Search Results: Solenne eKeba
Sanaa Lathan surprised us all when she posted a video of herself on Instagram revealing her new-look. She captioned the video “#NappilyEverAfter.”
Slowing revealing her face to the camera, Sanaa quickly says with a smile “I feel so light I can fly away.”
Lathan’s leading role in the Netflix original film Nappily Ever After is the origin of this new hairstyle changes. The movie is an adaptation of best-selling novel Nappily Ever After, the engaging story of an African American advertising executive, her relationships with herself, her hair and “her commitment-phobic boyfriend.” This novel by Trisha R.Thomas is a definite must see for its ability to tackle real life scenarios and career defining moments.
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With her new this new hairdo Lathan joins the bold shaved hair clan, including stars like True Blood actress Danai Gurira and Chewing Gum star Michaela Coel. And while Instagram comments were mostly acknowledging how powerful and empowering her new do is, others were not convinced.
The conversation quickly went to femininity, womanhood and the link with hair. Are you still feminine without hair? Is hair really just hair? Many commented that shaving their own heads would be impossible. It is clear that hair is still very much associated with beauty and womanhood. Many users commented “why ??” under the video, wondering how the actress could have consented to shave her beautiful locs for a movie role. But cutting your hair seems to be an experience dreaded by many women,”When it comes to hair, all women can relate. Whether you are white, black or Asian we all agonize over how to wear it; toss and turn about what colour it should be; and, cringe at the thought of cutting it too short” says Cheryl Thompson, author of Black Women and Identity: What’s Hair Got to Do With It?.
As a celebrity, Lathan’s appearance, like most celebrities, is part of her brand, and is often dictated by society’s beauty standards.
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The new hairstyle comes right after Sanaa posted her new blonde hair color last week. She actually teased this new shaved head moment saying “the first of many changes,” but could we have predicted this in advance ?
We’re so here for Sanaa’s new look and the freedom she obviously feels since shaving it. We recently published this article Thinking of Shaving Your Head? Go Ahead and now Sanaa has given us one more reason and another source of inspiration!What do you think of this new do? Would you ever shave your head?
Would you let a stranger touch your hair in public?
Would their skin color change your answer ? For Cynthia Andrew, creator of SimplyCyn, the answer is no.
She recently reposted this photo of hers which was captured two years ago during an encounter she had in Italy with a white man and a white woman passing by showed curiosity about her hair. Andrew told Yahoo! Beauty:
“I appreciate the dialogue and perspectives I didn’t consider. However, I do draw the lines at generalizations about groups of people and attacks….I just think we need more images and conversations about how we walk through this world together,” she shared. “That’s how we get better. It’s not about seeking validation or admiration. It’s just that as an American, an African, a black woman, a child of the world, who has seen beauty in every shade, race, and culture, I want people to see a beautiful moment between two strangers and to remember that most of us — the majority of us — are good, kind people.”
The Instagram post’s caption read:
“I wanted to reshare this photo taken 2 years ago in Italy because it’s been reposted and shared over the past few without context and I thought I should put it in context – especially as I am not the only one in this image. You see, unbeknownst to me, many times when this image has been shared- it has been shared with negative connotations and implications- assumptions that this couple is doing something horrible, that they are treating me as an animal in a zoo, some even questioning my sanity for letting them “pet” me (laughing emoji”>- and this was so far from any of that. This lovely couple ‘s only fault is that they were unaware that their gesture is one that stirs up so many real and justified feelings of objectivity, judgment and dehumanization for many black women. But I think here is where intent is important and here is where we have to be careful about who we condemn. There are so many people deserving of condemnation and you’ve seen them very clearly over the last few and I don’t just mean past few days. This couple does not belong in that class- they were kind, they were complimentary- and Yes, I would rather someone reach out in curiosity than with hate. We can continue to educate our non black friends why this gesture carries more weight than they realize- but we should be careful not to vilify people so quickly – we should reserve that energy for those who are much more deserving of it- there’s quite a few of them out there showing their faces. #tbt #love #life #beauty #lovewins #blackgirlmagic
While Andrew had some followers on her side, others were not having it.
