Search Results: Devri Velazquez
Here are the top 3 trending crochet braids styles to try this fall, as well as 6 tips for maintenance and protection.
I recently caught up with Twin Cities, Minnesota-based freelance hairstylist and makeup artist, Sheri T. (@beautybysheri“>.
A self-proclaimed crochet braids connoisseur, Sheri shared with me her top-requested crochet protective hairstyles, as well as must-know tips for making them last longer while keeping your real hair truly protected.
The 3 top crochet braids trends right now
- Crochet twists: I’ve pre-twisted and curled the twists prior to installation. I think they’re unique and chic on the ladies.
- Jumbo feed-in braids: A classic for many women, natural, relaxed or transitioning.
- Versatile crochet braids: They allow for putting the installation into a ponytail, giving a more natural appearing part.
Which hair type are crochet braids better for?
I personally find it easier to work with natural, more textured hair for the reason that it is textured. The hair has a bit more grip and I feel I can manipulate it more easily than relaxed hair.
How long should a good crochet install last?
A good crochet braid install can last from a month to about a month and a half but this is also with adequate maintenance.
How can a client maintain their style?
I suggest moisturizing their hair, especially their scalp. I advise wearing the hair into a ponytail at night and/or putting on a satin bonnet or scarf to sleep.
Explain your “knotless part crochet braid” technique.
The knotless part of a crochet install is a method of installing the hair that allows for the part made to appear as if it is coming from the client’s root and scalp. This method hides the knot created from crocheting and gives a more natural appearing install. It is great especially when installing hair similar to the person’s natural hair texture or curl pattern.
How do you suggest a client keeps their real hair protected during an installation?
I always advise a client moisturizing their hair daily and if not, to do so every other day. A quick spritz to the hair and scalp [followed by] an application of the oil of their choice via a bottle with a pointy-nose nozzle.
What’s your secret for the perfectly curled crochet twists?
The trick is to give the hair ample time to dry. With good time, the hair can retain a strong, long, staying curl pattern. It is also best to curl prior to install.
Want more?
Follow Sheri on Instagram @Beautybysheri or Facebook at Beauty By Sheri.
Read my step-by-step process of maintaining Marley twists.
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The stigma of a black woman being typecast as a certain character doesn’t have to be accurate.
We wake up early, get the kids ready for school, then head to work where we spend eight hours being the lesser paid–but equally intelligent–wing woman to a coworker (that is likely white, male or both”>.
During lunch, the bestie calls to catch up on life and vent. After work, we come home to wait hand and foot on bae while making sure the kids are finishing their homework. While preparing dinner, we throw in that last load of laundry. By the time dinner is ready, it’s too late to go to the gym, so we feed ourselves with a laxative tea and sleep with a waist cincher. After all, we’ve got to keep it right and tight for the viewing pleasure of others.As black women, we do it all. We are loving daughters, nurturing mothers, supportive partners, successful businesswomen, determined students, and innovative entrepreneurs. But once we get home and the cape comes off, what happens to the burdens that are left for us to bear? Who is there to pick up our pieces when the madness of the world leaves us depleted of energy and hope? Finally, why are we afraid to admit when something just doesn’t feel right?
The stigma of a black woman being typecast as a certain character doesn’t have to be accurate. The truth is, many of the circumstances that cause us to neglect our mental health are because of systems put in place that never intended to assist us in the first place. While addressing the stereotypes alone certainly will not cure any conditions, it is a necessary first step in figuring out the why.
The stereotypes behind the stigma
Dating back to U.S. slavery, each plantation had Mammy: the black woman convinced that everyone else’s wellbeing mattered more than hers. The matriarch who suppresses her dreams to assist in fulfilling those of others around her, Mammy thrives on being the most obedient yet solid rock of a servant as possible. When it comes down to it, she’s clutch and people praise her for it. Behind closed doors however, her spirit is as equally worn out as her hands and feet. A tired life of failing to practice self-care causes her to become numb to her own desires.
Another popular stereotype within the black community is the Jezebel: someone with an unhealthy appetite for lust and sex.
As a child, perhaps, she was badly mistreated and abandoned by the paternal figure in her life. Because of this, she builds a mental wall as protection from any future chance of heartbreak. This complex leads her down an exhausting life path of finding love in all the wrong places. She has adapted to enduring mental—and sometimes physical—abuse from her partners. Over time, her sense of self-worth and purpose completely exit her soul.
Then there’s the modern day Sapphire, a black woman who wears a chip on her shoulder.
She has a tendency of spewing hatred and bitterness, especially in relationships, she enjoys using aggression to bully and emasculate. She is deemed the ‘angry black woman’ to society. At home, she hates the person she has become although she feels she has no control of her emotions.
While Hollywood chooses to tell one side of the story of the black woman, it rarely considers the state of her mental health.
Anxiety, mood, psychotic, eating, impulse control, personality, obsessive-compulsive and post-traumatic stress disorders impact millions of women in the black community. Scientific data wants us to believe that the mental health conversation is an all-encompassing umbrella that shouldn’t be race-specific due to a lack in evidence when in fact, race might actually be the biggest factor. According to Mental Health America, 6.8 million African Americans have been diagnosed with a mental illness and the number among black women in the U.S. is probably much greater than reported. The social stigma surrounding our community might turn some away from seeking the proper help. We are so used to displaying unwavering strength to the public that we only further separate ourselves from the idea of wholeness we strive to maintain.
Since childhood, we learn to consistently internalize certain feelings for the sake of those around us.
We grew up watching the maternal figures in our family braving any and every potentially meltdown-worthy situation, from finances to illnesses. The cycle has continued and needs to stop. We don’t have to be defined by the stereotypes; it is possible to break through to the other side and achieve total peace of mind. By first acknowledging the stereotypes behind the stigma, we can begin an open dialogue and from that point, we can choose to overcome our fears of weakness or vulnerability. Yes, we are black women and we can do it all. But we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help when we need it.
Follow me on Instagram @DevriVelazquez
photos courtesy of Rashad White + Monique Rodriguez
From gold teeth to cornrows, there’s been no shortage of black youth culture appropriation. Our fashions, hairstyles, and pride are labeled ‘trendy’ through the mainstream, non-white lens.
