Your Africa Is Showing!

Sunday's Question: What Products Have You Retired?

2012-01-29T10:49:00.001-05:00

I've been looking through our blog archives reminiscing over styles and products that were once used. I remember when I was all about certain products, like a Renpure Organics conditioner, Herbal Essence, IC Fantasia Gel and Kinky-Curly Knot Today, just to name a few. I fondly think of these products but realize I haven't used them in ages for a two main reasons: A) Too pricey, and found

From Coco & Creme: Natural Hair Bad Habits

2012-01-27T11:29:00.000-05:00

Good morning natural hair enthusiasts! I was browsing through one of my favorite sites on style Coco & Creme and came across a list of Natural hair Bad Habits. From that list, I'll tell you that lately I've been so guilty of going to sleep without protecting my hair. I really should get some satin pillow cases, because while I've found my red Egyptian Cotton sheets to be so comfortable to

Reader Question: What Twist Pattern Do I Use For My Twist-Outs?

2012-01-23T20:07:00.006-05:00

This post is an answer to reader Melyssa's questions: was that a twist or braidout? Do you think you could post a picture of the placement of your flat twists? Hey Melyssa & all other readers who have been wondering the same thing, here is a link to photos of how I generally place my flat twists to achieve my twist out looks. I generally always use this same pattern when flat twisting my hair

Re-attempting the Perfect Twist Out

2012-01-23T01:53:00.002-05:00

About 2 weeks ago I discovered how to achieve the twist out of my dreams... by doing a twist out on hair that was roller set with end wraps. Though it is a bit of a time consuming regimen, I am going to do my best to make the time to stick to it because my scalp seems to do okay with this method, as last time I didn't feel the need to wash for almost 2 weeks! Normally I can't go longer than 4

Back to Braids!

2012-01-21T15:59:00.000-05:00

Snow has finally decided to show up in NYC (which hasn't happened since October) and for some reason this reminded me that I wanted to do a long-term protective style. I've been having a blast with my flexi rods sets because they last until my next wash day and I think the curly-bob is cute! So I learned that we'd be hit with some snow and started randomly missing braids. As I've mentioned

Great Day @ the MOMA

2012-01-20T01:46:00.000-05:00

An old friend of mine randomly hit me up this morning and invited me out to the MOMA! I was so psyched when I got there because it had totally slipped my mind that the Diego Rivera display was on now! His work is so real and truthful, he's definitely one of my favorite artists. You're not supposed to take pictures... but I managed to sneak one.. Circa 1932 I had a great day walking around the

I Just Graduated from the TWA Academy!

2012-01-17T21:34:00.003-05:00

It's been super hectic for me since I've started at Wilhelmina. I'm learning better time management and with needing to look decent for work, I live in twist outs! I try my best to twist my hair up every night, not always in the same exact twist pattern, and sometimes I may just put my hair into little pony tails. Of all things important, I'm doing my best to never go to sleep without a satin/

Sunday's Question: Is Your Natural Hair Routine "High" or "Low" Maintenance?

2012-01-15T14:46:00.002-05:00

My Bentonite Clay mixture At this very moment, I'm sitting here with Bentonite Clay in my hair (and on my face). I love this stuff. I love applying it and I love how great my hair feels once I rinse it out. After I rinse this out I'm going to condition with Suave, use Aphogee for some light protein and apply TreSemme as my leave-in and seal with coconut or Vatika oil. Then I'm going to set my

I Got FRO's!

2012-01-14T01:29:00.000-05:00

Rollersetting Natural Hair: Curlformers vs. Flexirods

2012-01-11T10:40:00.000-05:00

As you all know from my previous post, I finally did a full flexi-rod set and I was overjoyed with the results. Since then, I've done two more sets and both have come out to my liking. Considering we're in the cold weather season (a.k.a. Winter) I'm trying to avoid the inevitable snagging that occurs with wearing heavier clothing and the ends of my hair hang down and loose and rub against coats

The Perfect Twist Out! New Year, New Regimen?

