Search Results: Lisa Michelle
Can you feel the excitement in the air? The 15th Annual World Natural Hair Show (WHNS”> is rapidly approaching, and I for one can’t wait to be in the building! Even as a long time natural, this will only be my first experience at the WNHS, the world’s largest natural hair show. This huge event will take place at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park, Georgia on April 28 and 29. The spring show usually attracts record breaking crowds and it’s sure to be another phenomenal event!
The World Natural Hair Show is presented by none other than Taliah Waajid, one of the premier natural hair care brands. Over the past 25 years, Taliah Waajid has maintained a strong presence in the natural hair care world and has been integral in creating a welcoming and educational experience that is the WNHS. What began in 1994 with a mere 25 vendors has grown to showcase well over 200 of the best hair, health and beauty brands. And how about over 30,000 beautiful people for some natural hair inspiration? I can’t wait to be amongst the sea of curls, coils and locs!
Events, Prizes and So Much More
To kick off the festivities this year, they’re hosting the official World Natural Hair Party Affair at Primal Atlanta on Friday April 27. Attendees will be able to mix, mingle and show off their best natural hair styles and fashions. R&B star Chrisette Michele will be co-hosting along with Taliah Waajid, who will also be doing a meet and greet. I’m excited to rub shoulders with these natural hair stars and who knows, I may even win a giveaway, too!
The two day event begins Saturday April 28, and offers something for everyone, from free workshops to style competitions and much more. Many of the consumer workshops revolve around helping you attain and maintain healthy mind, body, and soul, while top brands like Hair Rules and Taliah Waajid will provide educational workshops to the public as well. The 2013 World’s Next Top Natural Hair Model will also be named during the “Crowning Affair” ceremony Saturday night.
I’m also looking forward to the Social Circle featuring several top bloggers including Mae of “Natural Chica.” My buddy Crystal Knight will also be there representing Houston and her natural hair group Naturally Happy Hair. There’s even going to be a live “Big Chop or Not” session on Saturday too! And for all my fellow product junkies out there, you know what I’m most looking forward to…PRODUCTS!!!
This is going to be an awesome weekend and you definitely don’t want to miss out! You can find out more information about the show, schedule of events and buy tickets by visiting the Natural Hair Show website.
What are you most looking forward to at the show?
We’ve all been trained to use shampoo to wash our hair, but what does it really do to your curls? Harsh detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS”> are usually responsible for the squeaky sound and dry feeling associated with freshly washed hair. The entire purpose of shampoo is to remove product buildup from our hair, but this also leads to the removal of important natural oils our curls need.
So how can you clean your hair without the dryness associated with traditional shampoos? Let’s take a look at some reasons why you may want to explore shampoo-free alternatives. These options can help you retain moisture and elasticity while gently cleaning and conditioning your hair.
Textured Hair & Hair Care Products
Curly hair presents unique issues that need to be addressed when it comes to cleansing our curly, wavy and coily tresses. Many ladies have realized that the products they use can help or hinder the cleaning, conditioning and styling of their hair. Using special curly hair products should address the inherent challenges of dryness, tangling and breakage. These products typically incorporate more conditioning and moisturizing ingredients that help improve the health and manageability of your curls.
Stripping Detergents
Traditional detergents found in shampoo will strip the natural oils needed to maintain the health of your hair. This can lead to dry, tangled hair which is a curly girl’s worst hair nightmare. The ingredients found in typical shampoos usually include these detergents and harsh surfactants that remove not only the buildup from product use, but the natural oils your scalp produces to nourish your strands. Sulfate-free shampoos and cleansing conditioners utilize mild cleansers to effectively restore your hair to a fresh state.
Hydration is Key
Curly hair needs more moisture to keep the curls manageable, bouncy and shiny. Even though water is the only true moisturizer, you can look for certain ingredients that make it easier for your hair to retain all the moisture it can. Traditional shampoos remove both buildup and natural oils from your hair, but they don’t do much to return the moisture to your now stripped strands. Conditioning cleansers often contain extra conditioning ingredients that help to replenish your tresses.
Shampoo-Free Cleansing
Did you know that certain methods used to clean curly hair can boost shine, reduce frizz and make detangling a breeze? The Curly Girl method (CG”> allows your hair to retain some of its natural oils while removing the majority of the extra residue that can build up on your strands. Using more natural products coupled with the CG method yields soft, bouncy and smooth curls that look and feel great, all without using harsh shampoos.
A Burgeoning Market
There are new shampoo-free products on the market geared towards keeping your curly hair beautiful. Brands like Curl Junkie, Blended Beauty and L’Oreal have created cleansing conditioner products that address the major challenge of cleansing our hair without causing excessive dryness. Try switching out your shampoo for a gentle cleansing conditioner and experience the difference it makes in your hair.
Taking the Shampoo-Free Plunge
When you’re ready to take the steps to go the shampoo-free route, there are a few things to consider first. Because most cleansing conditioners and other no-shampoo products contain only mild cleaners, remember to concentrate on applying the product directly to your scalp. Most curlies find that they don’t have to increase their wash days, which is great, but they may use more product to complete the washing routine. It’s also important to monitor other styling products you may be using as well. Minimize the use of ingredients like silicones and mineral oil that coat your strands and typically require a clarifying shampoo to remove.
It is important to keep in mind that, while this method works well for many, it may not work for some, and that’s okay! The beauty of being natural is that you can experiment until you find something that works for your hair.
Happy styling, curlies!
Hair products and styling techniques are two main factors in any curly girl’s hair care regimen. As more people decide to educate themselves on taking better care of their hair, the initial focus usually shifts to the products that are being used. Not only are the products important, but the ingredients within those products are also becoming a hot topic in the natural and textured hair community. This leads us to take a closer look at the trend towards no shampoo and how that may help improve the health of your hair.
Traditionally, shampoo is used to rid the hair and scalp of product buildup. Everybody is familiar with the “wash, rinse and repeat” routine and the usual dryness of the squeaky clean that follows. Thanks to the growing popularity of the Curly Girl (CG”> method which encourages the use of conditioner over traditional shampoo to wash your hair, many are looking at alternatives to cleanse their hair. These new options allow your hair to be cleansed thoroughly, but without the stripping of natural oils that is normally associated with traditional shampoos.
Cleansing Conditioners
Some of the newest products on the market are cleansing conditioners, and believe me, they can make a world of difference in your hair. Cleansing conditioners offer gentle cleansing while providing extra nourishment and conditioning for your hair. These products usually are free of harmful ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS”> and other harsh detergents found in traditional shampoo, replaced instead by milder, less irritating surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine. This type of cleanser doesn’t typically remove all of the natural oils from your hair, allowing you to still achieve clean hair without feeling stripped.