As pieces of the black diaspora are discarded and recycled for general consumption, we–the black youth–find crevices in the Earth that allow us to live our truths without judgment, even if only for a weekend. Enter: Afropunk Festival.
“Fans Are The Bands And Bands Are The Fans.”
In 2003, a vegan tattoo artist named James Spooner created Afro-Punk, a documentary film that followed the punk lifestyle of four black people. Its popularity took hold across the globe. Soon after Afro-Punk’s 100th screening in its first year of release, Matthew Morgan noticed the film’s growing fan base.
Connecting with Spooner, both creatives decided to give the people what they wanted while staying true to their own roots. This connection resulted in Liberation Sessions, an event showcasing performances by three bands followed by the documentary film screening.
These sessions’ successful turnouts led to enthused continuations in the form of picnics at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn. It was there that New York natives and world citizens, all adorned in a kaleidoscope of unique wares, mixed and mingled.
Following the success of both the documentary and its subsequent events, Spooner and Morgan wanted to offer fans more room for expression and connection.
After a couple of years in the making, they created a concert to rival all others: The Afropunk Festival.
No -isms Allowed
Beside each stage reads a lengthy list of things prohibited at the festival including racism, sexism and hatefulness. Basically, leave your discrimination at the door with your open cans—there’s only room for embracing positive vibes and authenticity. This year’s Afropunk Brooklyn reflected just that.
While Afropunk Festival was never intended to appeal to the masses, Spooner and Morgan understood its necessity in providing a safe space for millions of black youth with sentiments similar to its origin. What started as an indie film quickly broke out beyond the 66-minute tape roll to become a movement that is now heard and seen at events held annually in Paris, London and Brooklyn.
Afropunk has given a mic stand to a crowd that doesn’t always receive the most accurate or positive spotlight. Staying true to the original picnic-style concept, the festival has become a majestic source of all-around inspiration for the audience, the performers and the media.
I Am, We Are Afropunk
I have attended many festivals in my lifetime and I’ve yet to attend a festival that stands above Afropunk. This weekend reminded me of what I already knew but might have sailed away from within my own soul.
We must continue to live authentically and show off every color that resonates within us. Our values and morals do not have to be similar to that of ‘the mainstream.’ Popularity should never be an influence nor should it act as a barrier.
Because of this manifesto, we are deemed as punks with no purpose, rebels without a cause. Our response to pop culture is by bathing in its synthesized madness with a bold, knowing grin.
We know, feel, and revel in our truth on stages occupied by dope bands—one stage to rage to, the other to fulfill our need for nostalgia. We remove psychological and societal borders. We display our individual pictures of perfection.
It is here, at Afropunk Festival, where we delete our labels and live vibrantly, without restraint and in bold freedom. Rain or shine—we bask in the sun’s rays. Our hair stands tall and effortlessly with the elements.
Every adornment beset upon our bodies is the rawest reflection of our souls’ Southern trees, because we are not strangefruit. We are Afropunk.
Did you attend Afropunk this year?
Follow me @DevriVelazquez to see where I’m headed next! | Photos by @Stylefeen
Read my CurlFest + Essence Fest 2016 recaps!
After meeting registered nurse Monique Rodriguez, I immediately sensed an entrepreneur on the brink of shaking up the natural hair care industry.
With major political movements come new leaders of the era.
With the shift in leaders comes a handful of deceitful conglomerates hoping to cash in on a group with a lengthy history of oppression and underrepresentation. However, Monique Rodriguez isn’t one of them. The registered nurse wants to tie back the importance of health and wellness aspect to the natural hair movement. Enter: the birth of Mielle Organics. Here is the original interview published in 2014, when the brand was virtually unknown.
My name is Monique Rodriguez and I am from the Chicago area.
I am African American; my dad’s side of the family is Creole. I currently work as a registered nurse. My hair type is a combination of type 3b and 3c. I decided to start my own business after a tremendous amount of research. I learned that our skin absorbs a great amount of whatever products we put on our body and is absorbed in our bloodstream. This prompted me to start reading labels and studying the different preservatives, mineral oil and petroleum that are put in our hair and skin products, which I found to mostly be cheap and unsafe safe for the body.,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″>
I wanted to create a line that stays true to the word natural and organic.
The ingredients used in my products are certified organic [and made with] with natural herbs from the Earth. They all work well together to promote growth, retain length and maintain overall healthy hair. I always use my products on my hair then my children’s hair to make sure I absolutely love it before it goes public. I don’t believe in [there being] an overload of ingredients in a product for it to work. I believe in simplicity, so I take out all the unnecessary ingredients and doses that are not effective in growing and maintaining healthy hair. Our ingredients are simple, natural and still affordable.
With my background in science, I understand how the body works, as well as what will stimulate the hair follicles and produce growth.
I believe that if you truly believe in a product working what other person to be the test dummy other than the owner myself I have tested and used to ensure my products are effective. My hair has reached tailbone length with some of my tried and true techniques and remedies; I just wanted to combine them all together to work effectively in giving consumers the hair and health they have always dreamed of, too.
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A photo posted by Mielle Organics LLC (@mielleorganics”> on
My first line of products will be focused on natural health, hair growth and retention.
I will have a vitamin for women and children using natural herbs vitamins and minerals. There will also be a mint almond oil to target scalp care. It works well with the vitamins to not only take care of the insides, but also properly care for the outside; in order to produce healthy hair and growth, you have to maintain a healthy scalp. This oil improves circulation to promote growth and includes a conditioning oil that prevents breakage and improves elasticity [of the curls]. There are more exciting products that are still in the works.
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It is important to know what you are putting in and on your body. A lot of products use unsafe preservatives that are absorbed through your skin. All natural and organic are ingredients that are made by nature are much safer than using chemically-altered products.
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Cetaphil and Dove Moisturizing Lotion make my simple day and night skin routine. On my hair, I use Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil as a sealant and daily moisturizer. I also use a moisturizing cream from our line that I am working on but is not out quite yet. It keeps my curls soft, moisturized and not weighed down. I also apply a gel, depending on the type of look I want. I also like the Aussie 3-Minute Conditioner because it makes my hair soft. My favorite co-wash right now is by As I Am. And finally, vitamins and water keep my curls moisturized.