2012-01-05T15:25:00.000-05:00

So on thursday before New Years I decided to rollerset my hair. I've attempted roller setting my natural hair before and it usually comes out good.... except for in my curlier textures where it just looks like smushed up, stretched out curls. This time I decided I was going to try using end wraps on the ends of my roller set to try and get them to come out straight. So using my Motions Foam Wrap

Hair Style for the New Year - Flexi Rod Set + Updo

2012-01-02T11:37:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year folks! Hope you all had a safe one. I personally stayed inside the comfort of my apartment stuffing my face and guzzling down beer with Mr. Smooth while watching content on Netflix and Hulu (I don't even remember what it was we were watching haha) But before I had my own little private party on New Years Eve, I decided to do my hair. I had my hair straight for a little over a

Hair Crush: Kelis

2011-12-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

Long, short, straight or curly, brightly colored or dark and lovely, Kelis' hair is awesome. Other cool things about her: She's a Grammy-nominated artist, a singer-songwriter, plays instruments, and is from Harlem! I don't listen to her music like that, but it's really hard not to pay attention to her because of how fun and creative her hair (and make up!) always looks. I think those with

Monday's Twist - Out Updo

2011-12-21T01:05:00.002-05:00

On Sunday night I washed my hair, detangled and put it in 5 flat twists, done with Care Free Curl Instant Moisturizer, Shea Moisture curl enhancing smoothie, and Eco Styler Olive Oil gel. The next morning I untwisted and wasn't really loving the way my hair was hanging so I came up with this out of the blue... I loved the definition of the curls in the front so I decided to make a side hump

Avocado Deep Conditioner & Hair Updates

2011-12-20T17:02:00.000-05:00

I don't know if I've shared this yet, but ever since I came back from Tampa 4 weeks ago, my hair has been acting a little funky; it's been drier and there's some breakage and I'm positive it was the water down there as well as the up-and-down temperatures here in NYC. I've been trying to restore my hair and I think it's getting back to normal. I've been washing my hair twice a week (usually

Hair Memories: Males Helping You With Haircare?

2011-12-16T11:07:00.002-05:00

I remember a few times as a kid where my mother hadn't braided my hair and sent me to my father's house in Brooklyn. I grew up Muslim and mostly had my hair covered, but my hair still had to be neatly groomed to fit a scarf over my head! Age 8 with one of my younger sisters, "N" I've always had a lot of hair and it seemed to frighten my father whenever he had to manage it by either ponytails

Sisterly Advice: Keeping Natural Hair Moisturized in the Winter

2011-12-12T11:19:00.000-05:00

One of my sisters, who's in college in Boston, called me not to long ago telling me that she wanted to deviate from her "box-braids routine" and wear her hair "out" for a little while and wanted to know what products she could use to keep her hair moisturized. I'm always excited when one of my sisters or cousins (and even my fiance's relatives) call to ask me what they should do or use on their

Why is MY natural hair good enough for you but yours isn't?

2011-12-09T02:05:00.003-05:00

This may sound strange, but the title from this post stemmed from a few compliments, that I sort of read as an insult... So for Turkey-day (sorry, don't really celebrate, just eat) I wore my hair in a twist out Fro because I didnt have time to really style my twist out. It came out pretty cute and all I did was untwist my 6 flat twist and finger comb them, then pulled in different directions to

Beyonce's Natural Hair

2011-12-06T13:33:00.005-05:00

Beyonce, our biggest star since Michael Jackson. So just as everyone was all up in his business, everyone is in hers as well. We all love her for her amazing talent, captivating her audience by first glance and note, her moves like Jagger, and let's not forget all the amazing Lace Front Wigs that come with her (like she's "Weaving Fun Beyonce"). It's funny because I'm really not one to be

Protective Styling Vs. Hands In Hair Syndrome!