Changing to Shampoo-Free
It’s quite easy to incorporate a cleansing conditioner into your hair care regimen. Simply reach for the cleansing conditioner instead of shampoo and focus the product onto your scalp, making sure to be gentle as to not disrupt the hair shaft. You may find that you use more of the cleansing conditioner, and that the lather is not quite as much as a traditional shampoo. Just keep in mind that the lather generated is not necessarily an indication of whether the product is working or not; in fact, many cleansing conditioners or low/no shampoo products are low-lather products.
Benefits of No Shampoo
Many curlies note a significant improvement in the health of their hair after going the cleansing conditioner/CG route, noting how they now have less frizz, stronger hair and hair that retains more moisture than it did using traditional shampoo products. It does help to reduce the number of silicone-based products used during your hair care regimen, as silicone generally requires the use of a clarifying shampoo to successfully remove.
If you’re willing to give the no shampoo method a try, there are some great products on the market ready to improve the health of your curls! L’Oreal has recently come out with an affordable new cleansing conditioner that offers gentle cleansing and maximum conditioning. Other popular low/no shampoo products include DevaCurl No-Poo, Curl Junkie Daily Fix Cleansing Conditioner and Wen Cleansing Conditioner.
Try something new today, your curls will thank you tomorrow!
Combine a beautiful lady, one daring haircut and a dose of freedom mixed with confidence and you get a sexy TWA wearing woman. Oh, you didn’t know? Let me say it again: TWAs are SEXY!
There’s something to be said for a woman who can shed her hair and still maintain her charm and allure. TWAs, or teeny weeny afros, are attractive, glamorous and can be downright sexy!
Styling
Whether you’ve done the Big Chop or just cut your hair into the style, having short hair doesn’t mean your styling options are limited. Sure you can throw on a headband or sport a pouf, but you can create some cool, chic styles too. In fact, there are many ways you can rock your TWA and still be fashionable.
If you have at least a few inches of hair, you have more than enough to play and experiment with. Try an asymmetrical style for a fun and charming look. Go for a faux hawk if you’re feeling a bit bolder! These festive and party-worth styles will garner the attention of the room, allowing you and your hair to be the life of the party.
You can also just rock your TWA as-is and still be free and sexy at the same time.
Create a cool, coily style by finger coiling your hair.
Take a small section of hair, add a bit of pomade and twirl your hair around your finger, creating springy tight coils. You can do them as big or as little as you like to create your own signature style. If you’re wearing a short, cropped look, be sure to moisturize your hair regularly so it doesn’t become dry and frizzy.
Color
You have to have a certain amount of confidence to rock a short, sassy cut. This, my dear friends, is called swag.
A short cut is a great time to try out color too! Since you will experience grow out relatively quickly from a TWA, you’ll be able to change up your looks just with a haircut or trim. Try a bold red, a sweet honey blonde or even go for a shade to match your skin tone. This creates a one-of-a-kind look that will certainly get you noticed!
As your hair starts growing out, you’ll be even more aware of your hair growth. You can begin to experiment with placing color in certain areas of your hair to give an even more stunning appearance. Adding color in the front of your hair will help frame your face, giving a pop of color and whimsy feel to any length of hair.
Color can also be added to your accessories stash too. You can be bold not only with your jewelry, but with scarves and makeup as well. You have the freedom to pull together different pieces into a cohesive, fresh look no matter what color hair you’re rocking.
Confidence
You have to have a certain amount of confidence to rock a short, sassy cut. This, my dear friends, is called swag. Swag is the difference between dreading going outside with your TWA and holding your head up proud. This confidence is what makes a woman irresistible to the opposite sex and the hair crush of fellow naturals.
Show off your swag by building your accessories collection. Jazz up your look with some funky glasses, shoulder dusting earrings or a bold lip color. The options are endless when it comes to dressing up your TWA so don’t be afraid to try something new and different. Now is your chance to express yourself beyond your hair!
Want More?
Check out our TWA photo gallery and see how hundreds of other naturals are rocking their TWA.
Final Thoughts
TWAs don’t have to be boring and they most definitely can be some of the fiercest styles in the natural hair community. Flaunt your kinks with confidence and know that you are indeed beautiful. Wear your teeny weeny afro proudly and you may encourage others to do the same.
Happy styling!
To big chop or not? It’s a question many ladies ask themselves when considering going natural. After that question come questions and comments from your friends, family and even strangers: Why did she do that? Is she gay? Is she trying to be a boy?
Believe me, it can be a cruel world out there. Most people don’t understand the psychological effects on a woman when she drastically cuts her hair, whether by choice, for health reasons or otherwise.
The questioning of your sexuality is often the first thing that comes up for discussion. But does a short curly haircut define your sexuality?
The Case of Emma Watson
Recently, actress Emma Watson spoke out about how she was addressed in the media after she debuted her new sleek, cropped haircut. The world watched the beautiful young star grow up on screen as Hermoine in the “Harry Potter” saga. In 2010, as the series came to an end, Emma shed her “Harry Potter” image and went for a drastic pixie cut that thrust her into the fashion forefront.
She told Entertainment Weekly that she “wanted to do this since I was about 16,” and that the cut was “the most liberating thing!”
Just recently Emma revealed to The Independent that initial reactions weren’t the most positive. She discussed how “journalists were asking me if this meant I was coming out, if I was a lesbian.”
Although this was a personal decision for her, the media found a way to insert themselves and make even a super star question her own style choices.
The Not So Opened Minded Beginnings
Ellen DegeneresSo how did society come to associate a short hairstyle with lesbianism? In the 1920s, English author Radclyffe Hall described a particular “uniform” appearance of the lesbian woman, featuring cropped haircuts and pantsuits. The short haircut was associated with a woman seeking a more masculine appearance. This stereotype of a lesbian hairstyle is not confined to a particular racial group, but crosses many nationalities.
Probably one of the most famous visuals of this appearance is TV personality Ellen DeGeneres. In addition to being an advocate of gay rights, comedienne Wanda Sykes also rocks a gorgeous mane of cropped, naturally curly hair.
And As for Myself
Personally, I love the short-cropped cut. As Emma described, it really does something to liberate a woman from the standard of what society deems beautiful. It’s sad that people will often cast an opinion on or provide reasoning for the personal decision that you’ve made.
A short cut doesn’t mean you’re gay. It doesn’t mean you’re crazy. It doesn’t mean you’re trying to be a boy. How a person wears his or her hair is not indicative of a certain lifestyle. No one is defined by his or her hair, and we know that best here at the NaturallyCurly community.
The best thing we can do as women is to be as confident in ourselves and not let the ignorance of society influence how we choose to look and feel. So go ahead and crop your long manes and big chop your relaxed hair. TWAs are sexy no one can resist a pixie!
No matter who you are, your hair is simply an expression of your style and never an expression of who you are as person.
Saturday afternoon marked the end of a more than two decade legacy when pop music superstar Whitney Houston passed away. I don’t know about you, but as an 80s baby, Whitney was very big in my household growing up. When singing in the church choir as a little girl, I would always think of myself as the next Whitney. With the simply stunning rendition of the National Anthem at the 1991 Super Bowl, along with some of the world’s greatest songs like “Greatest Love of All” and her cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” it’s fair to say that we may never hear another voice like hers again.