To stay up to date with my business endeavors and long curly hair tips, follow my personal Instagram @exquisitemo. Bring my vision to life by following the Mielle Organics Instagram, @MielleOrganics!
You can also ask me questions on my NaturallyCurly Q&A right now!
Editor’s note: Since the original publishing of this article on April 25, 2014, Monique has gone on to create a line for kids called Tinys and Tots.
The line features the following products, made with certified organic ingredients:
- Children’s Hair & Healthy Vitamins
- Sacha Inchi Cleansing Shampoo
- Sacha Inchi Detangling Conditioner
- Sacha Inchi Curl Enhancing Cream
Each product, including the Children’s Hair & Healthy Vitamins, was formulated to be gentle for children. Sacha Inchi Oil, a South American superfood that contains Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins and antioxidants, is the driving ingredient in each of Mielle’s hair maintenance products for children. For questions about the line, ask Monique by clicking here now!
Did you see the bride whose natural hair wedding pics went viral? I recently spoke with Nakyia Whitty to find out more about her inspiration behind the idea for her bridesmaids all rocking their ‘fros.
Hello! My name is Nakyia Whitty.
I live in Houston, Texas and work in Profits. I met my husband Jay at Texas Southern University through a mutual band friend. He and his twin were snare drummers and I am a majorette (dancer”>. It was definitely not love at first sight. Jay was a nice guy, but he was a freshman in campus, I was already seeing someone and didn’t look at him in that way at all.I’ve been wearing my hair natural for about four years now, and Jay is a big reason why.
He encouraged me when I initially came to him about my thoughts of going natural. He helped me learn my hair and even kept me going when I big chopped and couldn’t bring a comb through it to save my life! Jay was encouraging when I was self conscious about the length of my hair when it was a TWA. Today, Jay says he 100% prefers my natural hair over my relaxed hair. I have wanted to grow my hair out chemical-free for some time, but the idea wasn’t accepted well in my previous relationship, so I didn’t actually begin my journey until I started dating Jay. I stopped getting a relaxer and after about six months of new growth, I shared with him my plans for my hair. It was definitely a bonus that he received it well.,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″>
My hair grows this way. I wear it this way on a normal basis. I just can’t find a reason as to why I’d straighten it because I’m getting married.The majority of the women around me are natural. I knew I wanted to capitalize on that natural beauty whenever my Big Day came. So yes, it was planned–I asked everyone’s hair be fro’d out, big and uniquely styled. To each their own. It was just important for me to represent me, a natural black woman. My hair grows this way. I wear it this way on a normal basis. I just can’t find a reason as to why I’d straighten it because I’m getting married. I cannot understand the limits we put on our hair. I love my hair and I work with, appreciate, and slay with what I was born with.
Own it boo. Own it!
There is absolutely no reason you shouldn’t feel comfortable with your natural self. Start with yourself. Reevaluate what beauty is and/or what is appropriate to you and question why it doesn’t include you being you? Whatever it is, drop it! Who set these standards of beauty and of what is acceptable here or there? How come we (women of Afro descent”> in our natural state just didn’t make the cut? I seriously thought about that one day and those thoughts resulted in a woman who didn’t care what anyone had to say about her hair. I mean, my chin was to the sky that day. I wore my ‘fro picked all the way out; I got looks but didn’t pay attention to whether they were disgust or admiration. I didn’t care one way or the other–I walked in that grocery store like I owned it! Most powerful grocery trip, ever.,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″>
When I began my journey, I wasn’t confident at all. I slowly gained confidence in who I was until one day it just clicked: we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. No shame, just glory.
Experiment and find products that make your hair happy. It may take some time, effort and spare change but stay diligent, appreciate the process and you will begin to appreciate your natural self like none other.
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Follow Nakyia on Instagram and see more of her viral wedding photos here.
For me, the keys to a happy life are loving yourself, loving those around you, and choosing each day to be happy.
Ashly Rodriguez is a vlogger based out of Boston, MA. We asked her how she has found happiness in embracing her natural hair — despite insults and doubters. If you are struggling in your natural hair journey, or just want to hear some grounding positive words as you start your work week, take inspiration from Ashly, aka ActuallyAshly.
I’ve been embracing my natural hair for two years now. My hair is beautiful! Very thick and a mix of textures–coily and curly.
My family is absolutely supportive. At first, they weren’t sure how to react because all we knew growing up was the Dominican blowout. I was the first to really embrace my curls. After I continued on my journey, family members always ask how it’s going and even ask for tips for their hair. Now my sisters and my mother are starting to embrace their natural hair.
People have insulted my hair plenty of times, unfortunately. I just kill them kindness and hit them with some knowledge.
For me, the keys to a happy life are loving yourself, loving those around you, and choosing each day to be happy. I love working with the youth, so I am currently working with after school programs to start a girls group where young girls and teens can come chat and express themselves!
Subscribe to my YouTube channel, actuallyashly, follow me on Instagram @actually_ashly and Twitter @UmAshly.So if you are dealing with negative words from a stranger, an acquaintance or even from yourself, then trying killing that sentiment with kindness and knowledge! Here are a few encouraging phrases that you can practice saying if you need a pick me up, 10 Quotes to Help You Love Yourself More Today.
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Every aspiring hair and beauty guru needed to be in New Orleans last weekend–here’s why.
It’s been deemed the largest festival gathering tailored to Black women in the U.S. New Orleans promised to deliver when it started hosting Essence Festival and the summer 2016 installment came all the way through for our community.
This past weekend, dozens of celebrities graced the stage at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center while thousands of us packed inside so that we could catch a glimpse of them performing the beloved jams we were brought up on. Sweltering heat in the N.O. didn’t stop us from frolicking around in our sundresses, either. Various hair and beauty events also took place, including the New Orleans Natural Hair Expo. I showed up with sunscreen and sunnies in tow and plenty of humidity-blocking gel tucked away in my carryon. Not to my surprise, my curls were craving it–things got pretty hot, pretty fast.
Though my mind was [mostly] set on stuffing my face with some fresh beignets at some point of my New Orleans adventure, I was also looking forward to being in the city for obvious reasons pertaining to the Black hair and beauty world. The New Orleans Natural Hair Expo also made this city the place to be.