One commenter states, “true but I’m saying if they ask to feel it! Now if they just go up and touch my hair then I would be caught off guard.”
“I hear your point but I don’t completely agree,” another stated. “Curiosity? What is the curiosity for? Hair is hair! No need to touch mine…”
What is your take on this?
Are you team “don’t touch my hair” or “you can touch my hair?”
Rapper and actor Ice T’s wife, Coco Austin, might have gone too far with this one.
The entertainment personality showcased her new summer hairstyle (long blonde micro cornrows, braided to one side”>. While many users were not bothered by the fact that she wore braids, renaming the original braids was one step too far.
In her Instagram post she said, “I call ’em ‘The Coco Swoop’… I wanted a little change up for the summer. Thank you to my honey bun @therealmisssmod always doing a great job with my braids… Oh and by the way, I name all the braid styles I do even hair styles with no braids… It’s a cute thing I do… I have many weird Coco-isms do.” See her defense here in part 1 and part 2 here.
Coco defended herself in a two-part video, mentioning that she names all of her hairstyles, including ones without braids.
She explained: “ So, recently I got social media’s panties in a bunch because I did braids to my hair. This is so stupid. I can’t believe I’m talking about it, and I believe this shouldn’t be turned out to be a race thing,” she said in the video.
“I name all my styles that I do to myself. These are called the ‘Coco Swoop,'” Coco continued. “The braids before were called the Bo Derek Braids. And it’s a Coco-ism. I’ve always done it… Why can’t we all rename hairstyles or braids? That sounds so stupid. Why is everybody claiming something they shouldn’t?”
The Instagram police were not happy with this.
Many pointed out that Coco’s protective, braided hairstyles (and afro puffs, seen here“> were created and named long before this summer, and this nickname had no place to be. Ice T went to his wife’s rescue on Twitter, adding to the fire:
Her hairstylist, Makessia Ollivierre, also came to Coco’s defense on Instagram post.
“She’s never claimed that she invented braids or otherwise. What someone chooses to do to themselves [or their] hair is nobody’s business,” she wrote. “Quite frankly there are way too many things in the world that that energy should be focused on. All you internet trolls need to get a f***ing life, it’s not that serious!”
#NaturallyCurly world, what do you think?
Was social media too harsh on this one ? Was Coco wrong in renaming her braids?
Let us know in the comments.
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Actress Taraji P. Henson has surprised and amazed us one too many times, especially on Empire, but this time she is real life amazingness: Taraji. P. Henson has been rocking a short buzz cut for the past few days on social media and IRL, and per usual, the NaturallyCurly team is loving it.
Promoting @blackgirlsrock for BET, Henson has been seen recently rocking her natural for various events and videos, and social media has been all over it. And while her new haircut is gorgeous — and even a bit edgy for Hollywood standards — should we expect Henson to keep her hair in its natural state forever? Is this an ongoing trend with celebrities or a true change in accepted aesthetics and beauty standards? Recently we have seen the likes of Keke Palmer, Zendaya, Solange, Nicole Ari Parker, Issa Rae, and more rocking their natural hair on red carpets and social media. So does this mean that it is a thing?
While Solange has rocked her natural hair for a few years now, her undefined curls never stop to create unsolicited advice from critics regarding whether or not a celebrity should wear her hair natural and deciding if it will be a permanent decision.
For some reason, celebrities like Taraji P. Henson showing us what her hair really looks like is still a phenomenon. But why is that? Have we forgotten that they were probably not born with 25-inch long, blond weaves? Is our newfound happiness linked to the fact that our favorite celebrities are starting to look more and more like… us? I wonder if we have gone from admiring public figures and celebrities for their looks to actually connecting with them on a deeper level? Think about it: it is almost like sharing products with them. Right?
However, maybe we shouldn’t put the cart before the horse.
Solange Knowles had her big Twitter moment back in 2012, saying “I never painted myself as a team natural vice president. I don’t know the lingo and don’t sleep with a satin cap… However, I did [notice] when I picked out my hair, I kept seeing feedback about needing a ‘twist out.’ Confession: I hate twist-outs. Correction: I hate the way they look on me, so I end up always picking them or steaming them out. Look, all I’m saying is, my hair is not very important to me… so [I] don’t encourage it to be important to you.”