Houston began her journey in the music industry by singing in her church choir. Her mother, Cissy Houston, is a Grammy award winner as well, so she had an excellent foundation to become the international star that we knew and loved. We were formally introduced to Whitney through her self-titled 1985 debut album. Arguably one of her best albums, it featured hits like “You Give Good Love,” “Saving All My Love for You,” “Greatest Love of All” and, one of my absolute favorites, “How Will I Know.”
This debut effort generated three number one singles and eventually earned her several Grammy Awards. She continued her streak with a total of seven studio albums, starred in several films including “The Bodyguard” for which she created an awesome soundtrack, as well as “Waiting to Exhale” and the soundtrack to accompany it.
Her voice, her style and her crossover appeal were all things that catapulted Whitney Houston into the realm of music icon. She was a classic beauty with an amazing voice that influenced many of the pop stars you see today. Whitney was slated to appear at her mentor Clive Davis’ Grammy pre-party the night before the big music awards.
Her death has touched so many, those who knew her personally and those who enjoyed and admired her musical abilities. Jennifer Hudson gave a moving tribute performance at the Grammy Awards, while many of the artists offered their heartfelt condolences to the family.
Truth be told, Whitney will always be remembered as one of the greatest voices of our generation.
A Short Look Back
Whitney’s debut cover album. Look at that hair! Loving it!
Whitney performing at the 2009 American Music Awards in LA.
Whitney reacting to her BET Honors for Entertainment award in 2010.
As naturals, we have the luxury of versatility and creative styling with our hair. Natural hair can also be a treat in the bedroom too. There’s nothing worse than trying not to mess up your hair while having some playtime with your mate. Since February is the month of love, take a moment to consider these kinky twists, braids and buns that won’t disrupt your make-out sessions!
High Bun
Keep it simple and classy in the boudoir with a high bun or top knot. Not only is it a super chic look, it is a very friendly style for the bedroom. You hair is up and out of the way which allows easy access to your neck, ears and shoulders. Even when you’re lying down, your hair won’t be crushed and will still look sexy from any angle.
This look can also be achieved in a short amount of time which is a plus. In less than 5 minutes you can have your hair styled and be ready for action! Pull you hair up to the top of your head and secure with a pony tail holder. You can leave some bangs out in the front or pin them to the side. Don’t worry about making it neat – I’m sure your lover won’t mind if it’s a little messy!
Sexy Braid
If you want a low maintenance style for the bedroom that can hold up on a great night, a sexy side braid might be the perfect choice! A looser, messy braid can be created in a pinch, but still allow you to look effortlessly sexy. It’s fun, it’s playful, and most of all it can be quite durable. Your man may even be tempted to give it a tug when things start to get hot and heavy!
You can even choose to do a kinky twist instead of a braid. If you’re comfortable with flat twisting, add a side part and flat twist across your crown. You can either continue the flat twist into a side ponytail or simply secure with a scrunchie and you’re ready to go.
Wild & Free
No time to style you hair before getting it on? Well, one of the advantages of natural hair is the ability to go with the flow when the time is right. Having some alone time with your mate can be a breeze without having to stress about messing your hair up. Sometimes it’s okay to just go with it, let your hair be wild and free and just enjoy the moment!
Now is where having satin pillowcases will come in handy! These satiny smooth bed linens not only benefit your hair care regimen, they also make the best accessories when it comes to getting busy in the bedroom. Now those spontaneous make out sessions won’t wreck your hair as much.
Want More?
Final Thoughts
Your hair doesn’t have to hinder your love life. As a natural woman you should embrace your curls in and out of the bedroom. These playful kinky twists, braids and buns will keep the hair out of your faces and be a hit with your significant other. It helps if you have a few minutes to prep before the deed, but there is nothing wrong with improvising on a whim. Remember it doesn’t have to be perfect; your mate will probably be more than pleased no matter how you hair is done! Happy styling!
The children of Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith never cease to amaze. The Smiths have definitely raised their children to express themselves freely. They are not only super talented and stylish, but they are also super edgy, opting to drastically change their hair styles less than a week apart.
Less than a week ago Jaden Smith cut off his gorgeous curls. Now it looks like his sister Willow followed in big brother’s footsteps by shaving her head.
Jaden, 13, was most recognized by his trademark coils. In 2006, he made his first major motion picture appearance in the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness,” where he starred alongside his famous father. His gorgeous curly locks were scene stealers even at his young age. A few years later he worked alongside Jackie Chan in “The Karate Kid,” where his signature cornrows looked long and healthy. His braids not only garnered attention in the movie, but they also made it easy for him to perform his stunts. At the end of January 2012, however, Jaden decided to cut his trademark coils in favor of a close cropped cut. Now he shares a striking resemblance to his dad, especially during Will’s early rise to fame on the “Fresh Prince of Bel Air.”
Willow, 11, has always been a little fashionista, which is not too far of a stretch since her mom is the fabulous Jada Pinkett-Smith. She commanded our attention with the 2010 debut of her song “Whip My Hair”, a ladies anthem of sorts. It was around this time that she also unveiled her new daring haircut, an under cut. It definitely took over the headlines and had many wondering if it was too much for a child. Now we see that it was just the beginning, as she recently opted to completely shave her head! She is indeed a young trailblazer!
Now one thing you can’t say about the Smith kids is that they aren’t confident. They can switch it up in an instant, but still be the cool kids on the block. Having celebrity parents, who are both phenomenal entertainers, seems to allow for a certain amount of freedom when it comes to self-expression. I don’t know too many pre-teens who could get away with a buzz cut; at least I know I couldn’t. The Smith kids are entertainers too, so I guess it comes with the territory.
What do you think of her new look?
Natural hair has garnered fascination across genders and nationalities, but there always seems to be a special connection between women with natural hair and men. When it comes to crossing racial lines, white men and women who choose to wear their hair natural are usually a hot topic of conversation. Inquiring minds want to know — what’s the deal with white men and natural hair?
In the Media
Throughout movies and social media, there have been more than a few examples of the curiosity between white men and natural hair. You can go back to a movie like “Something New,” where Sanaa Lathan’s character “cut” her relaxed hair in favor of a curly, “natural” look. This change was well received by Simon Baker’s character, her eventual love interest who just so happened to be white.
Maybe even more popular is the highly acclaimed web series “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl.” The series focuses on “J,” an awkward black girl who happens to rock a seriously awesome TWA, and her budding relationship with “White J,” an equally awkward white guy who finds her beautiful.
These are just a few examples that stick out among the many. As the natural hair community continues to increase, so does the attention it receives from men of other races.
What’s the Attraction?
It takes a certain amount of confidence to rock the natural look, and I think that is the primary allure. Every guy has his own preference, whether looser waves or tight curls, braids or fades, but it’s all in how you carry yourself. Your inner beauty can be exuded through your hair, and no matter the race, it may be undeniable to the opposite sex.