Did you see me unapologetically posing in front of a colorful door in the French Quarter with powdered sugar all over my dress? If not, let me convince you to consider taking a trip to NOLA next summer–whether you have a YouTube channel or blog of your own, or you just like to Insta-lurk on all the pretty women with perfect curls.
You will get to ask the brand questions about the product of theirs you’ve been curious to try.
A few months ago, the NaturallyCurly editors received a fascinating shaving razor by Bevel. Former NC editor and coily girl Cassidy Blackwell is doing some major things over there and extended an invite for me to stop by at their VIP Hour, held at the New Orleans ACE Hotel.
Fresh off the plane, I strolled over to the venue where I was greeted by a seductively, dimly lit lounge that offered up refreshing cocktails and none other than a live Bevel education session. Live discussions are always much more interesting than a YouTube tutorial, if you ask me! Cassidy was also glowing, per usual.
Your favorite beauty brand will let you in on a some little-known secrets.
Complimentary back and foot massages, makeup demos and of course, product: it’s safe to say that the SheaMoisture Salon Takeover was beyond satisfactory. I met up with YouTube content creator and NaturallyCurly contributor, Risas Rizos, for a meet-and-greet. Beautiful women and men graced the floor while a new brand, SheaGirl, premiered.
At the Natural Hair Expo, Taliah Waajid introduced her new high quality men’s grooming line, Uncle Jimmy. This is the renowned brand’s response the latest shift within the natural hair community: a zoomed-in focus on products catering to men’s hair and skincare. There were a ton of other recognizable brands making major moves, so being at the New Orleans Natural Hair Expo was the place to be to get the first look at them.
You will find emerging natural hair businesses to start supporting.
Like most naturals, I am always on the hunt for the next big thing in the industry. During my stop at the Natural Hair Expo, I discovered many local and small Black-owned brands with interesting products. Divine Luxury showed off summer themed cold-processed soaps and the Hair Body N Soul booth had some chemical-free hair and skincare items worth trying.
Over at the Essence Festival Beauty Bungalow, I made pit stops at longtime Black and natural hair Holy Grails, including Cantu, Mizani and Dark & Lovely Au Naturale. Each brand had colorful booths lined up with women hoping to meet its curly ambassador, a popular social media Instagrammer or YouTube content creator.
You will get to network with thought leaders in the hair and beauty industry.
Seeing a brand that I have supported for years from the ground up always doing extremely well gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling. I stopped at the Mielle Organics pop-up shop where founder wife-and-husband duo Monique and Melvin Rodriguez on stage sharing their industry insights to a crowd of other natural-haired entrepreneurs. regarding the brand. From what started as a two-product line of curly hair concoctions made at home has transformed into one of the fastest selling hair care brands being sold at major retailers like Sally Beauty.I also caught up with creator of Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace, Bella Kinks. The thought leader shared with me some exciting news for her next major natural hair event–stay tuned.
You are going to have a face to face conversation with your hair crush.
Getting to hug and take selfies with some of the most adored natural and natural haired women on Instagram is the icing on the cake (or in my case, the powdered sugar on the beignet”>.
To conclude my weekend in New Orleans, I attended the New Orleans Natural Hair Expo brunch, where I was overwhelmed in all the best ways. The bread pudding could have easily taken the win for the day, but then I was also surrounded by lovely women with natural hair.
Jessica Pettway, Hey Curlie, Yolanda Renee, Jasmine Winters, Dayna Dane and many other beauties were among the Tujague’s dining room full of powerful game-changers in the hair and beauty vlogging communities. Eden BodyWorks organized a discussion panel which touched on a number of relevant topics, including motherhood and what it takes to make a lucrative career from natural hair blogging.
If you’re considering a career in the natural hair and beauty industry in regards to vlogging or blogging, consider attending New Orleans next year for Essence Festival weekend. While you’re at it, purchase a ticket to a couple of events here and there (outside of the convention center”>. Attend the New Orleans Natural Hair Expo, too. See for yourself all the amazing opportunities that can come with getting that valuable face time with the brands and influencers you already have been following for years.
Read: CurlFest 2016 was lit–here’s all the proof you need
Are you going to AfroPunk in Brooklyn? Let us know in the comments below.
If you didn’t attend CurlFest this year, you missed something big and meaningful. From fluffed-out ‘fros to delectable twist-outs and eccentric protective styles, Sunday made Prospect Park a hair crush haven with all of the proper fashion, music and refreshments to compliment. However, it didn’t stop there.
“It’s important for women of color in this industry to collaborate,” says Director of Public Relations and founding member, Charisse Higgins. Since 2014, Higgins has been working with Creative Director Melody Henderson, Director of Events Tracey Coleman, Director of Strategic Partnerships Gia Lowe and Director of Business Strategy, Simone Mair, together known as Curly Girl Collective. Each founder brings to the table the amount of drive and passion necessary for organizing a platform that is successful in providing just the right amount of groundbreaking product information with entertainment. In recent years, the natural hair movement has made more waves than ever before. Curly Girl Collective’s opening speech reminded us all how far we’ve come as a community.“What I love most about the natural hair community is inclusion. When we first started, we had three sponsors. Last year, we doubled that. This year, we doubled that. Our clients have become almost like family. [We want everyone here to know] you are beautiful that way God made you. This is what CurlFest is all about.” This year’s sponsors included a list of core influential brands within the realm of hair and beauty: Centric was the event’s media partner, with “curlfriend partners” SheaMoisture, Tropic Isle Living, ORS, “curl crush partners” Cantu, CURLS, Phyto Specific, The Mane Choice, Eden BodyWorks, Dark & Lovely Au Naturale and “curly girl partners” Made Beautiful, Dove and Ouidad.
Each brand shared space on the park grounds to offer up free full-sized goodies for the crowd’s product junkies, as well as summery photo opps and light refreshments made just for CurlFest. From cooling lemonade and chilly snow cones to sizzling sandwiches out near the entrance, all edible consumption bases were covered; festival attendees gathered underneath colorful umbrellas and spread out on cozy picnic blankets on the picturesque greenery. The party atmosphere carried no shortage of good vibes and energy from all whimsical walks of life. Clever graphic tees displaying bold statements of natural hair and Black pride bedazzled the crowd. Social media influencers stopped to mingle and take photos with fans, bloggers and entrepreneurs alike. And if the vibrantly colorful clothing and accessories didn’t make it known that summer is officially here, bold patterns and eclectic jewelry adorned the temples of CurlFest attendees and everyone stood out in their own unique way.It’s safe to say that CurlFest 2016 was lit. Don’t believe me? Here’s proof.
