Search Results: NaturallyCurly

Nicole’s Curly Makeover

NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Penny Gabrielsen: My name is Penny Gabrielsen. I am a wife, a mother of two high school boys and a full-time music teacher.

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls, or have you always enjoyed and embraced your curls?

PG: I didn’t embrace my curls until after college. My poor sweet mother spent hours trying to detangle my hair, breaking several combs in the process. Sometimes she would put it all back with a giant bow, because I would never brush it. There were many tears. I spent my middle school years coveting friends’ straight hair and perfectly feathered bangs. They looked so cool gliding around the roller skating rink in their Jordache jeans, big pocket combs and glossy lips. My curly locks simply wouldn’t cooperate with that style.

My hair was a bit more likable in the 80s when big hair was the trend. I would blow it dry and then use hot rollers on my “shaggy” layers. I was actually fortunate to have curl because it gave my fine limp hair much needed body and fullness. In college, I was more comfortable with letting it go natural. It certainly gave me more time to spend on my studies and work-related activities.

NC: What is your current routine?

PG: Currently, the hair diffuser and I are best friends!  I just scrunch, spritz with hair spray and go. This takes only about four minutes, so I get to spend more time with my athletic boys. And because it is natural, I don’t really worry about being out in the wind or humidity.

MORE: Real Texture Talk: Ashley Jackson

NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?

PG: My hair is ultra-fine, so layers look best. I am sporting a shoulder-length bob at the moment.

NC: What about your hair stylists?

PG: My stylist is great. She understands that my hair will shrink quite a bit. It seems to spring to life after some of the weight is removed, and she knows the perfect length for my bangs.

NC: Does having curly hair affect your everyday life?

PG: People with curly hair are sometimes labeled “cute.” I felt I had to work hard to be taken seriously by my friends and family. I have to admit that, every now and then, I will blow it dry for smoothness, especially on a date night with my husband (although he loves it curly”>. When I do straighten it, my favorite product is Joico smoothing balm. It has an incredible fragrance and tiny gold specs that sparkle in the sunlight.

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

PG: I am grateful for my curls. I remember lots of friends who paid a great deal of money for a perm, but my wash-and-go hair is easy to care for and manage.

MORE: 7 Curly Hair Tips for Cooler Weather

NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Ashley Jackson: My name is Ashley Jackson and I’m from Plano, TX. I’m 21 years old, and I drive 18-wheelers across the country for a living.

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls, or have you always enjoyed and embraced your curls?

AJ: I was born with straight hair. My hair didn’t start turning curly until I was about two years old. Growing up I HATED my hair! It was so different from everyone else’s and I didn’t know what products to use . I finally started to embrace my curls when I was a junior in high school. I was introduced to the Pantene Curly line of products, and they did wonders for my hair!

NC: What is your current routine/regimen?

AJ: I wash and condition my hair daily. Once I’m out of the shower, I towel dry my hair and apply six dollop-sized amounts of mouse throughout my hair. Then I wrap individual sections of my hair around my fingers to form and define my curls. If I don’t do this, my curls will be fuller and have more volume. Finally, I let my hair continue to air dry.

NC: What about your hair stylists?

AJ: I do not get my hair cut often, but when I do, I have my friend Keke McEntyre, who is a professional hair stylist and makeup artist, do my hair. I’ve known her for many years now, and she does amazing work for weddings and special events.

MORE: Real Texture Talk: Alisa Kress

NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?

AJ: One of my favorite styles to wear is a half up, half down side ponytail. I make it look like it is all coming from the ponytail, and it gives the illusion of extremely long hair. Another favorite of mine is a simple bun because it requires very little effort.

NC: What are your must-have products and tools?

AJ: I must always have Pantene Pro-V Curly Hair Series Moisture Renewal Shampoo, Moisture Renewal Conditioner and Curl Defining Mousse-Maximum Hold 4. I always detangle my hair with a brush. I never use a comb because it takes a lot longer. NC: What was your most drastic haircut?  AJ: When I was in the fourth grade, I had really long hair down to my butt. I did not comb it for a whole week! This caused it to matt up, so I was forced to get it chopped off to my shoulders.

MORE: Top 10 Curl-Defining Products

NC: What is the best thing about being curly?

AJ: The best thing about being curly is that not many people have curly hair like mine. It is a blessing from God that makes me unique.

NC: Does having curly hair affect your everyday life?

AJ: When I played basketball in school, someone’s hand would always get stuck in my hair, or someone would always pull it. Also, I must always have product in my hair for it to look presentable.

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

AJ: Experiment with different products to find what is right for your hair. Not all products work the same for all curlies. It took me years to find the right product.

NC: Tell us more about your current and upcoming projects!

AJ: I’m still a trucker and I travel across the United States daily. In my spare time, I love to cook and bake. I also love training animals to do tricks and perform for people.

MORE: Curly Hair Growth Chart

Are you frustrated about how slow your hair is growing, or want it to grow faster? We’ve put together this handy little hair growth infographic to help you figure out what’s normal as well as tips for helping your hair grow.