For some white men, natural hair seems to take a lot of the fuss away from primping and maintenance, and allows the focus to be more on you. I think some men in general see women with natural hair as being less superficial and more genuine. From reader comments and personal experience, compliments received from white men usually express the appeal of our natural beauty. Being able to be yourself without some of the limitations of relaxed hair is simply refreshing.
Genuine Connection
In the natural hair community, there are many interracial couples represented. The multitude of white husbands and their natural wives are truly an expression of love and acceptance. CurlTalk forum member HennaRo said her white fiancé “loves (her”> hair…his fluffy pillow.”
Another CurlTaker, HJ Lutz, wrote of her experience being married to a white guy for over a decade: “He understands me completely.”
It may not seem as obvious on the surface, but it’s easy to see how genuine connections can be made when someone appreciates you for you and not your hair.
Men and Natural Hair
The male species generally falls into three categories with regards to natural hair, no matter their race. Some will not like it, and there’s nothing you can do to change their minds. Others will absolutely love it, and will go head over heels when you release your curls! However, I think the majority of men will fall into a third, broad and indifferent group – as long as you’re happy with your hair, they couldn’t be more pleased.
Want More?
Get in on the CurlTalk convo: White men love natural hair!
Final Thoughts
In my experience, men of many races can be attracted to naturally curly and kinky hair, but it is simply a reflection of the person under the hair. When you display confidence in yourself, you never know who may be picking up on it. I’ve accepted quite a few compliments from white men when my hair was curly, in braids, and even when it was straight.
Although I think it depends on the guy, many naturals who have been the recipients of compliments feel that white men may just be more liberal towards the styles they find attractive. It’s easy to appreciate a hair compliment, but it’s mighty special when it comes from the opposite sex, no matter the race.
As 2012 gets going, it’s a perfect time to put your hair plans into action! Whether you’re looking to try new styles, use those products that have been hiding in your cabinets or just be more consistent with your regimen, there’s lots of ways you can work to improve your hair this year. There’s nothing like the start of a new year to revamp any existing curly hair care goals or maybe even add a few new ones.
Styling for the New Year
Let this year be your golden opportunity to experiment with some new and chic styles. There’s a whole wide world of natural hair sites out there for you to explore and find more creative ways to wear your hair. Try some cool braid or twist styles or maybe you might change it up and try a blowout to shock your friends and family!
If one of your goals is to retain length with protective styling, try joining a grow-out challenge with some of your natural friends! One of my friends even suggested trying one new hair style every month of the year. Now that’s an easy way to rotate some fresh new looks in your current style arsenal!
Tips for 2012: If you wear your hair up, try adding a twist to your usual ‘do. Flat twists will still give you a sleek look, but can add a touch of pizzazz to any updo. Instead of doing a traditional twist or braid out, try a flexi rod set to give your hair a bouncy makeover. Wear your hair down with a bantu knot out or roller set to make your curls pop!
Products for the New Year
If you’re anything like me, you may have amassed quite a few products throughout 2011, so why not start 2012 by cleaning out your cabinets. Knowing what you have on hand will give you a good idea of any needs you need to fill in your stash. Pull out all of your hair products (yes, ALL of them!”> and go through them. Check to make sure the products are still fresh; the last thing you want in is to put old, rancid products in your hair. Starting with a clean slate can allow you to assess your needs and might just keep you from buying excessively.
Tips for 2012: Give yourself a product budget. Designate a specific dollar amount each month for your purchases and try to stick with it. Or, you can allow yourself to one new brand every month or two. No need to go overboard, especially if you’re a product junkie!
Refresh Your Regimen for the New Year
It can be hard to keep up with an complicated curly hair care regimen as the year gets into full swing, so take some time to review it and make adjustments as you find necessary. If you are trying new products, try putting yourself on a schedule of sorts to make it easier to keep up with the results. If you are newly natural, it may be a goal of yours to better learn your curls. Take some time to examine your strands, more importantly your naked hair, before applying product. This can help you determine your curl pattern, density and porosity, among other things, which just helps you develop a better understanding of your natural hair.
Tips for 2012: Sometimes simple is better and that can definitely help you maintain your regimen and goals. A great example of this is to make your own natural hair calendar! Pencil in wash days, deep conditioning treatments, styling days, and when it’s time to try a new product. You can also use your calendar to keep up with your length checks or countdown to doing your BIG CHOP!
Get Involved in the New Year
One of the things I really wanted to do this year was to be more involved with more events taking place in my city. Joining a natural hair group in your area can be one of the best ways to stay informed with what’s going on in your neck of the woods. It can also be a great way to swap ideas and products too! Making friends with other naturals can add to your support system, especially knowing they they’ve gone through the same issues as you. No one understands a curly girl like another curly!
Tips for 2012: Get involved in your local natural hair community. Check your various social media outlets and natural hair salons in your area to find other natural hair enthusiasts. This can also help you stay on top of natural hair events coming to your area. The number of natural hair expos and meet ups have been increasing tremendously and that’s also a great way to meet new people and learn about new products and styles.
Want More?
Check out our favorite curly styles from 2011!
Final Thoughts
No matter how big or small, try to keep your curly hair care goals in perspective as the year continues. You’ve got to start somewhere, so make a priority list of the things that are most important to you. For those wanting to make the transition to natural, or those just looking to embrace your curly hair, take your time and enjoy the journey. Make 2012 your best hair year ever!
I’m sure you’ve heard some of the lingo thrown around by naturals and trust me, it can get downright confusing at times! As I’ve come to learn a bit more, I realized that quite a few natural hair acronyms are length related. From TWAs (teeny weeny afros”> to BSL (bra strap length”> and beyond, there’s a serious focus on length, especially among types 3 and 4 curlies. So are you hair length obsessed? Should you even be concerned? Let’s talk it out!
Hair Growth Cycles
First, let’s just be honest, hair only grows so fast. Your hair goes through 3 cycles: anagen, catagen, and telogen. How long your hair stays in these cycles will ultimately determine not only how quickly, but the length at which your hair grows.
The first stage, anagen, is the growth phase and typically lasts anywhere from 2 to 6 years. Next is the shortest phase, catagen, which is a brief 1 to 2 week transitioning period. Last is the telogen phase, the 5 to 6 week resting period when you may notice your hair begin to shed.
Now that we’ve covered your hair cycle, let’s discuss how quickly hair actually grows. For the average person, your hair will grow about 1/2 an inch in a month or about 6 inches a year. Sounds good, right? Unfortunately, a lot of people still fall into the thought process that their hair isn’t growing. Barring a serious medical condition, your hair is indeed growing, but you may not be retaining length. This is where a good regimen, the right products and conscious styling come into play.