Photos courtesy of yours truly. Follow Curly Girl Collective on Instagram for updates on upcoming endeavors.
From my clothing to my hair to my makeup, every choice I make is a form of radical self expression. I will bask in this glow.
The other day I was at the grocery store when a much older white man approached me saying, “You’re the rebellious type, huh? Kids these days. You’ll learn one day what is acceptable.”
I know, I was shocked, too. I never go to the grocery store.
But really, all jokes aside. What in the world made this man feel like his comment was 1″> appropriate enough to share and 2″> compelling enough that I would at least sort of feel him on the subject matter? Sadly enough, I’ve heard plenty of these types of comments since returning natural some years ago. I’ve always worn bright colors and shown pride in where I come from, but perhaps the combination proved to be too much for the man to quietly walk by without making a declaration against my ‘rebellious’ dress code.
That, my friends, is called privilege.
It is quite the cunning way of another person invoking a sort of unspoken authority over me through crafty words and behaviors, for no real reason other than the fact that they feel it is owed to them. It has a lengthy rap sheet, especially in American history. In his work, W. E. B. Du Bois would mention the “psychological wage”, intended to create a sense of superiority from one class or group of people over the other. We don’t have to get into a full blown history lesson; nonetheless, I have a feeling you have either witnessed or experienced firsthand this form of oppression before.Everything was wrong with this man’s statement and yet, I couldn’t help but shrug it off, dismissing him with my staleness. It reminded the fact that there is a huge population of people in the world who might share his two cents. I had questions that needed answers but I realized, in the moment, they were best asked internally and reflected upon rather than directing back to the man.
What or who deems my clothing and hair choices ‘acceptable’? What past or current systems have given you the impression that I am rebellious in nature, and do you agree with those notions? Finally, what implies that I would benefit from your ignorant comments?
Read more: You’ve Got to Stop Asking Curly Girls This
I am my own version of beautiful.
If someone disagrees with my my choices, he or she can take the issue up with themselves. From my clothing to my hair to my makeup, every choice I make is a form of radical self expression. I make the conscious decision to embrace every single part of me and will not allow another person to deter me from basking in its glow. The only correlation of my appearance to my personality is my stance against capitalism and Eurocentric beauty standards placed into my mind and the minds of my relatives. As Marshall Harford III said, “To love yourself is to hate Capitalism in all its forms.” Personally, I couldn’t agree more. If my hair and clothing offend you: sorry but I’m not sorry. Wake up.
How do you practice radical self love?
Keep up with me @DevriVelazquez | Photos by Kameron Jackson with @KidAtHeartTX
Resist the urge to mute your voice; its volume is both meaningful and impactful. You weren’t created to play it safe.
Give your mind, body and soul a clean slate.
You are not meant to have all the answers to the world, and that is quite alright. We were all placed here to be of use to each other and the world we live in. Don’t fear the bed of humility; sure, it can be dangerous if you mistake it for shame. However, if utilized effectively, it can be the resting place for all of your antiquated beliefs, force fed information that has further segregated you from humanity. In turn, it will allow you a rejuvenated outlook on the true opulence this world has to offer your journey.
To love yourself is to first accept the differences of others, wholly and without conditions. Your own beauty will radiate to the world and onlookers can learn a thing or two from your sense of pride.
Paint your own picture of idealism and flaunt it with pride.
Resist the urge to mute your voice; its volume is both meaningful and impactful. Self doubt holds only a precarious spot in the garden that is your consciousness but can be removed if you simply stop watering it. Defeat is only a state of psychological poverty, a disease that can be cured if you just stopped giving it so much life.
Tell me. What are you willing to do for your own happiness?
To love yourself is to accept the differences of others wholly and without conditions. Onlookers can learn a thing or two from your pride. Practice makes perfect: make at least one attempt each day to appreciate the uniqueness in another person. Observe the behaviors and fashions of people who appear extremely comfortable with themselves.
Filter your vision to only acknowledge realness and rawness, and don’t let a subjective opinion skew you from doing so. Step outside of your own comfort zone and greet a stranger with a compliment. Through regular practice, you will come to understand the meaning of panpsychism. Of course, you want to protect your heart and keep your mind. But what is the worst that could happen? You may live this entire life never knowing the full potential of your love.
Keep up with me @DevriVelazquez | Photos by Marcia Vergara
Read: The Natural Hair Movement Helped Me Love Myself (And My Community”>
Senator John McCain’s son rallies support behind a recent Old Navy ad showing an interracial family.
Jack McCain posted two couple selfies with his wife, Renee, to prove a point to “you ignorant racists” followed by the hashtag #lovewins.
From the Afro to the Akaba…
Black and Beautiful shows us a 1-minute glimpse into some other popular Nigerian hairstyles through the years.
This UK pop sensation wants you to know that perms are back.
Singer Kylie Minogue started sporting her perm from back in the day. The reason behind it? “My husband prefers my carefree curls.”
An illustrator pays homage to a legendary icon.
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Gary Card chronicled Prince’s famous looks from 1978 to 2013, which became a GIF to honor the late musician’s legacy on social media.
So who is Becky with the good hair? Iggy Azalea says, “not me.”
The Australian rapper replied to a fan tweet in regards to the popular Beyonce Lemonade lyrics “You better call Becky with the good hair.”
Men are not only embracing their natural hair, but learning the proper terms for it.
” src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/Y4_pjimage-15.jpg”>Until recently, columnist Damon Young had no clue that shrinkage existed–or what it was, as it pertains to natural hair, anyway.
‘Lemonade’ gives us life–starting with the hairstyles.
From Bantu knots to cornrows, a magnificent array of natural hairstyles are drizzled throughout Beyonce’s latest visual album, Lemonade.
When you Google the phrase “unprofessional hairstyles”, what are your results?
This tweet went viral to bring light to the stigma surrounding natural hair in the workplace. “Professional hairstyles,” on the other hand, shows a dramatic contrast in imagery. (And yes, that’s our own Video Manager, Nikki, in the top left”>.
