to protective styles in the natural hair community, weaves and extensions have long been popular and continue to be an incredibly thriving business within the haircare industry. It all started with an Ohio woman by the name of Christina Jenkins in 1950. Jenkins and her husband created and patented the first known hair weave business, appropriately titled “Christina’s hair Weave.”

It was not long before Jenkins’ intriguing technique was sought after around the entire globe. She was soon being flown everywhere to demonstrate her method of temporarily adding hair of different qualities, textures, lengths, and colors to women’s original manes.

Today we see everyone rocking weaves and hair extensions–every age, every race, and every hair type. The weaving technique has evolved much since Jenkins’ innovative days. And, if done correctly, weave and extensions can actually offer up benefits to natural hair. But like every pro, there comes a con. Here, we break down the three most popular types of weave– sew-in, clip-in, and glue-in– and examine their benefits and harmful side effects.

sew in weave

Sew-in Weave

Sew-in weave might be the most beneficial of the three. This is done by braiding the hair to the scalp (like cornrows”> and having either real or artificial hair woven into real hair. Nowadays it can also be accomplished without braids.

Pros

  • Your styling options are versatile.

  • can be blended or you can use closure pieces or braiding methods that allow your hair to be fully protected.

  • You can use ‘closure pieces’ to fully protect your natural hair from root to tip.

  • You are still able to moisturize, cleanse, and condition your natural hair & scalp.

  • If left in for a long period of time (no more than a couple of months at a time”>, your real hair will retain length.

Cons

  • Without using a protective net, your natural hair may become dry and lose moisture while it is weaved.

  • If your hair is braided too tight, it may weaken, become fragile, and more prone to breakage and split ends.

  • Your hair is at greater risk for thinning and bald patches.
PHOTO ZIONNATURALS

2. Clip-ins>>

apply clip in

Clip-in Hair Extensions

With clip-ins, changing up your hairstyle drastically and adding some length can be done without much skill and doesn’t have to be as tedious as a sew-in. Not only are they easy enough for beginners, clip-in extensions are usually the most affordable of the three types of weave. If you’re an avid DIY-er, making them at home can be feasible, too.

Pros

  • Depending on what type of hair you use, it can be simple to blend in with natural hair.

  • Clip-in extensions are easy and quick to apply.

  • They’re inexpensive to purchase and easy to find.

Cons

  • Since they aren’t as high-quality and secure as sew-in weave, they aren’t as reliable–subject to falling out of place.

  • Just like sew-in, clip-in extensions can harm natural hair via breakage, thinning, and weakening of the hair shaft (by constant tugging hair at the scalp”>.

PHOTO HOTSTYLE

3. Glue-ins>>

glue in weaveGlue-In Weave & Extensions

Unlike sew-ins, glueing in weave (also called “tracks””> can be the most damaging of the three methods. This can be done at home using a bonding adhesive to glue real or synthetic hair close to the natural hair root.. Glue-in styles are usually affordable and accessible–found in most hair and beauty supply stores at a reasonable price.

Pros

  • Glueing in weave and extensions makes it easy to blend in with natural hair and styling options can be versatile.

  • They are cheap and can be found at almost any hair or beauty supply store.

  • Glue-ins are stronger than clip-ins.

Cons

  • Removing the glue from the hair damages the hair shaft, preventing hair growth & length retention.

  • Since you cannot wash or condition your hair, it will not be as moisturized or as clean.

  • If the bonding glue gets wet or is part of an old application, the tracks can easily slide out of place.

  • With this method, there’s lots of room for breakage via combing and brushing during styling.

PHOTO ATLANTA SALONS

Weaving hair can be an effective form of protective styling but should never be an excuse to neglect the overall health of your natural hair. Remember to continue to show love to your tresses from root to tip, cleanse and moisturize often.

Next: Pros & Cons of Coloring Curls

How to Cleanse Your Scalp the Right Way
By Devri Velazquez ·

washing your hair

There are two camps of cleansers in the curly world: those who shampoo and those who cowash (washing hair with a conditioner”>.

No matter your method, it is extremely important to cleanse the scalp properly because over time, hair follicles acquire dirt caused by climatic debris and hair product build-up.

Neglecting to properly cleanse hair follicles can result in hair loss, redness, dryness, and an itching scalp. 

Here are a few frequently asked questions – and their answers – for co-washers and shampoo-ers, and a few of our favorite cleansing products!