Realistic Expectations
Since there’s not much magic to it, the key to growing healthy hair will be length retention. Your ends are the oldest hair on your head so they must be treated with care if you want to achieve a certain hair length. I’ve spoken with so many ladies who either swear their hair isn’t growing at all or they are stuck in the perpetual “shoulder length” stage. In most cases this can primarily be contributed to hair breakage! Protecting your ends, keeping them moisturized, and keeping up with regular trims should allow you to see more of that growth.
So what would be considered setting realistic growth and length goals? Keeping in mind the average speed of growth, and accounting for small, regular trims, it’s safe to say you may see between 4 to 5 inches of growth in a year. Some will see more, others maybe not so much, but it really depends on your genetics, hormones and your own hair growth cycle. As an example, many pregnant women report increased thickness and hair growth during their pregnancy, but suffer considerable hair shedding postpartum. Hormones play a significant role in the hair growth cycles, so if you’re experiencing excessive shedding, I would recommend seeking a professional evaluation.
Long Hair vs. Healthy Hair
I’ve been part of a few conversations that touched on sacrificing length over health. Silly as it may sound, there are some people who just want to be at their target length, even if it means having scraggly hair. Most hair styles will look better when your hair is healthier. Even if you’re aiming for WL (waist length hair”> you can still get there with regular trims, so don’t neglect those ends!
Equally as important is to make sure your scalp is clean so the follicles can breathe; clogged follicles can hinder effective hair growth.
When it comes to natural hair, it’s very easy to get swept up in the hair length debate. Don’t put the emphasis so much on length; rather, make the condition and strength of your hair a priority. Especially if you’ve done the big chop, it’s pretty obvious that your hair can grow back, and pretty quickly too. Rock your TWA to the best of your ability! Embrace your curls and watch them flourish when you give them the proper love and attention.
Want More?
What’s an easy way to help retain length? Avoid cotton!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to reach a certain length, but I think a more important focus should be healthy hair. There may always be someone out there with longer hair, that’s just the way it goes. Keeping up with a regimen that includes a focus on overall healthy hair will help you attain not only long, but strong hair. That’s something anyone can appreciate! Happy styling!
Do you have a hair length obsession? What’s your length goal?
Perfect to combat the cold air, hats are also the perfect fashion accessory! Jazz up your winter wardrobe while keeping your head warm with these super chic winter hats for curly hair.
Curly Winter Hats
Floppy Hats
Floppy hats never seem never go out of style, even when the weather turns cold! These hats are perfect for curly girls since you can really let your curls hang in the cooler temperatures. You can find these hats constructed using canvas or straw for the summer months and heavy felt or wool during the cooler months.
A floppy hat usually has a bit more room in the crown to accommodate your hair so this hat shouldn’t smush your curls too much. If you want a more refined look, try pulling your hair back into a low, loose bun while letting just a few curls frame your face. This peek-a-boo look is great for last leg hair too! Floppy hats are both stylish and practical when the temperature starts dropping.
Cloche Hats
Cloche hats are a bit more unique, but timeless nonetheless. French for “bell,” these hats are designed with a bell shape and invoke a sense of vintage couture chic. You decide how you want to wear it; the cloche hat will accentuate your curls with minimal effort. You will find these hats are typically made from felt, but some modern adaptations will adorn them with sequins, lace or other embellishments.
These hats are perfect for many occasions, from running errands to a fancy party. Cloche hats allow you to wear your hair out if it’s sitting a bit higher on your head, or you can snuggle the hat down closer to your crown. Whichever your preference, these hats are guaranteed to garner attention whenever you wear it.
Knit Hats
Knit hats have always been a favorite among curly girls. You can find many styles, from the slouchy tams to the smaller beanies and berets. These warm hats are ideal for keeping your head warm this winter. You can even play with the knit; a tighter knit will keep heat in and the cool air out, while still allowing your hair to breathe. A looser knit can play on texture but still help keep your head warm.
The versatility of a knit hat is undeniable. You can wear it high on the head to let your hair loose, you can rock the slouchy look by stuffing all your hair in, you can even leave some hair out in the front or to the sides. Totally depends on how you’re feeling, but I would consider knit hats one of the must haves of a curly girl’s accessory arsenal. Add a bold color to make any outfit pop!
Other Options
Of course, these aren’t the only styles of winter hats for curly hair. Trapper Joe hats are super cute and super warm! You’ll find lots of these hats come with furry or fuzzy linings which are sure to keep you warm this winter. Pin the “ears” up when you don’t need the extra warmth for an additional styling option.
Another great style for the season is the fedora. With an ode of masculinity, the fedora instantly adds a classic, traditionally male inspired touch to any outfit. You can place the hat directly on top of your head or towards the back of your head to create two different looks. This hat also gives you the flexibility to wear your hair loose or in a curly ponytail and still look fabulous.
Final Thoughts
Wearing hats are just another way to jazzy up those cold winter nights. However, with the air being drier and lots of heaters being run, you’ll want to take some extra steps to ensure your hair doesn’t dry out with it.
You can try wrapping your hair with a satin scarf before putting your hat on so as not to cause extra friction that can lift the cuticle and cause increased dryness. Some are making knit hats for curly hair with a satin lining already sewn in and that really takes warmth and curl protection to the next level.
If wearing a satin scarf under your hat won’t work, just make sure to moisturize and seal your hair before donning your hat. Happy styling!
Arguably one of the most important aspects of having curly hair, the process of detangling can make all the difference in how you are retaining length. There are as many different ways to get those curls under control as there are types of curls, so there’s a method for everyone!
Rather than fight with your hair and cause unnecessary breakage, take a moment to assess your hair and determine the best way to approach detangling curly hair.
Frequency
The amount of time between your detangling sessions truly depends on you and your hair. Some curlies can go two to three weeks or longer between detangling sessions. Other curlies find that they need to detangle several times during the week. If you’re wearing your hair out, it might be more prone to tangles and you may want to increase your frequency.
Curly hair strands can attract lint or other materials through daily activities. Curls can also curl up on themselves, whether it’s an intact strand or a shed hair. Detangling helps to remove these two problem sources and helps to return your hair to a ready-to-style, tangle free state.
There’s no right or wrong answer here. You should be listening for your hair to let you know when it’s in need of some TLC. Here are some general detangling tips for each hair type:
- Type 2 (Wavy”>: Every few days, wash days, or as often as your hair demands.
- Type 3 (Curly”>: Weekly, wash days, or as often as your hair demands.
- Type 4 (Kinky”>: Every other week, wash days, or as often as your hair demands.
Wet vs. Damp vs. Dry
There are so many ways you can approach detangling curly hair. Depending on who you talk to, some naturals swear by wet detangling, while others can’t get the job done if their hair is wet.
Again, like frequency, the technique you use to get through your curls should be based on you and your hair. If one method doesn’t work for you, just try the next one.
Wet detangling calls for your hair to be completely saturated with water and/or your favorite conditioner product. Damp detangling just requires a small amount of moisture being introduced to your hair. Dry detangling is best done by adding oils to dry hair. No matter which way you decide, keep track of how it turns out so adjustments can be made if you decide to go that same route again in the future.