Porosity is how easily your hair is able to absorb and hold moisture and chemicals. Your hair can be low, medium, or high porosity.
I have naturally curly hair that has high porosity.
Although I have refrained from using direct heat throughout my entire natural hair journey, I have permanently colored my hair. Aside from genetics, the chemicals in hair dye have contributed to me having raised, damaged cuticles. As a result, my curls also have the following characteristics:
- Frizzy
- Dry
- Coarse
Frizz
High porosity hair sucks up any bit of moisture it can find in the atmosphere. For this reason, frizz happens. To combat that halo atop the crown of my head, I use an anti-humectant product to seal in moisture. Anti-humectants prevent moisture from the air from entering the hair shaft and causing strands of hair to expand and lose definition.
For some naturals, this is when non water-soluble silicones come into play. In 2015 I had sworn off using silicones as much in my regimen, as they can clog my scalp, which isn’t great for someone who wants their hair to grow at a healthy rate. To combat this, I’ll sometimes skip pre-pooing and jump straight to clarifying with a good pH-balancing shampoo on days I use a styling product with silicones.Lanolin and beeswax not only block humidity from entering, but fight frizz. When applied in sections, a wax can add incredible definition and clumping to my head of high porosity curls. Certain fatty alcohols also have the same effect on porous hair, making for great styling ingredients.
I usually wash and condition my hair at night before bed, sealing with a moisturizing butter and oil blend. This gives plenty of time for the cocktail to penetrate deep into my hair shaft and replenish any weakened curls. At night, put my hair in a multi-pineapplebecause a single one doesn’t do any justice for my haircut. If you’re a crazy sleeper like I am, put a satin cap over your entire head and wrap a satin scarf around your edges. This will further fight a chance of frizz the next morning.
Dryness/Coarseness
High porosity hair absorbs water quickly; it also loses it just as fast. This results in hair that feels dry, coarse, and brittle to the touch. Choosing a reliable leave-in conditioner with slippery, hydrating emollients will be just the refreshment porous hair needs on most days.
By nature, textured hair has a hard time retaining moisture throughout the entire length of the strand compared to straight hair. Because of this, I try not to go without getting trims every four months or so to preserve my hair’s overall health.
Twice a month, a good deep condition with hydrolyzed proteins is also imperative to softening and strengthening my curls. This makes for easier manipulation throughout the weeks, only having to rely on co-washing and moisturizing to re-define.In order to make sure I’m paying equal attention to each high porosity curl in my head, a twist-out, Bantu knot-out, or twist-and-curl are reliable ways to evenly distribute moisture to dry curly hair. An added benefit is that these styles give naturals a damage-free stretch to their usual curl pattern.
Do you have high porosity hair?
Let me know how you combat frizz and dryness. Keep up with me @DevriVelazquez | Photos by @reesevphoto with @PsycheJewelry[prodmod]
My name is Crystal, born and raised in Northern Jersey. I’m a curly enthusiast, fashionista, brand influencer, blogger, and baker. But aside from all of those hobbies I have a career in styling. I am currently a Stylist for “Century21 Department Store” eCommerce stores. I work in the photo studio, where we shoot and style all merchandise and creative banners for the site. It’s a perfect career for me, as I consider myself to be a creative person; which is why I also take interest in all of my hobbies, as I find them to be a creative outlet.
I’ve been embracing and wearing my natural curls for about 4 years now.
Before that, I constantly wore my hair straight and preferred it that way. I always thought my hair looked better when I had a blowout. It wasn’t until I decided to do my research and learn how to properly care and style my naturally curly hair, that I then began to accept and embrace my hair in its natural form.
My “hair type”? Curly Blonde Bombshell!
Haha! I love my curly locks, they are somewhere between a loose wave and a tight curl, I call them curly fries sometimes. I guess I would say I have a head full of soft, bouncy, spirally curls.
I don’t typically go by the texture typing system. I usually just say I have curly hair, so I don’t often get technical and use texture terms to describe my curls. I like to experiment with different hair products and routines. It doesn’t matter to me if someone says a product is for a certain curl pattern–I am still going to try it for myself.
I prep for a good hair day the night before.
At night, I put my hair up into a pineapple. When I wake up, I take my hair out of it, flip my head upside down, and softly shake out my hair with my fingers (starting at the roots”>. If needed, I’ll spritz my hair with a water bottle to reactivate the product that’s already in my hair. I might also apply more of the styling product to revive my curls. While my hair is air drying, I start my beauty routine by washing my face with my Clarisonic. Then, I moisturize with a face cream. I don’t wearing too much makeup on my face on a daily basis (as I am prone to breakouts”>. Instead of using foundation, I opt for a BB Cream. I love using Garnier’s Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream. I also apply an eye primer on my eyelids to reduce the oiliness throughout the day. I then fill in my eyebrows a bit with my Anastasia Beverly Hills Perfect Brow Pencil. After, I curl my eyelashes and apply mascara. I finish off by applying a little chapstick or coconut oil on my lips to hydrate them. If I’m feeling up for it–or have a little more time to spare–I’ll add a little blush on the cheeks and do my favorite “cat eye” liner. That’s my beauty routine during the week, when I have to get up early for work. I do play around with more makeup on the weekends when I have more time on my hands.I learned how to love my features and stop trying to fit in with someone else’s perception of beauty.
If I were only allowed three things on a deserted island…
The first would be my DevaCurl One Condition because it easily gets all those pesky little knots out and leaves my curls so soft. I also use it as a leave-in or a curl refresher–it works in so many different ways.
Speaking of products with multiple uses, my next choice would have to be my unrefined coconut oil. I can use it to deep condition my curly locks, or use it on my chapped lips or dried skin.
Lastly, I would need my wide tooth comb. Sometimes I’m just not up for finger detangling. Especially when my curls have decided to collide and twirl around each other creating those annoying knots that are hard to get out, but that’s when my handy dandy wide tooth comb comes into play.
Throughout my journey, I learned how to embrace and accept myself for who I really am.
I’ve learned how to let go of some insecurities, embrace my natural features, and to love what makes me…ME! I learned how to love my features and stop trying to fit in with someone else’s perception of beauty. My curly hair is part of my identity and I have learned to fall in love with that. I took the time to learn the proper ways of caring for my hair and its one of the best things I’ve ever done. My hair has become one of my favorite features about myself. Nothing is better than that feeling when you’ve finally reached the point where you now embrace something that you’ve tried to change for most of your life.