2011-12-05T15:44:00.000-05:00

And this time, Protective styling won! Lol For someone who is trying to achieve great lengths, I may have worse case of Hands In Hair Syndrome ever!!! Besides the fact that I rarely wear the same style from one day to the next, If that style is out, I definitely have my fingers dippin' in it. Even if it is up, once I get home and take out whatever pins, banana clips or whatever types of hair

Hair Product List: Cool Weather Edition

2011-12-05T11:51:00.000-05:00

It's December folks, and time to address and assess hair needs for the season. I plan to wash my hair twice a week and mainly stay with protective styles, such as buns my new favorite go to style, the Side Braid. I also want to concentrate more on preserving my hair and growth because I have a goal to be MBL (Mid-Back Length) by my birthday in May 2012--is it possible? Guess we'll see... Now

My New Go To Styles: Buns and Side-Braids

2011-12-04T10:27:00.000-05:00

These days, I've been trying to find hair styles that are easy to throw together in the mornings before work and to easily travel with while out of town (I just came back from Tampa and New England, and it looks like 2012 will be travel-heavy as well). I've been testing a couple of looks out and so far my favorites are Buns and Side-Braids. I know you're thinking a bun isn't a really big deal.

Intro Tips For Grocery Shopping and Cooking (for the Young, Natural and Busy)

2011-12-02T16:10:00.004-05:00

We talk a lot about hair here at YAIS, but this is also a blog for the twenty-somethings who are navigating adulthood. It can be really rough sometimes and although we are "adults" we do need some guidance and life lessons, especially in time management, how to to deal with emotional issues, etc. For those of us who graduated high school and work or have recently finished college (like myself)

From Essence: The Natural Hair Blogger's Holiday Gift Guide

2011-12-01T12:01:00.000-05:00

If you're a natural who celebrates the holidays, it's a great time to ask for all things hair-related! I came across this gift guide from Essence from some of our favorite natural hair bloggers. Some of my favorite picks are the Natural Hair Love Affair Hair Emergency Kit, The Hair Therapy Wrap, The Science of Black Hair (I really need this book!) and Satin Pillow Cases. Nothing fancy, but

CHI Deep Brilliance Blow Dryer Review + Hairstyle Video

2011-11-28T02:38:00.000-05:00

I made this video a few weeks ago to review this new blow dryer I got that I'm head over heels with! It's lightweight, not too loud, all the parts are secure and smooth, and it's hot so you can work fast!Looking back at this video was hilarious though I must say, I did laugh at myself. Lol Making videos for this blog has been lots of fun and I am surprisingly thoroughly enjoying... Okay... on to

Does Hair Length Matter?

2011-11-27T13:43:00.000-05:00

The other day I was admiring my younger sister's hair and commenting on how well she's taking care of it while busy with college. She keeps her hair in box braids with the occasional braid-out or flat-ironed style. Her hair stretched is probably shoulder length, and she mentioned to me that she's going to cut it again to keep it at her desired length in braids, which hang at neck-length. She

Weaves

2011-11-24T12:37:00.001-05:00

With the fall and winter here in New York and me back to working, I've been intending to give myself a weave some time soon so I can protective style and give my hair a break. With all of these thoughts in mind about giving myself a weave, what kind of hair to use, what color, what length and haircut do I want... I decided to go back and look at a few weaves I've given myself over the years.. On

Natural @ Wilhelmina Deux

2011-11-23T17:45:00.001-05:00

I hate when my life gets so busy that I have to do one of these where the heck has SP been? type of posts... but I guess that's just how the cookie crumbles sometimes... Tis the season for back-posting! So... I'm loving Wilhelmina! Strolling into the office, it's all white and refreshing, the perfect temperature, carpeted walkways for Diva's like me who wants to walk every runway in heels and

Experiment, Test, Conclusion: My Straightened TWA

2011-11-22T22:21:00.001-05:00

Straightened Hair on 09.26.11 In this first winter of having a little length with my natural hair, I've tried straightening my hair a few times in the last couple of months, just to see what my hair would be like and if wearing it straight would be a possibility. I've learned that I definitely can wear my hair straight, but at this short length with my hair being so light and fine, I need some