- Wet: This approach to detangling your hair works well with all hair types and textures. Using a good conditioner with lots of slip and the power of the water stream helps knots to be easily worked out.
- Damp: Lightly spritzing the hair with water acts to soften the hair and aid in the detangling process. Follow that spritzing with your favorite buttery moisturizer or a leave-in conditioner for extra slip.
- Dry: This method works great if you’ve worn your hair loose for longer periods of time. Saturating your hair with oil makes knots seem to melt away, just remember to work in small sections.
Technique & Tools
Another major topic always up for discussion when it comes to detangling is what tools are the best to use. As with the methods mentioned above, it really depends on you and your hair. There are all kinds of detangling combs and brushes on the market for curlies. Shower combs, Denman brushes, the Tangle Teezer, the Ouidad Double Detangler…all of these are tools that people have used to tackle their knots, but you still have to be cautious when using anything to detangle your hair. Take note of how the tool actually works through the tangle, making sure it’s not breaking the hair, eating up the ends or pulling the hair from the root.
You also have some of the best instruments for detangling your hair in your 10 fingers, so don’t forget to use those too! Finger detangling may take a bit more time if you have a lot of hair, but if you’re trying to avoid watching your hair go down the drain, you may want to opt for this method.
Shedding vs. Breakage
The more you section off, the better your detangling outcome will be.The last stage of the hair growth cycle, telogen, is when your hair “sheds” and you’ll lose an average of 50-100 hairs a day. This is normal and shouldn’t cause concern, unless you’re noticing an abnormal amount of hair coming out.
Breakage on the other hand can be caused by over manipulation, mechanical damage from tools, lack of moisture, etc. In the event that you’re noticing excessive breakage and you’re using a tool to detangle, try giving it a rest for a little while and opt for finger detangling instead.
Getting a good trim will give you a clean slate and you can track how your hair progresses without using any tools.
Best Practices
No matter how often you detangle, whether you do it wet or dry, or which tools you choose to use, there are a few best practices as it pertains to detangling.
DO find a method that works for you. You’re not stuck to just one method. Sometimes you may want to mix and match as I often do! Try dry detangling first to get any big tangles, then add conditioner and continue the process to get the remaining knots and shed hair.
DO take your time and be thorough. The last thing you want to do is “think” you’ve detangled sufficiently only to find a nice piece of matted hair buried amidst your curls.
DO section your hair prior to detangling, and use as many sections as you need. This may be of more importance as your hair grows, but the longer your hair is, the easier it is to knot. Handling your hair in smaller sections (4-8 or more”> makes it easier to manage and to keep the hair tangle free once it’s been detangled.
Want More?
Looking to detangle your kid’s hair? Yea, we know it can be tricky, but we’ve got the know how!
Final Thoughts
Don’t let detangling curly hair be the bane of your existence! Sure it may take some time, but once you get the hang of it, you can cut your detangling time down in no time.
Take the time to learn what works best for your hair, develop your own techniques, and pamper your tresses! Happy styling, curlies!
It seems that curly hair is a topic coming up more and more frequently in many different forums. With natural hair becoming more mainstream, there’s a good chance that you encounter other curlies on your normal daily activities. So as curlies, we started wondering about when the topic of hair comes up during interactions with people, who do we typically receive more compliments from? Well, let’s see…
Men
I think a majority of guys can appreciate a lady wearing her naturally curly hair, even though they are not as vocal. In fact, I have experienced that men usually give great feedback on curly hairstyles. Not too many guys understand what it really means to be a natural woman, but most appreciate a woman embracing what God gave them.
After perusing YouTube, I found several men giving their opinions on the natural hair movement, but none more well versed and knowledgeable than Drew on his channel sjsafety18. His popular video “Natural Hair: Yo Boyfriend Don’t Like It?” has garnered much praise for breaking down, from a male’s perspective, what men appreciate about women who wear their natural hair.
You may not get compliments from every guy that you encounter, but trust me, most are quite observant and they do notice!
Women
When it comes to dishing out the curly hair compliments, women are by far quicker to share the praise. I don’t think this comes as a surprise to most ladies since as maintaining and styling hair is one thing that we all have in common.
With women, there tends to be a lot more “the grass is greener on the other side” ideology, so straight haired women tend to be quite intrigued with our natural curls. In fact, some of those ladies that share the most compliments may be closet curlies themselves, only hiding behind their blow dryers and flat iron! Most ladies aren’t afraid to follow those compliments with questions about styling, either.
As curly girls we should keep open minds when receiving compliments from non-curly girls. I’ve experienced, as I’m sure many of you have, criticisms wrapped in compliments, and it’s okay! Non-curly women may not get the natural hair lifestyle, but taking the time to explain or educate those who may have questions is a great way to open a dialogue. Who knows, you may be talking to a future transitioner!
Other Naturals
It has been my experience that other naturals give the best compliments! There’s that common bond between naturals and it usually doesn’t even require a bunch of words. Other curly girls know, for the most part, the amount of time and effort that probably went into creating your curly style and they don’t have a problem giving compliments when they see great hair. I definitely love to spread the respect around to other curlies who are rocking their looks. There’s no such thing as too many compliments in the natural hair community!
Most recently while attending the Nzuri Natural Hair Health & Beauty Show in Houston, I was met at every turn with gorgeous hair in all shapes and styles. Even with receiving lots of compliments from other naturals, there can also be some disdain within the community as well.
What I hear a lot of time from other naturals is the “I can’t wear my hair like that!” complaint which shouldn’t even be an issue. We all have our own hair, but there’s nothing wrong with showing appreciation to a cool style!
Want More?
Hear one NaturallyCurly’s co-founders talk about her curlstory and how she found the confidence to go and stay curly through compliments and praise!
Final Thoughts
Natural hair can be a great conversation starter and a great way to share a bit of knowledge with those who find curly hair fascinating. Compliments can come in many forms and from many people. It’s always great to hear something nice from others, whether men, women or other naturals. So don’t be afraid to reach out to your nearest curly and share a few kind words — you just may get a few back too!
Who do you receive more compliments from: men, non-curly haired women or natural women?
Connecting with other naturals today is as easy as signing on to your computer or powering up your cell phone. Social media plays a big role within the natural hair community. Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Meetup.com, Livestream, blogs — the options to unite are widespread. So come on girl, connecting with other naturals is just one click away!
With over 800 million users worldwide, Facebook has become the most popular social network and is an integral part of life for many people. The sheer number of people it connects on a daily basis is a great tool for the natural hair community.
Many bloggers, vloggers, stylists and natural hair professionals utilize Facebook to supplement their websites and channels. Many curlies turn to the Facebook community for inspiration, motivation and to give or seek advice. Not only does it allow you to stay informed about the latest and greatest products or techniques, upcoming natural hair expos and other social events, you can also stay in touch with people that you meet at these functions.
I think building that network and connecting with people is probably the greatest thing about Facebook and the natural hair community.