Co-Washing Tips:

  • Depending on the texture, porosity, and thickness of your hair, it is not always necessary to condition wash your hair daily. 
  • Stay away from silicones in products. They’re more difficult to wash out of hair since they’re not water soluble. Beware of any ingredient on a bottle ending in ‘cone’.
  • Check that your conditioner contains emollients, protein, and humectants. Emollients add shine to dull hair, protein repairs fragile curls, and humectants lock moisture into hair.
  • Be sure to stimulate the scalp to loosen dirt from the hair follicles.
  • People who have skin conditions like dermatitis shouldn’t rely on cowashing, because this could actually backfire and make the condition worse. 

Popular cowashes:

Wavy Hair

Curly Hair

Coily Hair

Shampoo Tips:

  • Since wavy, curly, and coily tresses tend to dry easier than straight hair, try using a gentle shampoo.
  • For those with oily hair, shampooing might be a better option than cowashing, since they are strong enough to remove excess oil build-up.
  • Most shampoos have a low pH that many cleansing conditioners simply do not. This means that without shampoo, the hair cuticle may not be raised enough to properly release dirt from the scalp.
  • Clarifying sulfate-free shampoos do exist. Luckily nowadays, they aren’t difficult to find. Especially necessary for an itchy scalp (this usually means it is unclean”>.

Popular Shampoos:

Wavy Hair

Curly Hair

Coily Hair

MORE: Don’t Ignore Ceramides

‘A Vintage Vanity’ on her Iconic Rockabilly Style
By Devri Velazquez ·

vintage vanity youtuber

Jen, known online as A Vintage Vanity, is all about gutsy, bold but elegant fashion and beauty. As if her fuschia hair wasn’t enough for me to dare you to divert your attention from her channel, her chic hair tutorials and fun ‘unboxing’ episodes easily make her likeable and admirable for her vibrant persona and carefree confidence. Tune in for my interview with A Vintage Vanity.

Introduce yourself.

I’m Jennifer, a vintage lifestyle beauty guru on YouTube!  I’ve had a longtime love affair with the style and beauty of the 40s and 50s so I finally threw away trying to fit into the modern style and wholeheartedly embraced my inner vintage dame!  My channel features hair tutorials, DIY projects, sewing, and vlogging though it’s become so much more…a supportive and stylish community of ladies and gents. 

Describe your personal style.

If I like it, I’ll wear it!  Petticoats, circle skirts, cardigans, bright colors, prints, hair flowers.  My style draws heavily on the full skirts of the 1950s, but I love to mix it up with modern styles or throw in some padded shoulders for a dash of 1940s.  I love the feminine feel of vintage styles, it just feels right, in fact that’s how I feel about one’s personal style…it should feel right to you!  Trying to fit into styles/trends that you’re not drawn to is like wearing someone else’s skin…uncomfortable and a wee bit gory! One of my favorite phrases is from my literary bible “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” when the heroine is looking at the women in her life she equates them to thin invisible steel, which is how I think of my style soft and feminine on the outside with an inner layer of thin steel…strong and unbreakable, the beauty of being a woman.

What influenced you to start vlogging on YouTube?

I’ve been on YouTube for a little over 2 years. I actually started blogging (which has been grossly neglected though hopefully to be reborn in the near future”> as a way to work out my long neglected writing muscle.  This coincided with the time I was really embracing my vintage life so the blog started reflecting the changes I was making.  I wanted to be able to share with one of my best friends (who lives out of state”> the styles I was doing so I made my first youtube video, never expecting to fall in love with it.  Which is how I ended up with the user name that I have.  Once I made that first video there was no going back, I loved being able to “teach” people the styles I was creating and before I knew it an amazing community grew up around sharing something that I loved. 

vintage vanity vloggerWhat inspires you?

For me inspiration comes in many forms.  I look to old movies, classic Hollywood actresses, old photos of every day people, and designers like Givenchy, Edith Head, Coco Chanel, Dior, along with modern designers for fashion inspiration.  I also gobble up all the fashion reality shows like M&Ms.  For hairspiration many of the same provides me with ideas as well as vintage styling books and modern pin-ups.  For a jolt of creativity it comes from stranger places such as abandoned buildings and photographs of strangers.  I love to try and imagine the lives that were lived, how they loved, and what was their passion.  I do the same thing when I purchase a vintage piece, you know there was a story behind it because the owner cherished it enough to save it throughout the years, wearing a piece of vintage clothing is like honoring someone’s beloved memories.  I’m also continually inspired by other YouTubers and bloggers as well, their style and creativity keep me striving to move things forward.