The Young, Curly and Fabulous - Hair Care in a New City

2011-11-14T09:30:00.001-05:00

Please join us in welcoming our newest contributor to YAIS, Ariel. She is a college student hailing from NYC and currently studying Fine Arts in San Francisco. She was featured as a Style Icon at Black Girl Long Hair and between studying and creating her art she will be contributing to the blog a couple of times a month; show her some love! My ﬁrst semester here in San Francisco, I made the

Greasing Natural Hair: Poll Results

2011-11-07T10:36:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Thanks to all those who participated in our poll about going old school and using grease on your hair. The results are as follows: 65% Do not use grease at all19% Use grease sometimes15% Use it all the time to seal your ends/hair0% Use it for you scalp This is interesting because enough naturals do use grease to a certain extent (34% of those who voted). I'm assuming no one uses

Hair Crush: The Huxtable Family!

2011-11-06T00:40:00.004-04:00

First and Foremost, I have to say how much I respect Mr. Cosby, If not for being an educated smart black man who still keeps it real, for showing it through his work and especially this show. This was and still is one of my favorite sitcoms of all time, as it shows black people in a beautiful light, for the smart, funny, quirky, humans that we are, not always fitting negative sterotypes. Another

Protective Styling For Natural Hair: The Case for Buns

2011-11-01T13:54:00.001-04:00

I'm one of those naturals who has just discovered how great buns are; I seriously didn't know how to bun until recently, and I'm still experimenting. It's pretty much my go to style when my hair is loose and I don't want to do much to it. I'm rocking a messy bun today which was done after a curl former set. All I need is a hair-tie and some bobby pins and I'm good to go on those mornings when

Old School: Greasing Natural Hair

2011-10-31T03:03:00.000-04:00

There's been seeing a lot of chatter lately about hair grease and how naturals have been ashamed to come forward and say they use it. It's been said that grease is no-no because of ingredients like mineral oil. Here are our opinions on it's usage: Curly Film Chick: I used to use Indian Hemp all the time for my scalp because it was always itchy and flaking; this turned out to be a bad idea

Natural @ Wilhelmina

2011-10-24T20:41:00.000-04:00

I don't know if I've yet to, or when was the last time I updated my employment status, but I am no longer working at the Scott J. Aveda salon. My heart was never into the salon environment, especially the fast paced high end salon environment of New York. People working as though it's a hair factory, on 1/2 hour or 45 minute time blocks, depending on the clients length, textures, and desires. In

Hair For the Week: Flat-twists Using African Threading

2011-10-24T19:18:00.000-04:00

Okay, so my hair is back to curly. No issues with reversion or straight pieces; the trim really made my hair feel a lot better. I was so eager to wash my hair because I was ready to try something new with my hair: African threading. I saw this video by YouTuber GirlsLoveYourCurls and got so damn excited with how accessible and versatile this technique seemed. Apparently this is also known as

Hair For the Week: Straight Natural (With Ponytail Amusement)

2011-10-22T08:48:00.000-04:00

Good morning folks! So last week I got my hair straightened by none other then SPStyles (she's the only stylist I can always trust to do my hair). And boy, did she tackle my mane! It was washed, conditioned, blow-dried, flat-ironed and trimmed. I've definitely retained length; my hair is actually crawling to the bra-strap area. These pictures aren't official "length shots" or anything, and

Todays Hairstyle: Inspired Natural Grecian Updo/Puff

2011-10-19T16:07:00.003-04:00

Today, while thinking of what to do with yesterday's twist out, I came across this really cute style and decided to give it a try! At first I thought the middle part would look funny on me with my long face shape but I actually like it. Cute, quick, and easy style, I'll say it took me all of 5-10 minutes... Thanks Dominique! On my way to my cousin's dance class now... Peace!