While the natural movement seemed to give many a sense of pride, it also has entitled others to critique and advise — even almost command — other people’s hair into their own ideas of what their hair should look like. So should we appreciate Taraji P. Henson’s hairstyle for what it is or should we expect her to be our new favorite natural hair guru?
What do you think about Taraji. P. Henson’s new look?
Or the latest wave of celebrities rocking their natural hair? Let us know in the comments.
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photo courtesy of Lauren Ash
While many brands have failed times and over to include women of color in their targeted audience, there is a curated and intimate event for natural beauty enthusiasts and influencers that actually exists. One that is coming up in the New York area is for women of color who appreciate natural beauty and want to discover products designed with them in mind.
What is Project Beauty Expo?
Indie brand founders and beauty influencers will hold an hour-long panel that will include talks from Lauren Ash of Black Girl in Om, Selma Idris of The Brown Crayon Project and Lauren Napier of Lauren Napier Beauty, as well as lifestyle content creator, Vic Styles. Many well-known and indie brands like Farmacy Beauty, Nasty Hands, Alaffia, Eden Body Works, Hi Wildflower, Bloomsbury Square, Brooklyn Limegreen, Rooted Treasure, Kaike, Cleanse by Lauren Napier and more will be at the expo. Special guests and many other beauty influencers will be attending for a combined estimated social reach of 1 million.
Brittany Brown, Founder of Project Beauty Expo (@projectbeautyexpo“>:
“We’re so excited to bring PBE to NYC! It’s the first beauty expo of its kind created with the brown, natural beauty enthusiast in mind. We can’t wait to share the wealth of knowledge from our panelists, as well as re-introduce some truly wonderful natural brands.”
Lauren Ash, Founder of Black Girl in Om (@blackgirlinom“>:
“Over the past year, I’ve grown increasingly passionate about skincare and beauty, particularly non-toxic, handcrafted lines created by women of color. We have always been creating and innovating healthy solutions for ourselves and our communities. I’m looking forward to joining together in conversation and spirit with phenomenal women creating compassionate beauty options for all of us.”
Lauren Napier, Founder of Lauren Napier Beauty (@laurennapier“>
“This is spectacular. Can’t wait!”
Vic Styles, Beauty & Lifestyle Influencer (@vicstyles“>:
“It’s always great when black women come together. I’m stoked to be in a space where black women and our beauty will be celebrated and appreciated.”
Selma Idris, Founder of The Brown Crayon Project (@thebrowncrayonproject“>:
“In a crowded digital landscape, great products often get lost in the noise. Events like PBE provide small businesses like mine a valuable platform to directly engage with exactly who we make our products for.”
Psst. I got you a deal.
The Project Beauty expo is offering all our NaturallyCurly readers $5 off Early Bird Tickets (valued at $35″>. Please use code “NATURALLYCURLY” at checkout. Visit the Project Beauty Expo website to purchase your ticket today.
Mara Brock Akil is on her journey to going grey!
The mastermind screenwriter and executive producer for Being Mary Jane and Girlfriends recently shared why she went natural, is embracing grey, loving her hair, and letting go on her Instagram account, @maraakil:
GREY// I should’ve started this #hairjourney… really #mejourney a year and half ago when it began. That time back in March 2016 when my grey resisted my last color of February 2016 for award season… But I wasn’t sure I would stay committed. Actually I wasn’t sure I was on the journey yet, but I did make a decision then that I would go #natural through the end of #summer2016 to save #time and #thought and #money. But at the end of the summer I decided to keep going. I believe my friend @iamrebeccawalker inspired me at this time. I saw the image of her allowing her grey and I thought she was #beautiful and #brave… I still wasn’t sure but I also wasn’t making appointments to get it colored. Plus I was writing/developing new projects… I’ll decide before I start doing press again with the sell of new shows… then we sold the shows and I was starting to do #panels#redcarpets but I didn’t make the appointment… I gave myself until my birthday in May to decide. And ultimately I decided to allow my grey. I mostly love it! There are still days I’m not sure… but that’s just it, whether it’s #Hair or #JustMe my journey has lead me to love it and [accept] the moments of being unsure. That’s tantamount to #lettinggo #doingme… until I decide to do something else! #InTheLandOfGettingGrownAndGoingGrey
Many celebrities have talked about ageism in Hollywood and grey hair has been a recurrent topic lately, feeding the conversation on a new — and real — way of representing people, especially older women in the media. It’s about embracing change, and celebrating it, as nothing in stays stagnant in life.