Who is your style icon?

I adore Ginger Rogers. Whenever I’m stumped for a new hairstyle I always scroll through pictures of her, her style was ever changing and always stunning, from finger waves, loose curls, to elaborate updos.  I lean more towards 1940s hairstyles mainly because of the fabulous amount of curls that were running rampant about that time, which is why Rita Hayworth and Ava Gardner rank high on my list of icons, their curls and waves were so sultry they could steam up a camera lens.  I love a good tease which is why I can’t leave the styles of the 50s and 60s behind, Audrey Hepburn and Doris Day rocked amazing volume along with sexpots like Brigitte Bardot.

What is your go-to hairstyle?

My go to for quick vintage glamour is always any type of victory roll, they are signature of the 1940s and never fail to make me feel sassy!  They are so versatile…you can style them very low to the scalp for a more subtle look or really tease them up so you get great height and volume, they work whether or not you have bangs and look great on everyone!  If I’m trying to get out the door in the quickest way possible I grab a sheer scarf and tie it around my hair, roll my bangs up, pull up the rest of the hair in a ponytail and either just pin up my curls or tease the heck out of my hair and roll it for a beehive feel.

vintage vanityWhat do you hear and read the most from people out in public?

I have an internal mute button for negative comments or weird stares, so everything has been wonderful. Seriously though, I tend to get the sweetest comments from strangers who will make it a point to stop me and tell me how much they enjoy my look.  Some of the best are little girls who will stare wide-eyed, mouth open, and in awe tell their Mother that “that lady has princess hair!”  Others will stop to tell me how lovely they think my look is and that it adds a little brightness to their day (though my hair is so bright pink that it will indeed brighten any dark room”>.   What I love best though is when my style sparks a memory for someone and they tell me about the person whom I remind them of.

What is the most positive comment someone has said on one of your videos?

I honestly have the best viewers, they are continually leaving the most amazing comments!  They inspire me to try something new, suggesting new products, and overall being awesome!   Since you’re making me pick,  my favorite comments always begin “You’ve inspired me to…”.  The fact that this little YouTube channel that I’ve started has motivated someone somewhere to do something that they love, (I’m going to get sappy here”> brings tears to my eyes and fills me with happiness.  There is no better feeling.  Not too long ago I did a video that was near and dear to my heart “8 Tips for Working on your Self Confidence”, all of us to some extent struggle with our confidence…I’ll admit to not having mastered it myself!  I wanted to find a way to give them the support they were giving me, return the confidence that their comments gave me so I created the video and I received the most amazing feedback.  From very personal responses to how it helped them with their struggle to a simple “I needed this”. 

What is your favorite thing to do in your past time?

When I’m not filming videos or trolling a local vintage fair I can be found stalking the beautiful city of Chicago.  I’m a big Chicago history nerd, growing up with amazing stories of this very racy, slightly crazy, and often times downright weird city, so I’m constantly visiting different places and trying to walk in the footsteps of the past.  Which helps with one of my other jobs as a tour guide for Weird Chicago, I love taking people throughout the city and telling the spooky, odd, and creepy history of my stomping grounds. One of the pastimes of the 50s that I love to partake in is the cocktail party with the addition of board games, favorites of which are anything in the horror genre and sci-fi!

vintage vanityWhat are your favorite hair products? 

Foam rollers are the love of my life!  Using them with an overnight wet set produces fabulous curls that will last for days!  My teasing brush is used on a daily basis, making backcombing/teasing a snap and works wonderfully at smoothing out the hair.  My Denman brush is a new addition to my vanity but it does an amazing job at brushing out a curl set, which is key to achieving a fabulous vintage do!  I’m constantly trying different styling products but the ones I reach for the most are Vintage Glam’s Thermal Freeze Spray (every gal needs a hairspray they can count on”>, Curly Sexy Hair’s Curl Crème works wonders as a setting lotion producing smooth curls that have staying power, and Kenra’s Platinum Grooming Pomade 4 really helps to add shine and smooth down any stray hairs without weighing down my hair or making it look greasy!

What is something that every young lady should know how to do these days?

Short and simple: I think every young lady needs to know how to give and receive a compliment, sew a button, change a tire, dance like a fool, laugh with every muscle in her body, and be true to herself.