Keep up with me! Instagram: @Style_Dose | Blog: StyleDose.com
What stories are you reposting today?
Let us know in the comment section below.
This Oscar winning actor wants you to remove this popular oil from your regimen.
Environmentalist and award-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio has posted recent Indonesian vacation pics in an effort to urge his fans to stop using palm oil, which is in over half of commercial food, hair, and beauty products in the U.S. market.
When you look in the mirror, do you like what you see?
No, seriously. You’ve heard of body dysmorphia before–but what about hair dysmorphia? It’s a real thing that you may be in denial about.
This woman was discriminated against for bunning her natural hair.
A Toronto restaurant has been under social media scrutiny for requesting a former employee to alter her natural hair or be sent home.
There’s a (new”> scientific explanation for your hair curling up on its own.
The next natural hair trend is perfect for Spring.
“Afro Bloomin” is just one of the many photo series taking note of the viral trend displaying flowers bedazzling a beautiful curly and coily coiff.
This brand offers 300 million combinations for a custom shampoo & conditioner set.
According to a cosmetic chemist, computer scientist, and engineer, our hair required an algorithm to achieve perfection.
Ellie Goulding is sporting poodle curls these days.
Or at least this particular day, in which the singer posted a roller set selfie that Daily Mail UK called both “sultry” and “wild”.
Another Victoria’s Secret Model explains why she’s returning to natural hair (hint: it wasn’t a choice”>.
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Ebonee Davis thanks a keratin treatment that left her hair “deteriorated” for the decision to start over.
What are you talking about this month?
Let us know in the comment section.
What these recipes will do:
- balance your scalp’s natural oil production
- lower DHT levels, promoting hair growth
- reduce the risk of infection and allergic skin reactions
- restore your hair’s natural luster
Rosemary oil is an incredibly powerful and potent; It is green in appearance with thin, needle-like leaves with a deep, pungent smell. Note that rosemary–like other essential oils–should be used in conjunction with a carrier (or base”> oil in order to be applied directly to the skin. This essential oil has the ability to fight off fungal and bacterial infections, containing a high amount of the antioxidant ORAC, a free radical fighting agent that helps curb inflammatory reactions that those with skin sensitivities deal with. This includes scalp fungus folliculitis (scalp bacteria”> which cause itchiness. Rosemary is also known to lower DHT, improving hair growth and reducing premature baldness or gray hair.
For an oily, greasy scalp, a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond will balance your scalp’s natural sebum production while moisturizing your strands. It is known to also promote stronger, healthier hair and at the same time, help fight against toxic environmental factors that also cause the greasy feeling. These recipes also work well after taking down a protective style like a sew-in or Marley twists.DIY Rosemary Scalp Rinse
1. Crush fresh rosemary in your hands to bring out the aroma.
2. Place the crushed herbs into a glass bottle and fill with a carrier oil of your choice (almond, olive, coconut oil”>.
3. Store the bottle away in a cool, dark place for 2 to 4 weeks.
4. Apply the infused rosemary oil directly onto your scalp. It can be strained and used as a hot oil treatment for weekly deep conditioning, or as a pre-poo treatment before clarifying with a sulfate shampoo for your greasy, oily hair.
DIY Rosemary ACV Rinse
1. Crush fresh rosemary and add to a jar of apple cider vinegar. 2. Follow the same steps as the oil and store in a cool, dark space for 2-4 weeks. 3. Shampoo hair with a lathering sulfate shampoo. 4. Mix 1/4 cup of your rosemary vinegar to 1 cup of water and apply directly to your scalp. Don’t rinse out this This is best used as a gentle cleanser, a hair treatment for Ph balance, or for shine and conditioning.Now Foods Essential Oils, Rosemary, retails for around $6.10 in the U.S. You can get this at the all-natural section of your grocery or wellness store.
1. Introduce yourself!
My name is Jewellianna and I am originally from Washington DC but moved to Maryland in 2005! Last May, I graduated from Salisbury University where I majored in Psychology. Since graduating, I lived in Washington DC for a few months but now I am living back in Maryland. And just a few weeks ago, I started a new job at a real estate agency. Oh and my hair–I am not a fan of the hair typing system.2. Why did you start a YouTube channel, and what is your main focus?
I wanted there to be a way for me to answer questions from my Instagram followers. I originally started an Instagram to connect with my friends, but soon I started to get lots of questions from people about my hair. YouTube was a way for me to share my knowledge and experiences with people in an easier, more informative way. I never expected for my channel to grow so much and I am so thankful to my friends and supporters on Instagram for pushing me to make a YouTube channel. Many of my YouTube videos are about natural hair care and beauty in general.
3. What makes you feel beautiful?
What makes me feel beautiful is self-love. I don’t care if I’ve spent hours doing my hair, makeup, and picking out the best outfit; if I don’t have self-love, then nothing in the mirror will make me feel beautiful. For me, self-love comes from accepting the fact that I have many flaws and that I will never be the most beautiful, outgoing, friendliest, or successful person. To truly love myself in all of my entirety, I must accept and love my flaws, past mistakes, and faults because they are JUST as important in making me the individual that I am as my more positive and admirable qualities. Honestly, self-love is what makes me feel beautiful.
When I look for confidence or reassurance in external sources or people, sooner or later I am always disappointed.
4. Where do you draw your confidence from?
I draw my confidence from within. When I look for confidence or reassurance in external sources or people, sooner or later I am always disappointed. I have come to know that everything that I need to be at peace and to be confident in myself, is within me. Reading about spirituality, inner peace, and inner growth, spending time alone and away from electronics, being around positive people, and giving love, makes me feel confident. When I spend too much time tuned into other people’s lives on social media and not enough time with myself and my inner needs, I start to lose focus and purpose and that is when the insecurities begin. Don’t get me wrong, I love social media and going out with people, but becoming too immersed in it and relying on it for happiness takes a toll on my confidence and inner wellbeing.