But are we ready for it as an Instagram and Photoshop society?
Whether the answer is yes or no, many have spoken on the issue; some stars including Antonio Banderas, Meryl Streep and Madonna are condemning ageism in Hollywood.
Alice Walker is another example of a woman embracing going grey.
If you are still not convinced about letting go and going grey, maybe this will help:
“With age and experience, you will be happy to know, growth becomes a conscious, recognized process. Still somewhat frightening, but at least understood for what it is. Those long periods when something inside ourselves seems to be waiting, holding its breath, unsure about what the next step should be, eventually become the periods we wait for, for it is in those periods that we realize we are being prepared for the next phase of our life and that, in all probability, a new level of the personality is about to be revealed.”
More cultural appropriation backlash: this time, Armani Prive Runway is under fire.
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The most recent cultural appropriation fashion controversy comes via the New York Times’ Instagram account following Paris Haute Couture shows this week. In one post, a closeup of one model’s hair, in which she had sleekly wrapped entirely around her head, had a caption that gave photo credit to the Giorgio Armani Privé Paris Fashion Week runway show. Many followers recognized the hairstyle as the ‘doobie wrap’ which is also referred to as a ‘wrap’ popularized by Black and Latina women, quickly calling out the fashion label for cultural appropriation, or failing to attribute the style to women of color. The post has been flooded with comments ever since.
One follower commented, “I do not have an issue with other races wearing or doing anything they want with hair or clothes, but stop pretending like it’s new and innovative. [If] I walk the streets with my hair wrapped I am considered less fortunate or for lack of a better word, ‘ghetto.’“
“You should probably take this down. This is a clear example of cultural appropriation,” explained another user. “Black and brown women have been wrapping their hair just like this for decades. And now when white women do it, it’s a fashion trend. I know you might not have known. But now that you do…please take this down. Thanks, the hundreds of black and brown women who are offended by this out of touch post.”
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Doobies originated from the Caribbean and are used to maintain the bounce and volume of naturally wavy, curly, and textured hair after a blow dry. In many hair salons for women of color, this technique wraps hair around the scalp, securing it with bobby pins to maintain volume and bounce once it has been washed, conditioned, and blow-dried.
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But that’s not all.
The controversy even went further, as Instagram users realized that the hairstyle was not truly the “hair look” for Armani’s latest showing. On the runway, each model’s head was covered with an embroidered headpiece that included a netted black veil, complementing its new Parisian Chic collection.
Spokespeople for Armani have yet to comment on the event, but we promise to give you an update once we hear word from them. However, Armani shared the inspiration behind the collection in a statement:
“Sensations transform to become a source of inspiration cloaked in a halo of mystery. Ribbons of black patent leather completely encrusted with crystals, outlining floral contours; the magic of transparencies and veils; and the precious embroidery of haute couture. All this evokes the image of a mysterious and sensual woman.”
Interestingly enough, mainstream media has been perplexed about the ‘wrap’ for some time now. Back in 2013, Rihanna rocked a blinged-out version to the American Music Awards that left many wondering if she was short on time for makeup and hair for leaving her house this way.
What is your take on cultural appropriation?
Read 5 Ways I Rock My Curls Without Appropriating Black Hair
While the event gathered some of the country’s best artists, actors and actresses to be celebrated and recognised for their outstanding talent and contribution to the industry, this is a good occasion to get inspired by a style or two, for your next Summer wedding or warm night’s out. Here is a list of all our favorite hairstyles which graced the red Carpet this past Monday. A mix of classic and bold, with a little of risqué was the word of order.