What are your plans for 2014?

I’m planning on launching my website, continuing to offer new and more fabulous hair tutorials every Thursday, more DIY projects on Sundays with beauty products, home decor and clothing, and of course even more unboxings,  beauty reviews, look-books, and vlogs!  Things this year are going to be better than ever and we’ll dive even more into vintage styles!  It’s all about creativity and pushing the channel to new limits and exploring fun ways to present the information.  Hopefully someday I’ll be able to launch a line of skirts and styling products…who knows what the future will bring…I’ll keep dreaming big!

Subscribe to A Vintage Vanity on YouTube & Like her on Facebook!

Gorgeous Goddess Braid on Short Natural Hair | Tutorial
By Devri Velazquez ·

Looking to switch up your protective styling game? How about a new professional natural hairstyle?

This is goddess braid doubles as both a chic style and a great protective style for short natural hair. MsDanti walks us through the easy steps with her tutorial. 

How to Achieve the Look

  1. Start with blow-dried/stretched hair.
  2. Make a deep side and crown part.
  3. Part the back down the middle
  4. Slick down your edges with a gel like Ecoco Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel or As I Am Smoothing Gel.
  5. Distribute hair butter throughout you hair for added shine and protection. We like Roots of Nature Butter Whip Coil Cream.
  6. Start braiding your hair from the parted side to the other side of your hair. Stay close to your edges.
  7. Braid all the way down to the back.
  8. Repeat steps 2 through 7 on the other side.
  9. Cross the two braids in the back and secure them with bobby pins. 

Watch the Video

MORE: UNICORN PONYTAIL TUTORIAL

PHOTO MSDANTI & BLACK HAIR INFORMATION
"Real Hair Talk" With Karen’s Body Beautiful
By Devri Velazquez ·

Visit any major natural hair show or event, and you’ll most likely spot the big, bold afro and beautiful smile of Karen Tappin. Karen, founder and CEO of Karen’s Body Beautiful, is a walking advertisement for her successful hair care line.

Her brand has grown by leaps and bounds this year, including launching in Target stores and earning awards from media outlets like NaturallyCurly.com and Jones Magazine. Karen was named as one of PopSugar.com‘s “10 Most Influential Women in Beauty,” alongside such luminaries as Estée Lauder, Coco Chanel,  Mary Kay Ash, Madame C.J. Walker and Bobbi Brown.

We sat down with Karen to find out how it all started and learn about the conversation she’s having with women everywhere, “Real Hair Talk,” for her “Real Hair Talk Jamaica Getaway Contest”.

NaturallyCurly: Tell us how Karen’s Body Beautiful began!

Karen Tappin: KBB started in 2003.  I was a high school history teacher at the time and I would get home from work and research and experiment with natural ingredients. Back then, I just worked on candle and body product recipes. As teacher, I heard a lot of stories about young girls and women facing challenges around hair care.  I started reading product labels and realized that many of the ingredients used in hair products had questionable value and made the decision to create better alternatives.

NC: Your afro has become quite iconic! You’re featured in the new book “AFROS – A Celebration of Natural Hair” and upcoming documentary on natural hair, “Follicle.” Tell us about why you went natural, and why a ‘fro?

KT: My husband helped me make the decision.  One day when I told him I was going to my hair ‘done,’ he asked me “why?” I realized he was really asking why I felt the need to change my hair by relaxing it.  In his eyes it was unnecessary. That made me stop and think about why I was straightening my hair.  That moment marked the beginning of my transition.

I wear a ‘fro because it makes a bold and powerful statement. It says I’m happy with myself, I accept myself. It’s liberating. I walk the walk, I don’t just talk the talk. 

Watch Karen Talk About Loving Your Texture

NC: Tell us about how you create products. What’s your process?

KT: In the beginning, it was about what my hair needed because I was searching for solutions to my personal issues. Now the process is customer-centered. We’re dedicated to meeting the needs of our customers, so we have focus groups and interact directly with them at meet-ups, shows and events. I strive to give KBB users the most effective products for all of their hair styling and maintenance needs. Ingredients really matter — that’s my mantra — so I have built KBB around products that contain natural ingredients that I take the time to extensively research and test.

NC: Why do you think KBB products are so popular in the community?