Share this infographic by embedding it on your website:

NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Alisa Kress: My name is Alisa Kress. I am a wife, mother, professional fitness competitor, fitness model, the owner and creator of Snuggle Me’z and a curl lover.

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls, or have you always enjoyed and embraced your curls?

AK: I didn’t always embrace my curls the way I do now. I struggled during my youth and through my college days with my curls and constantly tried to straighten them a few times. That didn’t work out so well for me, so from that point on I embraced my curls and set them free!

NC: What is your current routine/regimen?

AK: I wash with the new Paul Mitchell Curls Spring Loaded Detangling Shampoo and condition with Paul Mitchell Forever Blonde Conditioner. I always comb my hair out while it’s conditioning in the shower. Once I’m out I apply Paul Mitchell Curls Full Circle Leave-In Treatment to help with any frizz. I separate my hair in about 5 sections and add Twirl Around Crunch-Free Curl Definer to make sure my curls get proper definition. Once, I’ve added this I will spray with the Texturing Sea Spray, air dry and go… so easy! Once a week I will deep condition with the Awapuhi Wild Ginger Keratin Intensive Treatment to nourish my thirsty curls.

NC: What about your hair stylists?

AK: My stylist ROCKS. She specializes in curly hair, so she knows what works best for curly hair. She is AMAZING. If you are ever in Northern California stop by and see her: Jen Nordan at the Gallery Salon. Believe me, after she cuts your hair, no one else will compare.

NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?

AK: There are so many ways to wear my hair curly. I can leave it down and natural, which seems to be my four-year-olds’ favorite way. I will put part of it up so it’s out of my face if I am going to be moving around a lot. My favorite up style is to wear it in a high side knot with some pieces falling out.

MORE: Real Texture Talk: Alex Portelli

NC: What are your must-have products and tools?

AK: My must-have products are a wide tooth comb in the shower — that’s the only time I comb my hair. Paul Mitchell Twirl Around and the Super Skinny Serum help make my hair shiny and frizz free.

NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go naturally curly?

AK: I honestly get stopped at least once a day and asked about my hair, the products I use, the name of my stylist and if my hair is natural. This is a huge complement! NC: Did you every have any curly girl insecurities? AK: I did try “bangs” but they never worked with my curls. Of course I had curly girl insecurities at points in my life. When everyone had straight, flat hair in the 90s, I wanted it too! I wanted to look like the women in magazines. But it didn’t take me too long to realize I loved my curls and they set me apart from everyone else. I wouldn’t change a thing!

NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?

AK: Not a thing — I just let them go. I do try to lay my hair over my pillow so only my “under curls” touch pillow, but who knows how long they actually stay there.

MORE: 5 Scalp Care Tips for Seborrheic Dermatitis

NC: What is the best thing about being curly? How has having curly hair impacted your life?

AK: I love how different and fun curls are, and they are so easy to control thanks to Paul Mitchell Curls line. My curls stay intact, are absolutely beautiful and constantly frizz free.

NC: Does having curly hair affect your everyday life?

AK: I think my curls are my defining feature.  It’s how people describe me and I am perfectly happy with that.

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

AK: Find the products that work for your hair. Keep trying different lines and combinations. Once you find what works best for you, embrace your curls and set them free.

NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects. Tell us about your life and what you are up to!

AK: First of all, I am a mother. That is the most important job I could ever have! Second to that I am a fitness trainer, fitness model, professional fitness competitor, and the creator of an infant line of car seat covers called Snuggle Me’z. I am also training to to run in my second half marathon, the Nike Woman’s Marathon, in the middle of October. MORE: Yoga Class Focuses on Curly Hair and Body Image

Breast Cancer Awareness campaigns have begun in stores nation-wide, making it a great time to shop and support an important fundraising cause at the same time. In order to assist in finding more ways to help women and research more cures for breast cancer, friends and families can also take part in a number of events, promotions and activities throughout the month.

ULTA Beauty’s “Donate with a Kiss” campaign offers a variety of discounts and special offers to help raise funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF”>.

MORE: Exercise for Breast Cancer Awareness

 ULTA’s “Donate with a Kiss” Program

• With a $1 donation to BCRF at ULTA Beauty stores consumers can register to win a beauty bag of “pink” products valued at almost $600!… one winner per store will be chosen by random drawing.  A kiss decal will be given for each $1 donation and can be posted in the store windows or taken home.
• With a $5 donation to BCRF consumers receive an ULTA Pink Limited-Edition Travel Tumbler and 5 kiss decals.
• With a $10 donation to BCRF consumers receive a Pink Kiss Umbrella and 10 kiss decals.