Issa Rae
While we still have some time before the return of Insecure on HBO, the actress put on a great show last Monday, rocking a half-up/half-down caramel tresse. We love the small braids and beads details on each ear side given to the look, which could easily turn into your favourite summer protective style.
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Pearl Thusi
The South African actress was a definite wow factor. Wearing her signature voluminous curls, this one’s a keeper!
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Skai Jackson
Don’t be fooled, she might be young, but the Disney actress could be teaching us a thing or two about hair. You can’t go wrong with an Curly Afro (and kisses embroidered blouse”>.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
Goapele
A few actresses went short recently, such as Amandla Stenberg (and we love it!”>, but the Queen of the caesar cut is right here. Paired with statement earrings, and matching violet lipstick and dress, Goapele just became our ultimate girl crush.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
Erica Ash
Who said locs were not versatile? The actress elongated her silhouette by opting for a High knot bun updo. Easily re-created, locs or any form of protective style.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
Yara Shahidi
There’s nothing like a defined twist-out. Timeless, yes, but also time saver: the look can be worn throughout the week, with minimal touch-ups, giving you some extra minutes to procrastinate in bed.
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Dascha Polanco
The Orange is the New Black actress went for a classy and épuré look. Super classy, this sleek bun is very much a summer essential for the upcoming warm days.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
Sierra McClain
Master your edges and channel your inner Sierra McClain. The effects of laid edges are not negligible.
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LeToya Luckett
For transitioners, and short hair ladies, this a must do ! No need to straighten your hair with heat to create the base for this look, find out how to here.
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Eva Marcille
Go big or go home: Eva Marcille showed us how protective styling can also be fierce and bold. Keep things exciting with colored mèches.Who do you think rocked the best look at the BET Awards?
According to a 2013 study, 38% of all murdered women were by their intimate partners, and 42% of women who have experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of a partner had experienced injuries as a result; which could be identified during a hair appointment if the stylist is well informed.
Hair stylists in Illinois will now take advantage of the trust relationships built with their clients and put them to good use.
With the introduction of a new legislation which requires all cosmetologists and students to take a mandatory hour training every two years on how to connect clients to the right resources, and how to tell if a client might a victim of any form of violence.
The sessions will act as a forum to exchange information about the behavior that should put a cosmetology worker on alert. They will have to recognize that abuse, especially when it is emotional, can be more subtle to spot during a relatively short consultation. The new legislation, which is an amendment to the Barber, Cosmetology, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985, will not require stylists to report abuse. However, they will be trained to look for warning signs and offer support. They will also learn which crisis groups to direct women to.
According to a 2013 study, 38% of all murdered women were by their intimate partners, and 42% of women who have experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of a partner had experienced injuries as a result.
This sign could be identified — and hopefully, avoided — during a hair appointment if the stylist is well-informed. State Representative Fran Hurley explains to the Chicago Tribune, “there’s an openness, a freeness, a relationship that last years or decades between the client and the cosmetologist. They’re in a position to see something that may or may not be right.”
Organizations like the Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis (AWAIC”> are already using the all-female and familiar environment as a mean to combat domestic violence and this new legislation is taking the fight against domestic violence to new heights. There is is urgency in the matter as, one in three women and one in seven men experience violence at the hands of a partner in their lifetime, said Kristie Paskvan, the founder of Chicago says, ‘no more.’
In June 2013, the Global Health Organization described domestic violence as a “global health problem of epidemic proportions.”
And while many countries seem to have stepped into the past (earlier this year Putin approved the decriminalisation of some domestic violence”>. Other countries have shown far more humanity : in a heartbreaking ad titled, “Hair, the pride of a woman,” we witness the mental impact that domestic violence has on the psyche of its victims. The ad, created for a domestic violence hotline named Jui, shows a woman repeatedly asking a hairdresser to cut her hair “short.” As the hairdresser comments about what a shame it is to cut such beautiful hair, the woman stares into the mirror and keeps insisting that her hair needs to be still “shorter.” When the woman’s hair is reduced down to only a bob cut, the hairdresser assumes she’s finished with her job. But with tears in her eyes, the woman grabs her own hair and pulls it.