KT: Our products appeal to many women because we meticulously research the best natural ingredients for skin and hair. Our research has also helped me dispense advice to our consumers when I met them face to face.  I think those conversations help people feel even more confident about the brand because they realize I’m passionate and knowledgeable about textured hair.   Our products also smell really great! They come in thirteen different fragrances, so there’s something for everyone.

NC: You’re starting a “Real Hair Talk” conversation? Why is this important to women?

KT: As women, we are bombarded by a beauty standard that basically declares only specific type attractive, which is maddening. So, regardless of your race or ethnicity, you almost certainly start out thinking that you need to have the same hair color, eye color, body type, skin tone and hair type you’re seeing in magazines and movies. It’s especially challenging for Black women because we are naturally furthest from that standard.

Hair is just a small part of the “beauty equation”, but hopefully this discussion helps women feel more comfortable with themselves. We want to make them aware of the ways they may be compromising their health with harmful practices and synthetic chemicals, in the name of beauty. We need to change the perception of coily hair. Our goal is eliminating myths and spreading the truth about what our hair can and cannot do. Our hair is not bad, frizz is NOT a four letter word. It’s normal and natural. Our textures shouldn’t be vilified or given any kind of negative label.

Watch Karen Talk Frizz

NC: Tell us about the “Real Hair Talk Jamaica Getaway Contest.”

KT: We’re having a contest in which customers purchase Karen’s Body Beautiful products at Target stores from now until October 5, and email their receipts to jamaica@karensbodybeautiful.com or enter here for a chance to win the grand prize of an all-expenses paid five day trip for two to the beautiful island of Jamaica. We’ll be having the “Real Hair Talk” Meet-up in Jamaica where we’ll celebrate our natural hair, dispel the myths and motivate women to empower themselves.

NC: What are the most common questions women ask you about their hair?

KT: Probably the most frequently asked question is how to keep hair moisturized and soft while supporting healthy growth. I let women know that finding products that work for their hair is process of trial and error and I advise them not to get frustrated. Don’t give in to hype, give products a chance to work, and seek advice, reviews and tutorials from bloggers and natural hair advocates with your hair type.

NC: What advice do you have for women who are thinking about going natural but think natural hair is difficult to manage?

KT: Going natural will mean learning new hair care techniques. It’s a lot easier once you accept that natural hair will not behave like relaxed hair. Once you use the right products and find a couple of go-to styles that work for your lifestyle, it becomes so much easier. Have fun with it! It’s a personal journey, so focus on you during your transition. Focus on accepting and loving your unique self.

5 Romantic Hairstyles and Accessories for Valentine’s Day
By Devri Velazquez ·
Jessica Biel

Jessica Biel with long and loose waves

Alexa Chung

Alexa Chung with a messy updo

The season of love is here and while many of us worry about getting our significant other a gift that will show them how much they mean to us, others worry about much more important things—like how they will look on Valentine’s Day.

I will be the first to admit that I use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to buy a new outfit, but just as important as the outfit is how you will wear those curls. Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to bring out your romantic side and show off a romantic hairstyle and some accessories.

Long and Loose Waves

Wavies, here is your chance to shine! If you have longer waves it can be hard to get all of your hair to corporate for an updo, so just work with what you have and keep your hair down. If you feel like you that is too boring because you wear your hair down frequently, consider changing up your part or adding an accessory to complete your look. Which leads me to the third idea . . .

Messy Updo

If you can get away with an updo, this is the perfect night to go for it! However, prim and proper is not the way to go. Let some curls hang loose and don’t worry about perfecting the look. Loose curls will help frame your face and also give you a softer look.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks

Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana

Add a Flower

If you’re like me you are not a huge fan of getting flowers for Valentine’s Day because—let’s face it—that is completely cliché! Instead of asking for flowers, get your own and wear one in your hair. Pink and red flowers are the easiest things to find right now so take advantage of the accessibility and use a flower to complete your outfit for the evening.

Half Up Half Down

This is an easy look that goes great with curls and also shows off your face. Similar to an up do you can make it as messy or as smooth as you would like it. For a more romantic look, go for the messier option as it will soften your face and give you a flirtier look.

Low Bun or Ponytail Paired with a Scarf

Buns and ponytails are a common work place hairstyle, but a low bun or side ponytail is your key to romance. Add a scarf that acts as a headband with your outfit and you will have a classic look that screams “Chic!” If you’re feeling extremely into the Valentine’s Day spirit, find a scarf with hearts. Like pink and red flowers, they are no hard to find this time of year.