Reflecting on My First Ever "Big Chop"

2011-10-18T19:58:00.001-04:00

I was going through some photos on my facebook page and happened to come across a photo from when I did my very first "Big Chop" back when i was still in cosmetology school in 2008. If you're a regular reader then you may know i'm not particularly a fan of the BC term, as to me the term just sounds horrible and scary, but for the sake of 'Laymen's terms', I'll just call it that today -_- Anyhoo..

What Being Natural Has Really Taught Me

2011-10-16T10:21:00.001-04:00

Up until a couple of years ago, I was that young girl who felt so ugly if my hair wasn't done. My hair was either in box braids or twists, and during the in-between I hid my attempts at wearing my hair loose under a hat or scarf and headed to class. On those days my moods were off and I had to struggle to keep from crying because I thought I was so damn ugly. Whether I was in an exciting

The Young, Curly and Fabulous - Another Curly Perspective

2011-10-14T09:56:00.000-04:00

Please join us in welcoming our newest contributor to YAIS, Ariel. She is a college student hailing from NYC and currently studying Fine Arts in San Francisco. She was featured as a Style Icon at Black Girl Long Hair and between studying and creating her art she will be contributing to the blog a couple of times a month; show her some love! Ariel Art student, poet, visual artist, amateur chef

Twisted and Braided TWA Updo + Fun Makeup!

2011-10-13T23:36:00.001-04:00

Yes, another video, and this one was actually filmed within 6 months of posting, lmfao. I've been sick for the past couple of days with a cold, and not only have I been physically sick, but i've been sick of detangling, single strand knots and dryness, so with my scratchy throat and runny nose, I decided I couldn't take it anymore and got to styling... I had no specific style in mind, although

Styling My Straightened TWA

2011-10-12T22:48:00.000-04:00

So Ladies and Gents, I know this is horrible but I made this video for you all back in February when i straightened and styled my hair and never got to post it... So without any further ado... Enjoy!

Hair For the week: Curly Twists

2011-10-12T22:34:00.000-04:00

So I went from being really lost with how to style my hair to coming up with a style I really like. It's funny- I parted my hair into four sections like usual and started doing two strand twists in the back. When it came to the front half of my hair I had no idea what to do, so I decided to wait till the following morning (Monday) to do something. And here was the outcome: Not to bad right?

Playing with Protective Styling Ideas: TWA Updos

2011-10-09T15:40:00.004-04:00

As most of you can see, I dont protective style much although i'm trying to get back into a better routine of doing so, my problem mostly is that I'm tired of looking the same way, and a lot of other styles just aren't me... I can easily create a lot of twisted and braided styles to wear but with being conscious about my thin hairline/hair and just not liking the overall look.. I tend to lean

What To Do With This Hair of Mine?

2011-10-09T10:59:00.000-04:00

A. B. C. Hey there natural hair enthusiasts! So shots A-C show my general cluelessness about what to do with my hair for the week. It's been clarified, deep conditioned and air-dried in bun (a sleek one I might add, for a 90th birthday party I had to attend yesterday for a relative) and now I'm up this morning and full of energy, with no idea on how to style it. Should I do curl

Bad Comment About Your Natural Hair? "Dust Your Shoulders Off"

2011-10-01T13:23:00.000-04:00

--You're at a party with family you haven't seen in a while. You're loving the way you look and your twist out looks gorgeous. A cousin tells you that you shouldn't be wearing your hair like that because it's upsetting an aunt, showing up with "nappy" hair. --You've just mastered a new hairstyle. You've been practicing it for weeks and finally you've gotten your hair to look amazing. Your

Blue-La-La!