Merely 140 characters may not seem like much, but if you’re on Twitter you creatively find ways to get your point across. This method of social networking has been growing steadily, and offers the natural hair community another way to communicate.
I always wondered what was up with those hashtags (#”> before getting hooked on Twitter, but it’s just one of the ways to identify and align yourself with a certain group or interest. These hashtag word(s”> allows people to search for others who share similar ideas.
The most popular searchable terms on Twitter are #TeamNatural, #NaturalHair, #CurlyHair, and #Locs. These all are easy ways to identify and connect people within the natural hair community, whether it’s promoting an upcoming event, giving the scoop on a new product or posting pictures of a new hair style.
YouTube
Gaining even more popularity today, YouTube has become one of the best media tools for the natural hair community. Where else can you actually SEE a hairstyle being created, how a product works on a similar hair type, and watch others embark on their natural hair journey?
There is something to be said for the kind of bond that is created between the vlogger and the viewer. They are essentially letting you in on their life. I think the appeal of YouTube is that the vloggers are regular people like you and me, most aren’t paid or sponsored by anyone, and they are just giving you their opinions — whether you choose to follow them is at your discretion.
I love to find people with similar hair textures as my own and see how they style their hair and what products work for them. Although I often use YouTube as a guide, I still take the time to research any new products or ingredients I may want to try.
Some of my favorite vloggers to follow for their cool personalities, honest approach and fabulously gorgeous hair are BeautifulBrwnBabyDol, Richeau, DenimPixie, KinkyKurlyQueen, and Naptural85.
Blogs/Websites
There’s always a wealth of great information to be found on the blog scene. With highly visible bloggers like Curly Nikki and Afrobella leading the pack, it really gives people a chance to get great information in one spot and also ask questions in an open forum.
Along with blogs, websites like NaturallyCurly.com also offer naturals an effective way to educate, communicate and celebrate their curls. Many of these natural hair blogs and websites also bring in experts in the hair care field so you can get scientific and professional guidance while you’re on your journey.
Live Chats
The next best thing to an actual meet-up, live chats offer visual interaction between naturals. Unlike YouTube where you are simply watching a vlogger give a review or tutorial, live chats actually allow you to be interactive with the host. Being able to ask questions and have those questions answered directly is beneficial not only to the person asking, but to those who are tuning in as well.
The Natural Resources Salon in Houston, Texas has embarked on a new Livestream series that focuses on various natural hair topics and also gives great at home, do-it-yourself style tutorials. BeautifulBrwnBabyDol of YouTube has also gotten into the live chat forum via Vokle, offering natural hair tips and advice, as well as addressing other health and social issues.
The Importance of Social Media
Many companies are recognizing the power of social media outlets such as YouTube and Facebook as methods to reach out to their target market. By providing video demonstrations, detailed product information and genuine customer feedback, companies are able to fine tune existing products and develop even better ones to meet the needs of us, the consumer.
Want More?
Follow NaturallyCurly on Facebook and Twitter and get all your natural hair updates, ASAP!
Final Thoughts
Social media is paramount to linking curlies across the globe. Being able to share a picture of an awesome hair style may give someone in another city, state or even another country the courage to try a new style. The natural hair community is a close knit one and using various avenues of social media only helps to make the community even more accessible.
We all know the natural hair journey isn’t necessarily the easiest, but it’s a path worth traveling. Everyone has to take the time to learn their own hair, but it doesn’t mean you can’t get a little heads up first. Understanding a few natural hair care mistakes and learning how to avoid them will save you time, stress and your hair!
1. Hand-in-Head Syndrome
You’re finally natural, congratulations! “Hand-in-Head” syndrome is one big mistake that’s so easy to make, and half the time you don’t even realize it! It’s such a good feeling to know what your natural hair actually feels like, but you want to exercise some restraint. Although you may want to play in your hair, keeping your styling simple will leave you with happier, healthier hair.
Tips to appreciate your natural hair, rather than touching it!
- Low manipulation styles help with healthy hair.
- Avoid too tight styles, especially around the hairline.
- Use the proper tools when styling.
2. Keeping Up With the Joneses
I think at some point in life we’ve all experienced the urge to compare ourselves with someone else and maybe even compete with them. Let me tell you, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side! This especially pertains to natural hair. It’s so easy to want what someone else has, to compare or even covet another person’s length or texture, or take someone’s word as the end all be all. We all have our moments, but learning to love your own hair will allow you to appreciate other curlies without getting caught up in the “their hair is better than my hair” complex.
Natural hair care tips for YOUR hair:
- Be healthy hair focused, not length obsessed.
- Learn the beauty in your own curls.
- Don’t let someone else dictate what you do or don’t do with your hair.
3. Playing it Safe
Going natural gives you a certain amount of freedom with your hair, and often times a new style too. It’s important to remember that no one else has hair like yours, so don’t be afraid to try new styles and products. You never know how you will look with a curly hairstyle if you don’t try it, and you’ll never know how a certain curly hair product will work with your locks if you don’t give it a shot. Don’t be shy with your hair, be confident!
Tips to help you experiment with your own hair.
- Try a couple new products at a time. No, you don’t have to be a product junkie!
- Give your products an opportunity to work (2-3 weeks usage, at least”>.
- Look to social media for new style ideas & tutorials.
4. Kick the Habit
We all have bad habits — dealing with your natural hair is no different. This is not to say these habits are absolutely terrible and should never be done; it’s just a note to be more aware. Most of the time you may not even realize it, but the potential to cause unwanted damage can be increased. Fight the urge and your hair will appreciate you for it!
Natural hair care tips to avoid bad styling habits:
- Keep your detangling sessions short and simple.
- Don’t skip out on the deep conditioning (once or twice a week!”>.
- Avoid keeping styles in for too long.
- Put the heat on hold!
5. Don’t Believe the Hype
As more and more people come to be aware of what they put in their bodies, naturally that can transition to what you put on your hair as well. Back in the day when our mothers and grandmothers did our hair, they didn’t have nearly a fraction of the products available on the market geared towards “natural hair”. What goes on your hair and scalp is important, but sometimes this can be exploited by companies trying to make a profit at your expense. Everything that glitters isn’t gold!
Tips to be an informed consumer:
- Do your own research!
- If you have a concern, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Be aware of ingredients, but don’t trash products that have worked for you.
Want More?
Still transitioning? We can help! Here are our top 10 tips for transitioning to natural hair!
Final Thoughts
Natural hair is not a fad! I repeat, natural hair is NOT a fad! We all with have trials and tribulations when it comes to dealing with our hair, but don’t let that discourage you. Be secure in yourself and confident in your hair. Yes, we all will make mistakes but they should be an opportunity to expand learning and grow along this journey. In fact, share your bloopers with other naturals and you’ll really get a good laugh!