5. Who is your celeb crush?
I actually don’t watch television at all–I haven’t owned one in 5 years. I usually am not ‘keeping up with’ the latest trends or celebrities. And I actually don’t consider myself a stylish or trendy person either. I usually just wear whatever is in my closet and is going to flatter my body. I will do hair and makeup that I know will work. I am trying to be more experimental and I’m trying to step up my game with my style, hair, and beauty this year; so we will see.
6. What’s the worst thing someone has said to you about your hair?
My hair has been called a disgusting mess, fake, too much, ridiculous, nappy, etc. These are all things that people have said online. Most people don’t say mean things in person. Sometimes, when I am sitting in public, I will hear people behind me talking about my “weave” and how it is just “too much” for them. Of course, these people don’t think that I can hear them, or maybe they don’t care? But most of the negative comments are about the volume of my hair and how it is “too much” for them. It’s understandable though because I know that I do have a massive amount of hair and sometimes it’s a lot for me also!
7. How do you deal with online trolls and haters? Do you respond or just ignore them?
I used to respond to them, but never in an aggressive way. One of the worst things about social media is how the internet causes a disconnect between two sentient human beings. It creates this illusion that because I am on the internet, that I am different; and some people forget that I live a regular life and that the internet doesn’t take away my emotions and feelings. I am a very loving and friendly person so I used to get so caught off guard when people would react to me in a very unloving and unfriendly manner or when people would misunderstand my intentions. When I see negative comments, I know that they are always coming from people who aren’t completely happy with themselves or their lives; only hurt people will hurt people. There isn’t a single person who is truly confident, full-filled, and filled with self-love who will purposefully bring down another person. So I realized that reacting in an unloving way to a person who is lacking in love in some way–whether it is self-love or external love–isn’t appropriate. Now I just ignore negative comments. If I could, I would honestly give each of them a hug and a compliment because I know that love is all they need!
8. What do you hope to accomplish in your career?
I don’t have a clear plan for my future right now because I haven’t found my true passion yet. But my top dream job right now would be to become a college professor! I love to educate people and I love the freedom and creativity of being a college professor and how they can choose how they teach their classes. I was lucky to have amazing college professors who have made a huge impact on my life, and I would love to do the same! I think a little part of me would also like to become a successful YouTuber. I like how I have a more intimate connection with my subscribers right now. A part of me is afraid of what comes with being a successful a YouTuber, which is being held up on a pedestal while underneath a microscope. But the more that I grow and develop, the less afraid I will be of taking chances and being criticized, judged, and misunderstood.
Follow me @jewejewebee on Instagram & subscribe to my channel, JeweJewe Bee.
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Hey, Naturally Curly world! Devri here. I recently got temporary faux locs installed, and I loved them!
There are, however, five things I realized were important to have done beforehand in order to make it an even more seamless install next time. In the words of DJ Khaled here are my 5 “Major Keys” for a successful faux locs install.
1. Protect your hairline.
I had my stylist do the crochet braiding technique for a more natural appearance of my faux locs. This was my first time trying it, and frankly, it hurt my scalp way more than other techniques we’ve used. If your stylist is yanking too hard on your scalp to keep the extension hair in place, don’t be afraid to let them know! If you notice your baby hair has little white bulbs, that means your hair is being pulled too tightly, which might result in unnecessary hair fall or in the long run, thinning.
2. Clean and hydrate your scalp.
Think of your natural hair as a blank canvas for some amazing art that’s about to happen. This art is meant to be protective, encouraging hair growth while taking a break from manipulation. Make sure you properly cleanse and hydrate it beforehand; I usually pre-poo and clarify the night prior to my appointment.
3. Stay moisturized.
Again, you don’t want anymore manipulation than what is needed to install your faux locs–the less, the better. Do yourself a favor and deep condition or do a hot oil treatment on your hair the day before. Drink plenty of water, too, to allow the proper bloodflow to your scalp, which not only promotes healthy hair growth, but eases the manipulation.
4. Avoid the headache.
This doesn’t get talked about a lot in the community, but all that tension on your scalp can do a number on your head. I get painful headaches, and if I don’t take two ibuprofen about an hour beforehand, count me out of a long three-hour (or sometimes longer”> protective style installation.
5. Detangle beforehand.
Trust me, your hairstylist won’t have mercy on your tender headedness. The crochet technique is a little different than others; it requires literal crocheting of the hair into your existing cornrows. It’s better to do the detangling yourself, so it’s a seamless installation that won’t leave your scalp in pain.
Have you rocked faux locs yet?
Tell us your experience! Subscribe to The Twist by NaturallyCurly on YouTube.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”6″>
Are you getting bored with styling your wavy bob (wob”> every single day?
If you’re a low-maintenance kind of girl when it comes to beauty, these 3 simple looks are perfect for you. All you need are 3 bobby pins to freshen up your wob. These looks are also great if you are attempting to grow out your bob and want to creatively hide your split ends in the front without resorting to scissors. Our type 2 editor Susonnah shows you how.
1. Condition your hair.
Susonnah uses Mop Top Daily Conditioner. It is protein rich and contains soothing botanicals, ideal for helping natural definition bounce back without a lot of manipulation.
2. Apply a creamy leave-in and detangle.
While your wavy hair is still wet in the shower, apply a quarter sized amount of Karen’s Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia Leave-in Conditioner in the hair. It has slip and is light, making it great for detangling looser curl patterns.
3. Air dry and lightly scrunch hair.
To speed up the process, Susonnah puts on her Studio Dry Hair Drying Gloves while lightly gripping each clump of waves. They are fast-absorbing and will encourage natural definition without causing frizz that a terry cloth towel or t-shirt tend to do.
4. Apply a light hold styling product.
Using DevaCurl Light Defining Gel, twirl a few pieces in the front for a more structured wave. Run a thin layer of AG Hair Cosmetics Beach Bomb–it is alcohol-free and infused with keratin, guaranteeing a lasting natural bounce to the wave and sheen that will last for a couple of days.
The looks
- Casual & Chic: Place 3 bobby pins next to each other, parallel, on a front section of waves.
- Flirty & Fun: Take a front section of waves and twist it to the back center of your head. Use 3 bobby pins spaced out to keep the twist in place.
- Pretty & Glam: Grab a front section of waves (or your bangs”> and gently pull it up and back on the top of your head to form a slight bump. Space out the 3 bobby pins to keep the ends in place.
Is Susonnah your hair twin?