There are also a number of limited edition and exclusive products available to customers during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some of these include:

• Philosophy is offering ULTA Beauty’s #1 selling moisturizer in special pink packaging! Philosophy’s “Hope in a Jar Limited Edition in Pink” is the award-winning, lightweight daily moisturizer that hydrates and provides antioxidant protection, while improving skin texture and tone, leaving it smooth and radiant. Exclusive to ULTA Beauty stores and available online at ULTA.com for $38, Philosophy will donate $5.00 from the sale of this product to BCRF.
• Stila is offering the “Courage & Beauty” palette exclusively at ULTA Beauty stores for $16, with $1 from each sale donated to BCRF.  The palette includes a collection of 5 eye shadows, a Convertible Color Lip and Cheek Cream, a mirror and a face chart.
• Smashbox is offering the popular “Be Legendary” lipstick in a limited-edition shade in honor of BCRF founder Mrs. Evelyn Lauder, called “Inspiration.”  The lipstick is being sold exclusively at ULTA Beauty stores and online at ULTA.com for $19. $5 from each sale will be donated to BCRF.
• Salon “Cut-A-Thon”: On Sunday, Oct  14th, 2012, customers can also participate in the ULTA Beauty Salon “Cut-A-Thon” from 11 am-6pm. For a minimum, suggested donation of $10, supporters receive a cut, shampoo and style by ULTA Beauty’s professionally trained stylists. One hundred percent of the Cut-A-Thon proceeds will be donated to BCRF.  In 2011, ULTA Beauty performed more than 19,000 haircuts during the Cut-A-Thon, a number it aims to reach again.

For more details about the events and special offers visit www.ulta.com/donatewithakiss.

MORE: Keeping Curls Pretty While You Sweat for the Cause

Fall is here! In just a few weeks, trees will be painted with color, apple and pumpkin fields will be filled with children and families and bulky sweaters will find their way back into our closets.

Our curls may also enjoy the cooler temperatures and less humid conditions. They may also find themselves going through a “fall transition.” As we experiment and find a new look or color for the autumn season, we also have an opportunity to try out some new fall hair accessories. Luckily, this season, the patterns and colors are terrific and truly“back to nature.”

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Fall Hair Accessories

The cooler temperatures are upon us and fall is now official.  Although we may see a few weeks of unique weather patterns as autumn settles in, our skin, bodies and hair will see some changes too.

The effects of cooler weather and less humidity are usually welcomed by curls, but they too may take some time to transition into a new pattern. In this case, it’s best to keep some products from your summer routine in your closet while introducing some new fall hair products for the changes coming about.

Try these tips for transitioning your products into fall and see how they work on your hair as the season progresses, then change into a new “normal” routine once you see your hair adapting to the changes.

1. Clean your hair up with a good cut or trim. Ask your stylist for suggestions if you need help with color or a style for the fall.
2. Use a deep conditioner treatment once a week or twice for thicker curls (3b/c and 4 types“>. Use as directed. You can also do an olive oil mask by simply leaving warmed olive oil in your hair for 40 mins with a shower cap or plastic baggy on then thoroughly washing it out.
3. Leave some leave in conditioner on your ends when you’re out of the shower or add a leave in to all of your hair and concentrate a little more on the ends. Some good leave ins for the fall can be found in sprays, as you may want to stop using heavier/creamier leave ins from your summer routine. Curlier and more coily textures may want to do the opposite and use a little heavier leave in to retain moisture.
4. Add your favorite gel or styling product in moderation. Try a little less than you would normally use since there may be less humidity in the air and less need for using heavier products or more products.
5. Experiment with new products for the fall or something you used last fall, to see that it still works on your curls. Yes, there are times when “it used to” work and a year later, it may not.

Have patience. Transitions are a period where patience is well tested. See what works for you and what doesn’t. Some of the transition can be a period of trial and error, but within just a few short weeks you’ll have a routine that works for you and your curls!

Do you have a process you use to transition your curls from season to season?

NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Alex Portelli: My name is Alex and I am currently a junior at Boston College studying chemistry. I am from a town about an hour and a half from NYC. I also enjoy running and baking in my free time.

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls or have you always enjoyed and embraced your curls?

AP: I started embracing my curls in high school. When I was a kid I just had wavy hair, but as I got older, my waves turned to Botticelli curls! In middle school, I used to straighten my hair every day and pull it back in a ponytail. But towards the end of middle school, my mom strongly encouraged that I begin to experiment with different products and styles. By high school, I had learned how to tame my curls and embrace them!

NC: What is your current routine/regimen?

AP: When I condition my hair in the shower, I also run my fingers through it to break up the knots. I let the conditioner sit for about five minutes. Then I rinse it out and apply it a second time, but in a very small amount. My hair feels silky. When I get out of the shower, I apply the gel when my hair is still soaking wet, scrunching the product into my curls. Finally, I use a  microfiber towel to remove the excess water!

NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?

AP: I don’t blow dry my hair, so I either shower a couple hours before I go to sleep or when I wake up in the morning. Blow drying my hair makes it frizzy and going to sleep with my hair too wet makes the curls uneven — I could wake up with one side curlier than the other!