2011-09-27T18:25:00.001-04:00

Well, I will say Fall has sure let us know it's here in NYC... and for some reason, there seems to be something about me and blue this fall. Not a bitter blue, but an optimistically bold blue. I didn't go outside like this... yet. Coincidentally, within the past month I've rinsed my hair blue/black, fell in love with the Nars Outremer eyeshadow (yes, it's blue), and for some reason I channeled

Protective Styling For Natural Hair: The Case For Braids

2011-09-25T10:17:00.000-04:00

As some of you may or may not know, protective styling roughly means a style where your hair is given a "break" from a lot of manipulation and/or daily styling. It protects your ends--the oldest part of your hair--and can be great for reducing breakage which means your hair growth can be preserved. There are many options for protective styling and some naturals are all for it while others are

Embracing Shrinkage With Two-Strand Twists

2011-09-21T21:42:00.000-04:00

It appears now that my hair is arm-pit length and my bangs reach my chin. I'm excited because it felt like my hair wasn't growing and then all of a sudden it has--maybe by the end of the year I'll be creeping to the bra-strap? Guess we'll see... Anyway, last weekend I washed my hair and decided to twist while wet. My hair wasn't sopping wet, but it's change for me because usually I twist on dry

Hair Crush: Mel B. aka Scary Spice!

2011-09-19T12:39:00.000-04:00

I just know that deep down inside everyone, they loved the Spice Girls! I remember the days of jumping on the bed with my cousin, stereo blasting, screaming Spice Up Your Life! I know some of you can relate to always having to be the "black one" whenever you played pretend, me always having to be Scary Spice... or being teased and called Scary Spice, lol. I didn't care though because I loved her

iLoVebeingCoLoRed!

2011-09-14T15:18:00.002-04:00

So again, i was supposed to go out the other night for Fashion Week but this adorable little outfit i pulled together, ended up looking like hot trash by the end of the night so i didn't go :( I was so upset because i put a lot of time and effort into my makeup and look for it to suck but whatever... Color w/ flash Color w/o flash I went to Sephora in search of a new lip color to wear out for

Hair Crush: Yaya DaCosta

2011-09-13T10:22:00.000-04:00

I think I am a decent looking young woman, but if I had to pick a celebrity to look like I can only think of three woman, and one of them is YaYa DaCosta. Like others, I saw her on America's Next Top Model Cycle 3 and was entranced by her beauty. In addition to being a model, she's dabbled in acting on Broadway and in films. I seriously envied her looks and wanted to be as talented and educated (

Relaxers Vs. Naturals IV: Stop the Hate; Remember the Truth

2011-09-12T15:20:00.004-04:00

These days there's so much talk out there about who's truly natural, based on who's been natural their whole life, who has color treated hair, who doesn't use all organic/natural products, and/or whatever other bogus rules people seem to keep coming up with. Who died and made them the Natural Hair Gods who get to decide who is a natural hair puritan and is allowed into the curly gates anyway?

Midnight.

2011-09-10T13:29:00.000-04:00

Originally I wasn't sure if I wanted to participate in Fashion's Night Out, but just in case, and with fall steadily approaching here in NY, I rinsed my hair blue/black to prepare for the weekend. I decided I wasn't really in the mood to do anything for Fashion's Night Out this year, so instead I fashionably met up with a few friends for drinks. Even though I didn't go to any events, it was nice

Low Sleek Side Buns at NYC's Fashion Night Out

2011-09-09T11:57:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I attended some events for NYC's Fashion Night Out with some friends. The city was like one big block party without music in Soho and the West Village. There were sales, gifts, cocktails and fashion shows at various stores. It was cool. While at Loehmann's, I noticed that the models in the fashion show they were having rocked low, sleek side-buns. I thought they were gorgeous. I'm not

STR8.