Miss Jessie’s, primary sponsor of the Nzuri Expo in Houston, stand.The Houston natural hair scene finished 2011 with a bang — a big Nzuri bang! On December 10 & 11, the Reliant Center was transformed into a full blown production of the most impressive kind. From the fashion shows to pageants, live action styling to hands-on tutorials, expert led workshops to in-depth panels, the Nzuri Natural Hair, Health and Beauty Expo was more than just a hair show. The atmosphere was one of a family reunion, like a community of kindred spirits with common bonds. Nzuri was far more than a natural hair event; it was a show stopping event of the highest caliber.
Icons in the Hair Care Industry
There was no better way to kick off a fun-filled weekend than with a pre-party to get everyone pumped for the spectacular affair coming to Houston.
The Just “Froing Off” Pre-Event Gala was hosted by the Curls brand and offered great ambiance, yummy food and good company. This was a perfect opportunity to meet & mingle with some of the elite guests before the Nzuri expo.
Aevin Dugas, world’s largest afro.Miss Jessie’s did a phenomenal job as the primary sponsor of the Nzuri Expo. Taking their place front and center, the Miss Jessie’s booth set the tone for what was to come. The DJ was spinning great music and the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement the entire time. Patrons were greeted with swag bags filled with yummy samples and promotional items from Miss Jessie’s as well as other vendors.
I think many were not even expecting the two gorgeous faces of Miss Jessie’s founders, Titi and Miko, interacting with the crowd, but it was certainly a pleasant surprise to me! The ladies so graciously held not one, but two stage presentations discussing everything from natural hair styling tips to how the Miss Jessie’s line originated. They even took the time to pose for pictures with attendees! It felt like a very personal experience even though there were well over 8,000 people in attendance.
It’s a Family Affair
Little Miss Happy Head Pageant participant.Nzuri brought out a wide variety of people to the Reliant Center. Of course there were beautiful natural curls, braids and locs everywhere you turned, but there were also plenty of natural supporters in the building too. The natural hair event was not just geared towards naturalistas, but brought entire families together. Significant others were there offering support to one another, children were there in high numbers enjoying the festivities, and even boyfriends tagged along with their natural girlfriends to see what all the fuss was about!
There were many options for everyone to be a participant in the activities offered at the Nzuri Expo. Macy’s sponsored not one but two fashions shows on the main stage that really got the crowd moving. Talk about a great combination of fabulous fashion and fabulous hair!
We were also treated to an extra special presentation of the littlest natural girls and boys. The Little Miss Happy Head and the Little Mr. Handsome Man Pageants truly stole the show. It was heartwarming to see the spirit, enthusiasm and pride in these young naturals!
Knowledge is Power
Celebrity stylist, Felicia Leatherwood.Even amidst all the entertainment, there was still no shortage of pertinent information during this exciting natural hair event. The coordinators for the Nzuri Expo made sure to feed your mind as well. They brought in the powerhouse brands of Miss Jessie’s and Jane Carter, Felicia Leatherwood (celebrity stylist of Jill Scott”>, Isis Brantley (celebrity stylist of Erykah Badu”>, and featured salons like The Damn Salon out of Atlanta and Houston Based salon Zayd’s Naturally Natural. These professionals shared a wealth of styling tips and tricks and offered inspiration for new styles too!
Patrons were able participate in various hair, health and beauty workshops ranging from traction alopecia to the eco chic beauty revolution. I particularly enjoyed the “I Can’t Workout Because of My Hair!” workshop led by Sporty Afros founders Whitney Patterson and Alexandria Williams. The topic was quite engaging as most women face this very issue when deciding to go natural. Being fit and being natural can go hand in hand!
I also had the distinct honor of being a participant on the Blogger Speak panel with Ms. BeautifulBrwnBabyDol and a host of other super cool bloggers. The Bloggersphere offered a chance for bloggers and readers to connect on a more personal level. As Cassidy of NaturalSelectionBlog.com so eloquently described, “it brings the online offline.”
Shopping Galore!
Cassidy getting “damned.”I shouldn’t even tell you how good the vendors were at this year’s expo, it might just make you jealous! From t-shirts to hot shorts, hair ties to scarves, purses to products…pretty much anything you can think of was for sale and at great prices! I picked up some great “Good Hair” earrings from ChariT’s Inspirational Creations and a cute “Curly Girl” tee from The Urban Rose. This event was the perfect opportunity for shoppers to pick up some unique, handcrafted pieces, no matter if you were shopping for Christmas gifts or just shopping for the heck of it.
Product junkies shopped til their hearts were content at Nzuri. Jane Carter of Jane Carter Solution was there in person giving product demonstrations and recommendations. She even worked some magic in my hair! I got to meet Pam Jenkins of Koils by Nature and pick up some wonderfully scented Sweet Almond Joy hair and body butter. Both Zayd’s Naturally Natural salon and The Damn Salon launched their new product lines at the Nzuri expo. There were products for everyone and I can’t wait to try them all!
Want More?
Follow the Curl Current to see what is up and coming for natural hair events in your city!
Bigger & Better for 2012
The natural hair community in Houston and beyond was well represented over the duration of the event. People came from far and wide to experience the southern hospitality offered by the great state of Texas. Nzuri welcomed people from Atlanta, New York, California and even the UK during the Expo. After the initial tallies came in, it is estimated that well over 8,000 people attended the Nzuri Natural Hair, Health and Beauty Expo. That is a spectacular turnout and is indicative of the amount of time and effort that went into planning such an impressive natural hair event. You don’t want to miss out on all the fun next year; it can only be bigger and better for 2012!
Jill Scott graced the stage Monday, December 19, during the VH1’s Divas Celebrate Soul show with flawless performances and a stunning new hairstyle.
This year, “Divas” brought recognition to some of the top soul cities in the world and highlighted their influences on the music industry. Jill, a Philadelphia native, captivated the crowd with her stunning ballad, “Hear My Call,” where she controlled the stage with ethereal grace and elegance. The soulful songstress performed several times during the evening, but it was her natural style and flair that stole the show.
A hot new style trend was revealed during the “Divas” showcase. Never afraid of changing up her style, Jill Scott combined classic and chic into one of the most unique styles of the evening. She flaunted shaved sides with two strand twists rolled up into a bold updo.
I say this was a fabulous style, and she pulled it off wonderfully! Confidence radiated on her face and through all of her powerful performances. This signature style is sure to generate a buzz throughout the natural hair community.
If you aren’t afraid to brave the clippers, this style will definitely set you apart in the crowd! You can add extensions to the middle section to create the volume that Jill has achieved.
For those who don’t want to drastically cut their hair, you don’t have to be left out of style. You can recreate this look with flat twists on the sides going towards the back, then flat twist the back up towards the crown. Tuck, roll, and pin the hair in place on top of your head. If you’re rocking a twist out, you can even leave the top loose, creating a textured, structured up-do.
Want More?
This style totally reminds us of Cassidy’s new “damned” ‘do! Check it out!
Final Thoughts
Thank you Jill Scott for giving us impeccable style inspiration! Happy styling!