[quote]“Make it even shorter,” she says. “So that no-one can hold it like this again.”[/quote]
Domestic violence is a national issue, not only an international one. In Alaska alone about 50% of women have experienced some form of domestic or sexual violence. And while many would not risk going to a professional directly, the hairstylist is the next best option for many.
“They say that the hairdresser gets all the secrets,” says hairstylist, Ms. Smith to the Chicago Tribune. “They let go here. Everybody doesn’t talk, but once you build a relationship with someone, that’s when it happens. It’s just like when you have a best girlfriend.”
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotlineat 1-800-799-7233 or TTY 1-800-787-3224 for confidential support.
If you started your natural hair journey within the last few years you will likely have come across Meechy Monroe’s YouTube channel. Loyal subscribers labeled her signature look the “Meechy twist-out,” the super defined, soft, textured, vibrant Afro. Also known as part of the sibling duo the Monroe Sisters with her sister Vaughan, Meechy has always been passionate about helping people and beauty. But it was much more than that. She told Chicago Tribune in a heartfelt interview, “I tell women that it’s not all about the outer appearance but to be happy with oneself. I’ve learned that beauty isn’t just hair and makeup – it goes much deeper.”
The battle
In April of 2014, before her 29th birthday, Monroe noticed one side of her face was drooping. She had trouble with her speech. A few medical exams revealed that she had suffered three strokes.
On May 31, 2014 Meechy was diagnosed with a rare cancerous tumor called a sarcoma, and spent the next 6 weeks in the hospital. After suffering multiple mild strokes and being diagnosed with Aphasia (difficulty in language delivery”>, Meechy underwent a second surgery July 3rd 2014.
She then understandably disappeared from the internet for what fans deemed too long, she wrote “Who knows how strong you have to be until you are faced with so many life-changing decisions.” Her online community quickly rallied behind her to support Monroe and her family both mentally and financially with the hashtag #GetWellMeechy. Some helped with expensive medical bills by attending the Curls for a Cause benefit event sponsored by Cantu in Chicago on September 20, 2014. They raised nearly $60,000 overall to help pay medical bills for Monroe, who did not have health insurance.
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“It’s overwhelming,” she told People. “They tell me, ‘I love you, I’m praying for you.’ It makes me cry every day, I’m so grateful.”
In previous episodes of her YouTube series REAL LIFE, Vaughan shared the reality of her sister’s sickness and battle. Their online community and the rest of the world witnessed a memorable bond and touching reflection of sisterly love as Meechy fought the battle of her life.
A lesson for all
Meechy told People in February 2015 that since her cancer diagnosis, it was important for her to open a discussion about her cancer and her journey back to health. She said “Knowing there are other women out there facing cancer like I am, I want to do everything I can to let them know they’re not alone.”
Meechy was as bold as she was a fighter. She posted photos showing herself bald and with a 40-pound weight gain from her treatments. She was also kind and thoughtful; before her surgery, Meechy donated her gorgeous hair to Locks of Love, benefitting children who have suffered hair loss from cancer treatment, “I have to look at the bright side: I’m saving money by not having to get my hair cut.” Monroe kept herself looking fabulous through it all, wearing colorful hats and scarves while her hair grew back.
Meechy ends the interview saying : “I’ve learned not to take my health for granted and to live in the moment. I’m grateful for every second of living on this earth.”
A few hours ago, her sister Vaughan shared the heartbreaking news of Meechy’s passing on her Instagram account, writing “I am broken. Rest up sis.”
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This is a devastating loss for her family, her extended family of the natural hair community, and beyond. Personally I’m so saddened by this. I was wondering how she was doing a few days ago after watching her sister’s vlog. There has been an outpouring of prayers and support across social media over the news. Life is so precious.
Our sincerest thoughts go out to the family and friends of Meechy Monroe. Her voice and presence in the natural hair community will be deeply missed. Rest In Peace, Queen.