2011-09-05T16:01:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, using my CHI 44 Iron Guard and Silk Infusion Heat protector spray and serum, I blowdryed and flatironed my hair. I then lightly dusted the ends (even though i can still stand to dust a little more) and took off about an inch at the nape to avoid the afro-mullet look that I refuse to let my hair grow into, which also made my top layers appear a little longer. I silk-wrapped (

Hair for the Week: Side Swept Twist Pin-Up

2011-09-04T09:48:00.000-04:00

I was bored with my hair yesterday and decided that I wanted a protective style. I checked some of the blogs I follow for inspiration and once again, Her Best Hair won me over with the Vacation Updo. What I really loved about it was the idea of the "side-swoop" with twists. I love bangs and side parts so I decided to use this look. Although my style isn't an updo, the style I did does give me

Yesterday's Look: The Asymmetrical TWA Twist- out Bob

2011-09-01T12:15:00.001-04:00

Yesterday some of my friends came to meet up with me and we decided to have lunch at Crepe's On Columbus (Yum! My favorite!) and head to the Museum of Natural History for a day of free browsing. Unfortunately the museum was closed, but it was fun that we got to hang out anyway... took a nice little walk and just chilled. We were playing around snapping flics of each other but I wanted them to

Statements Naturals Are (Probably) Tired of Hearing

2011-08-31T21:51:00.001-04:00

I know I don't speak for all naturals, but I'm really sick and tired of the statements people are making about natural hair. Some of the things people said have me wondering if it's offensive or not; then I get annoyed as to why it's such a statement to just embrace what you have growing from your scalp. Here's some of what I'm tired of hearing: --Being told we need to comb our hair. --Asked

Ponytails: From Broccoli Bands to Coated Bands

2011-08-30T10:17:00.000-04:00

Last night I was preparing my dinner (curry vegetables with garbanzo beans and rice, because you asked) and as I unwrapped a package of fresh broccoli, I took note of the blue rubber band the stalks were held by. I suddenly remembered that I used to use the rubber bands to put my hair in a pony tail back in the day! I know it's because I always had so much hair, but could never find a suitable

How Do You Feel About This?

2011-08-21T00:30:00.004-04:00

Being that I work in a salon now there's undoubtedly always talk about hair going on. I work in a sort of mixed environment which means we also see a sort of mixed clientele, and from what I've seen the stylists who have done "ethnic hair" seem to do a good job at it. I've watched them do really nice blowouts and flatiron finishes on the relaxed black girls who have come into the salon, who seem

Regimen Updates

2011-08-20T16:13:00.000-04:00

Best thing I have learned when it comes to my hair: less is best! In my mission to restore my hair from the dryness and breakage, I have already seen a difference in the last couple of weeks. My hair has got it's shine, it doesn't cough out broken strands, and feels nice to touch. I haven't been doing anything magical either. I cleanse my hair once a week usually with SheaMoisture Moisture

Good Vibes

2011-08-20T11:04:00.001-04:00

Just thought I'd send some cool tunes your way, and check out Damian Marley's Loc's, aren't they amazing?! I love the fact that they're so long yet so neat and well groomed. Enjoy the music and Happy Saturday!

The Naturals on Misfits TV Series

2011-08-16T11:06:00.000-04:00

I don't know if anyone on this side of the pond (in the USA) watches the British TV show Misfits, but thanks to Hulu I do and I'm a huge fan. I'm making my way through season two, and eagerly wait each Monday when Hulu adds a new episode. Anyway, two of the main characters Alisha and Curtis (played by Antonia Thomas and Nathan Stewart-Jarrett respectively) rock kinky-curly hair and (in my humble

Twist-out Results and 2nd Day Hair

2011-08-15T14:39:00.000-04:00

I woke yesterday morning and my hair was still damp so i sat under the dryer for probably another 45 minutes as I drank my coffee and watched Ninja Warrior. Finally when I felt my hair was dry (and it was still actually a little damp) i went to my go to coconut oil for the take down. I took my time, as taking down the 3-strand twist was a little different than taking down a 2-strand twist, but

Experiments in Curlyweaveland + Video Questions

2011-08-13T22:47:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday evening I washed my hair, detangled it, and did 2 cornrows in the front to help blend my hair with the weave hair. I let the back air dry a little and then pineappled it, put my bonnet on and went to bed. It didn't dry by morning time so I left the braids in and went to work. Luckily I thought about it possibly not drying from the night before so I tried to braid the braids in a way