Read More: Real Texture Talk: Deborah Williams

NC: What about your hair stylists?

AP: I am very careful about who I let cut my hair. I get the Deva Cut, which is a special curly hair cut where the stylist cuts your hair dry and curl by curl, to shape it in its natural state. I found the Deva Cut after a miserable hair cut when I was 14. A woman cut my hair wet and layered it too much. Needless to say, it looked like there was a fair chunk of my hair missing in the back of my head when the curls dried and settled. It took a couple of years to fully grow back. When I’m in New York, I go to Martha Ellen in Brooklyn and am currently looking for a new stylist in the Boston area.

NC: What are your must-have products and tools?

AP: Devachan products have changed my life. I have not yet found another brand that can tame my curls. I use DevaCurl One Condition and DevaCurl DevaCare Arc AnGEL. Different curls may use a different combination of products. I shampoo my hair once a week and I haven’t found that the shampoo brand matters. Once I’m out of the shower, I apply the DevaCare gel and use a microfiber towel to scrunch the curls and remove excess water from my hair.

NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?  AP: People didn’t realize how curly my hair really was because I always had it pulled back and straightened. My hair was different so I think most people found it really pretty. I had always been shy and quiet, but my curls made me stand out more. NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?

AP: I sleep on a silk pillowcase; it reduces the frizz in the morning. Sometimes I will very loosely pull my hair on the top of my head to prevent the top from getting flat.

Read More: How to Dry Low and High Porosity Hair

NC: What is the best thing about being curly?

AP: I think being able to embrace curls shows a sense of self-confidence. I always love when I see girls showing off their curls, when the norm today is to have straight hair. I like how having curls makes you different.

NC: Does having curly hair affect your everyday life?

AP: My curls make it easier for people remember or recognize me. Not many girls have hair like I do. Just today I had someone call out my name from across a parking lot and I had no idea who they were, but they recognized me from my curls. Having curls makes me stand out without having to try, which has both perks and downsides. My curly hair also helps to identify me. My freshman year, my roommate and I had the same first name, so our floor began referring to me as curly-haired Alex to differentiate us.

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

AP: So many girls comment to me how they would love to have pretty curls. I think no matter the extent of your curls, anyone can embrace their beauty with the right products and attitude. I love having curls and find that sometimes, they are easier to maintain than straight hair! Read More: Tia Mowry Chops off Long Locks

Hints for Fall Makeover Transitions:

1. Find a stylist you REALLY enjoy working with. It took me a while and it’s not always easy. Mine has moved to 3 different salons and I follow her everytime. I simply enjoy how she cuts my hair, offers ideas and suggestions. She also has curly hair, wears it curly and knows how to cut curly hair. After going through a lot of stylists, I found one that I trust, enjoy and know will be good to my hair.
2. Go to your stylist prepared. You should know what you’re looking for and have ideas of the results you would like to see. Bring magazines or pictures to illustrate you ideas. A good stylist will be able to tell you if your ideas match your hair type. They may also suggest some ideas as well.
3. Be as specific as you can be.  Put all the details out and on the table: color, cut and style, how much you want taken off , types of layers, bangs… Then discuss it together so that you know what to expect during your visit.
4. It’s fall but that doesn’t mean you have to go with orange. There are some great colors out there, but you should have an idea of what will work and what won’t work on your hair. Ask  your stylist for suggestions and do a little research on colors that will complement your skin tone or make the color of your eyes pop.
5. Don’t be afraid to try something new. If you have an idea for something different or a new look you want to try, go for it. If you’ve discussed it with your stylist, chances are it will look great even if it may take you some time to get used to, so, why not try it out?

Check out Tara’s fall curl makeover, complete with a bouncy blow out!

A Fall Curl Makeover

Changing up your look for the changing seasons

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NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Deborah Williams: Hi! I’m Debbie Williams. I’ve been following NaturallyCurly for about ten years now. I can honestly say that I have learned how to manage my hair through the recommendations on NC, be it what salon to go to or what products work best for my curls.

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls, or have you always enjoyed and embraced your curls?

DW: When I was younger, my go-to hairstyle was a ponytail because my mom and I didn’t know what else to do with it. We tried different things, but the stylists in my area didn’t know how to handle my curls. I even remember being turned away by a stylist because she “didn’t know how she could help me.” That was seriously traumatizing for a thirteen-year-old girl, but I eventually got over it. Then, when I was a junior in high school, I was eager for a more mature look and chopped it all off for a pixie cut (with little sideburns and all”>. I started growing out my hair in college, and that’s when I really started to embrace my curls. For the first time I HAD to learn how to manage my hair. I started to experiment with products, and for the first time I understood how to wear my hair long and free without a hair tie.

NC: What is your current routine/regimen?

DW: I wash my hair every 2-3 days depending on what I have going on and how my hair is holding up, and I condition every time I get my hair wet. When it comes to styling, I apply a healthy amount of Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner throughout my hair. Then I section it off and apply Ouidad Climate Control Gel using the rake and shake technique. I always finish it off with John Frieda Frizz-Ease Firm Hold Hold Hairspray.

NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?

DW: I usually wear my hair down and out, especially if I want to feel “put together.” But a ponytail is my default hairstyle when I’m working out or feeling lazy. I still struggle with finding variety in hairstyles, especially for more formal events. Thankfully, my best friend hired an awesome hair stylist for her wedding, Gina Castillo, and she whipped up an amazing updo that was simple, elegant and just perfect for the occasion.  

Read More: Real Texture Talk: Therese Tully

NC: What are your must-have products and tools?

DW: My fingers and a wide toothed comb for the shower.

NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural or started embracing your curls?

DW: I’ve always been natural. It was more about figuring out how to work with it and getting over the fact that I didn’t look like all my girlfriends.

NC: Did you every have any curly girl insecurities?

DW: When I was younger I was really insecure about my hair. I wanted nothing more than to have straight, manageable hair. As I grew into myself, I also grew into my hair. There was definitely an attitude change when I chopped off my hair and had to own a short haircut. I remember my dance teachers telling me I danced different, more confident with out all my hair. Then as it started to grow back I just owned it more. I was proud of my curls and started getting a lot of compliments on it from friends and random strangers on the street.

Read More: Does Natural Hair Love Start at Home?

NC: What is the best thing about being curly? How has having curly hair impacted your life?

DW: You’re instantly unique — it affects everything from your personality to your style and how you interact with people.

NC: Does having curly hair affect your everyday life?

DW: It’s part of who I am. I wouldn’t be me without my curls. They’ve forced me be a little non-traditional, confident and comfortable with who I am. My curls helped me understand that it is okay to be different, have my own opinions and be my own person. I think these are lessons we all learn at some point in life, but having curly hair pushed me to accept these things early on. Thank goodness!

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

DW: Sometimes I see little girls with their unruly curls thrown up in a messy ponytail and I just want to tell them it will be okay. There will be a day when you will love your hair. I also want to shout, “Go to NaturallyCurly.com. It’ll change your life!”

NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects. Tell us about your life and what you are up to!

DW: In May, I graduated with my masters in advertising from the University of Texas at Austin. I’m currently interning at a great agency in Portland, Oregon and look forward to landing my dream job. The rest is to-be-continued, and I can’t wait!

Read More: A Hair Makeover That Blows

Greetings! My name is Kala Garner but I also go by KG. I’m from sunny San Diego, California and I love natural curly-kinky-coily hair! So much so that I created a site dedicated to being fabulously fashion forward while embracing and loving our tresses called BlackHairPower.com. I also blog whatever my heart desires at thekgtheory.com and vlog on my YouTube channel. When I’m not bloggin’ or vloggin’ I work as a Circuit Designer in the network engineering field. I recently moved to Detroit, Michigan for work, and am often homesick for the lovely Pacific Ocean. My eleven year-old turtle named Leo Jr. keeps me company on those days. In my free-time I love to cook, shop, enjoy the Detroit River Front or when in Cali take long walks on the beach…no really, I do!

Read More: Kala Garner: A Naturalista in New York

I found out about the fabulous Beautiful Textures Fashion Week Adventure contest through the Curly Nikki email newsletter “The Scoop.” I saw ‘Fashion Week’ and ‘New York City’ in the email and went to enter the contest right away!

Why I Wanted to Win

I am fashion obsessed! Creating fabulous fashion forward outfits is one of my creative outlets. I try to inspire others with my fashion just as I am inspired by other fashionistas. I believe that if you’re wearing something you feel looks fabulous, you will be fabulous! Some of the season’s hottest trends start on the runway, so  seeing a show during Fashion Week was a huge goal for me! One thing I am passionate about is curly-kinky-coily hair on the runway and in media. Popular beauty magazines, commercials, etc. almost never display textured hair. My goal as a blogger is to help usher in textured hair for high fashion on the runway. Being picked would place me at the premier event to help do this. You can only imagine how exciting it was for me when I heard I was picked as the winner of the Beautiful Textures Fashion Week Adventure!

Read More: 2012 Fall Fashion Week Trends

A FAB Makeover

One of my favorite experiences from the entire week was the Beautiful Textures Makeover! After checking into my beautiful room at Hotel Beacon I was swept away to Bloomingdales for my appointment with my personal shopper. Oh yeah! Can you say shopping spree?! When I walked in, I was greeted by Nicole Garner of The Garner Circle PR Firm and a complete camera crew! They were there to catch my entire shopping experience on camera. As I listened to Lavaughn (my personal shopper”> talk about some of the newest chic cocktail dresses I was in awe at all of the choices. We collaborated on what would look perfect on me to host Curl Couture that evening. After trying on a few dresses in my private dressing room (yeah, I felt pretty V.I.P.”>, I decided on an indigo blue French Connection dress and Calvin Klein shoes. Outfit? Check!

Read More: Your Edgy Curl to Toe Makeover

Beautiful Textures Hair and Makeup Transformation

With outfit in hand, I arrived at the venue for the event ready to get my makeup and hair done. When we pulled up I saw huge Beautiful Textures banners and a line of people already waiting to get in! I was beyond excited. First, my makeup was done to compliment the style and color of my dress. The transformation was amazing! Then I sat in hair stylist Derek Scully’s chair to have my hair done.

I had prepped my hair the night before by washing with Beautiful Textures Tangle Taming Moisturizing Shampoo and conditioned with their Rapid Repair Deep Conditioner. Derek took my now dry, clean hair and created an amazing style. Using a curling iron like a curling wand he created spirals. My hair was not brushed or combed or blow dried, which I appreciated. Just a curling iron and 20 minutes of work from Derek and his assistants and I was a new me! I was more than ready to co-host Curl Couture looking fabulous from my makeover!

After walking in I met and chatted with Lexi and AfroBella, two of my biggest inspirations! The experience was amazing as I interviewed, took pictures and enjoyed the night with fellow textured fashionistas!

Read More: How to Get the Curly Hairstyles of Fashion Week

At the Runway Shows

Curly hair on the runway? Not so much. Having a backstage pass to shows like Christian Siriano and Charlotte Bronson was phenomenal, but the hairstyles lacked texture. I was in fashion heaven while being somewhat disappointed with the texture-less styles I saw being created. I would have loved to see some of Lela Roses’ models sporting curly bobs or even Jill Stuarts’ models with a curly top bun. The fashion was fierce, so I took notes on which styles would look best with a textured look.

Being in the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Media Box was a completely different experience! Texture was everywhere and I was loving it! The hottest trend was the messy curly bun. Most days the weather was hot and humid, so most of the fashion forward curly girls I saw with curly hair wore buns or ponytails. A few photographers even asked to snap some shots of my style with my spirals (from the night before”> pinned up and out of the way. Michelle Breyer and I noticed that a number of shows styled their models in small “bed head” buns. The trend inspired street style and the “model bun” went curly inside and out of the Media Box. I saw lots of curly bobs and free flowing curly hair too!

Read More: Straight Runway, Textured World

To the Community

As a member of the natural hair community, I think it’s important to embrace our curly hair. Constant manipulation to our tresses can be damaging to our hair and our spirit. By consistently rejecting our textured hair we are teaching curly girls that the hair they were born with isn’t good enough. I’m all for changing it up and I love using hair as an accessory, but without seeing virtually ANY texture on the runway for the shows I attended during the Mercedes–Benz New York Fashion Week, I can see us curly girls have a lot of work to do! By sporting curly buns and other fashion forward curly hairstyles we can help usher in more curly styles for the runway and inspire curly girls and women everywhere!

I would like to sincerely thank Beautiful Textures and NaturallyCurly for picking me as their correspondent for the New York Fashion Week Adventure! The experience was unlike any other I have ever had. Opportunities to help keep curly-kinky-coily hair in the forefront of fashion keep coming my way because of this experience and I’m so grateful! This is only the beginning!

Read More: Natural Hair Takes Over Instagram

My New York Fashion Week Adventure!

Jill Scott is no stranger to the natural hair scene. Not only does she know how to rock what nature gave her, she knows how to do it diva style!  It’s no wonder then that the singer-turned-actress is featured fully and fabulously on the cover of the October 2012 issue of Essence.

Never afraid to change her style, Scott has wowed us over the years with stunning cornrows, hybrid half-braids and signature shaved hairstyles that always generate a buzz. Here’s a quick look at some of our favorite Jill Scott styles over the years.

Afroh!

2010

No one knows how to make a ‘fro look so good. Here Scott displays a beautiful set of braids lying crosswise in front and a loose flowing afro in the back.

Divas Celebrate Soul

December 2011

Jill Scott graced the stage during the 2011 VH1’s Divas Celebrate Soul show with flawless performances and a stunning new hairstyle. Jill combined classic and chic with shaved sides and a two-strand twists rolled up into a bold updo.

Read More: Jill Scott’s New Diva Twist Hairstyle

Half-Braided Cornrows

February 2012

Scott wowed us at the beginning of the year with this spectacular half-braided look with exposed cornrows.

Read More: Get Jill Scott’s Half-Braided Look

Essence Magazine

October 2012

Sporting a freshly-chopped TWA, Scott totally rocks the cover of the October issue of Essence and dishes about her new TV series and the next chapter of her life and career.

Read More: Jill Scott Goes Natural for the Cover of Essence

Gels may be your curly styling product of choice so, why use a curl cream? If you find that your curls get dried out and frizzy, you may need a styling product that is more nourishing than a gel. Curl creams tend to be more moisturizing and have fewer harsh drying ingredients than the average styling gel. If the idea of using a curl cream as a styler is new to you, check out these quick tips on how to use curl creams.

• Use a light moisturizing curl cream as a leave-in when your curls are thirsty. Mix it with a gel that plays well with others for a combination of moisture and curl definition.
• Heavier curl creams are better for fall and winter when the air is cooler and drier. Try a heavier curl cream that has both moisturizing and defining properties so that you don’t have to add gel and be concerned about having limp curls.
• Make sure the curl cream mixes well with gels or work well by itself. Before covering your whole head and ending up with a crunchy flakey mess, test a smaller section of your hair with the cream and your choice of gel to be sure they work well together. To use a curl cream by itself, look for one that says it defines curls or enhances curls. Sometime curl creams like this are called gel-creams.

Watch these curl cream suggestions and more ideas on how to use them from Tara!

About Curl Cremes

NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Therese Tully: Hi, my name is Therese Tully. Born and raised in Mendham, NJ. I am a junior at Boston College and an aspiring writer. Though I’m the youngest of eight kids, I am the only one with red curly hair!

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls, or have you always enjoyed and embraced your curls?

TT: Though I love my curls now, they have caused me a lot of pain in the past. Let’s just say fifth grade wasn’t my year. It was a dark time before I had discovered the power of conditioner and when my hair routine involved slicking my hair back into a tight ponytail and then combing it out. Yes, you read that correctly. I still shudder at the thought. Luckily, with the help of a fellow curly girl sister-in-law and lots of shine serum, my curls and I have become good friends. Diane von Furstenburg claims that the decision to stop straightening her hair and embracing her natural curl changed her life. I really relate to that, and have come to love the crazy imperfection of my curls.

NC: What is your current routine or regimen?

TT: My routine is super simple and pared down. I am extremely lazy when it comes to my hair. I think a good cut is important, and I get mine done almost every time I get home from college, because I trust no one but Clarissa with my hair! I also don’t wash my hair everyday because it is so dry and I hate to strip it of its natural oils. Other than that, my hair is pretty low maintenance.

NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?

TT: It begins in the shower. If it’s a shampooing day, I do that first and then use lots and lots of conditioner. I let that sit in my hair while I do everything else, giving it the optimum amount of time to soak in. Next, I rinse my hair with cold water, because I read somewhere that it makes it shiny — it seems to work! Out of the shower, I throw a towel on my head as I moisturize to let it soak up some of the water, though I have been told this is a curly haired sin! Afterwards I finger comb it and apply tons of shine serum. Next, I scrunch with conditioner, the same kind I used in the shower and I usually finish off with a layer of hairspray. What can I say…I’m a Jersey girl!

Read More: Real Texture Talk: Adele Aviles

NC: What about your hair stylists?

TT: Stylist. Singular. Her name is Clarissa. She is an angel and the only one who touches my hair. Our relationship is totally unhealthy; I worship her.

NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?

TT: I love just pulling the sides back and using a long flat barrette to hold it together. I think it looks romantic with the curls gathered up in the back. It’s definitely my go-to style. I also love a loose curly bun with a few stray curls escaping — I think I have perfected it over the years! But above all, I love just wearing it down and natural, especially in the summer when the salt and the wind at the beach have worked their magic.

NC: What are your must-have products and tools?

TT: I love Organix Liquid Glass Serum in Shea Butter. It smells so delicious and is a pretty good heavy weight, which I need! For conditioner, I rotate a lot, but anything from Garnier is rich and wonderful. The Moroccan0il Intense Curl Cream is really great too, but I am a super broke college kid, so I don’t usually indulge. My top hairspray choice is Condition 3-in-1 Maximum Hold Hairspray. My mom and I are both addicted to it. It’s not heavy or sticky and every time I wear it, people compliment me on the scent.

NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?

TT: I know I am supposed to be sleeping on a silk pillowcase or something, but to be honest, I don’t! I should do more, but really nothing. I never sleep with my hair up, because I know that’s bad for it. Sometimes, if I am really looking to preserve the curl, I will sleep with a silk scarf wrapped around my head, but my family laughs at me!

Read More: Celebrity Curls & Colors: Haute Red Hues

NC: What is the best thing about being curly?

TT: Curls are so unpredictable and they are never boring. They also make you feel special and unique. My curls are so low maintenance. I never have to waste time blow drying my hair. That is definitely the biggest plus!

NC: How does having curly hair affect your everyday life?

TT: Every day is a surprise. Is it going to be a good curl day or a day when I would rather shave my head? You never quite know. Also, I think it’s funny that when I meet people, as a curly redhead, they make so many assumptions about me right off the bat, some of them true some of them not. I guess it really colors the way people view me right from the start, and I don’t fight that.

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

TT: Straight hair can be so boring! Your curls are like no one else’s! Trust me, there are millions of people who would kill to have your hair.

NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects. Tell us about your life and what you are up to!

TT: I just ended a wonderful summer internship with Parenting Magazine where I met some incredible people and got to do some interesting writing. I am currently getting ready to go back to Boston College, and by getting ready, I mean shopping and avoiding packing for as long as possible. But mostly, I should be planning and preparing for another busy semester as the Features Editor for BC’s student newspaper, The Heights. I am definitely looking forward to the cooler fall temperatures and cool new knit hairbands for winter to accentuate my curls!

Read More: 4 Ways to Moisturize Your Curls

Every curl  is different, from one curly head to another, and even from one curl to another on one head. One thing every curl does have in common, however, is a need to be moisturized. Doing a no poo or low poo routine and always using a rinse out conditioner are good ways to maintain moisture. Another great way to maintain the moisture of your curls between washes or co-washes is to use a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing styler.

Ingredients

When you are looking for a moisturizing leave-in, make sure that water is the first ingredient. Water is always the source of the moisture your curls are looking for, but any other ingredients should serve to lock in that moisture so it doesn’t just evaporate and leave your curls high and dry. If you want to be able to use the leave-in as a detangler, look for ingredients like behentrimonium methosulfate or slippery elm that will give your hair enough slip so that you can easily detangle your curls. Here are some tips on how to get the most out your leave-in:

1. Section your hair off into 3-5 sections depending on your length.
2. Work the leave-in into each section by working up to the roots from the ends. If it’s a spray, spray starting at the ends and move up to the roots.
3. Smooth the product into your curls. Don’t pull or tug on hair as you work your product into it.
4. If you want loser curls, apply the leave-in in a downward motion, gently smoothing it in with your hands, section by section and from root to ends.
5. Take time to distribute the product well and coat each section of hair equally with the product.

Using leave-ins for curls

You may know how important it is to be careful with your curls and to treat them gently. When it comes to styling your curls, this rule still stands. In fact, extra care should be taken to prevent damage to your curls, especially if you choose to use heat to style. Here are some basic but valuable tips on how to safely style your curls with or without heat.

1. When using heat to dry, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer and don’t dry your hair completely. Stop diffusing when your hair is still slightly damp. This will help reduce your chances of causing heat damage.
2. When you use a hairdryer or any other heat tool, use a leave in product that will protect your hair, such as a heat protectant. Work the product through all of your hair prior to using heat.
3. No heat means just that — no hairdryer or heat tools. Allow your hair to air dry after applying your favorite styling product. If you go to bed with wet hair, use a satin pillow case to sleep on or pineapple your curls. When your hair is dry, gently rake it with your fingers and finish with pomade or finishing product of your choice.

Here’s how Tara styles her curls with no or low heat.

Style Your Curls With No or Low Heat

NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!

Adele Aviles: My name is Adele. I’m fifteen and about to start my sophomore year of high school in Austin, TX.

NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?

AA: When I was in fifth grade, I straightened my hair almost every day. My hair was always shoulder-length and I thought it looked better straight. I kept that routine up for a bit, but it was a huge hassle. Eventually I decided to grow my hair out and I started to wear it natural more often. By the time I started eighth grade, my hair was longer and super wavy!

NC: What is your current regimen?

AA: I wash and condition my hair at night, usually after coming home from practice. I started testing different curly hair products, and now I’m hooked on Tigi Bedhead Hi-Def Curls Shampoo and Conditioner. After showering, I comb and towel-dry my hair. While my hair is still damp, I apply DevaCurl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam. I usually let my hair air-dry.

NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?

AA: When I go to sleep with my hair wet, I put it in a single braid. But if I take an earlier shower and my hair has time to air-dry, I twist my hair into two bologna curls. In the morning, I shake out the curls and it looks like I just stepped out of the salon!

NC: What about your hair stylists?

AA: I usually go to get my hair cut at Visible Changes. It’s not too complicated—I usually just ask for a trim and long layers.

Read More: Real Texture Talk: Veronica Gilbert

NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?

AA: Lately, I have been very into braids. They really help to keep my hair out of my face when I’m playing sports. When I’m not in practice or playing in a game, I wear my hair loose and wavy.

NC: What are your must-have products and tools?

AA: When I’m working out, I use thick elastic headbands to keep my hair out of my face. I also keep small clips on hand throughout the day.

NC: What is the best thing about being curly?

AA: All my friends with straight hair complain about how boring their hair is…I love curly hair because it is versatile! I can wear it in almost any style that I want. It’s fun and it really highlights my outgoing personality!

NC: How do you think having curly hair affects your everyday life?

AA: I spend a lot less time styling my hair now— straightening it took forever, and it wasn’t good for my hair. I can tell that my hair was becoming dried out because of all the heat. Now it shiny and healthy!

NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?

AA: Curly hair is a blessing. Once you find the style and products that work for you, your routine will be easier and it will take less time! Just be patient — you won’t figure it out on the first try. It took a lot of trial and error for me to perfect my routine.

NC: Tell us about your life and what you are up to!

AA: I’m a starter on the varsity volleyball team this year, and I’m really excited to start the season! When volleyball is over, I will start basketball. In the meantime, I’m learning to drive and enjoying time with my friends.

Read More: 5 Tips for Deep Conditioning Your Waves