Bantu Knot-Out Side Pin-up

2011-08-13T11:04:00.000-04:00

Since I've been making an effort to wear my hair "stretched out" (so I can continue the search and destroy method of cutting off splits and single strand knots) I stumbled upon doing a bantu-knot out. Both SP and I have done them, and I forgot how much I love 'em. I washed my hair Wednesday night, and let it dry in a bun. On Thursday night I set my bantu-knots with Jane Carter Wrap and Roll

Being Natural DOES NOT Mean You're Enlightened

2011-08-11T16:53:00.000-04:00

I'll admit that I am one of those folks who believe that for women of color, specifically black women, hair isn't just hair. It's a statement. It means something. As much as we wish that it didn't, our hair evokes questions, demands, anger, happiness, relief, explanations, and dismissal. It can shame our family, or show pride in them. Hair isn't just hair and that's a fact. What I've come to

Curly Weave

2011-08-10T02:01:00.000-04:00

In preparation for my weave, I blew out my fro and wore it out for the day as i went to pick up my hair and run a few errands. It's been a few weeks since i blew out my fro and i'm happy to see that it has grown, especially since i just trimmed my hair last week. I parted out the sections of hair i wanted to leave out and twisted them up, then proceeded to braiding the rest. Here's the outcome:

3 steps to TWA Bob-ery!

2011-08-03T17:43:00.001-04:00

SO.... My hair is looking more and more like a bob now... yay! This Bob style was actually discovered accidentally so these are the steps i took, and will continue to use to re-create this look as my hair grows: 1. Wash hair, add leave in conditioner and gel and smooth hair back into 2 buns for drying and stretching. I did my buns in the morning before going to work so i wore them for the

Glam/Rock Fro-Hawk

2011-08-02T23:09:00.002-04:00

So since I'm working in a salon now and my hair has gotten a little longer, making it a little easier for styling (at times), I've been trying to do my best with switching it up and trying new styles, on top of trying to dress stylish in all black everyday, which for me is like uhg. I'm a colorful person so dressing in black feels very limiting, so I've just tried to buy what i would normally

Hair Lately....

2011-08-01T22:23:00.004-04:00

So here's a little update on what's been going on with her majesty:A month ago, i learned i can fit her into 2 pigtails/buns; I'd definitely call that a new milestone! A blowout from 2 weeks ago pulled back with a headband <======Fresh out the shower and then twisted out the next day (Her majesty was 2-strand flat twisted into 4 big twists with a little conditioner left in and Olive Oil

Natural Updo: Twisted Side Bun

2011-07-27T11:24:00.000-04:00

I experimented with a new style this week. To be honest when I first started doing my hair (sitting in bed no less) I had no idea what I was doing. But this once I parted my hair in preparation for something, I was looking through some blogs and found myself inspired by Tia of Her Best Hair by her Flat Twist out with Braids style. I did a few things differently, but that was the style I was

hey.

2011-07-25T02:36:00.002-04:00

Umm... Where do i start after not posting for over a month? For one, I have to agree with Curly Film Chick, being busy has really put a major strain on Her Majesty, from the inside and out. I know i've got some 'splainin' to do... In all this time i've been to North Carolina and back and have also been employed at a Scott J Aveda Salon here in NYC! I've also been super busy working full days on

Being Healthy is Not All About Hair

2011-07-24T11:23:00.000-04:00

Confession time folks, I've noticed that my hair lately has not been in top shape and I know that it's in direct correlation with my insides not being in the best of shape either. For the past month or so I was getting a little lazy with hair care and very lazy with my health. So of course I got really sick. Being sick is always a major indicator for me that it's time to take a break. As I am

Time To Stretch The Hair Out

2011-07-15T12:16:00.000-04:00

My wash and gos have been great but I've been taking a backseat with them. I've noticed an increase in single strand knots. So this past week after washing and conditioning, I put my hair in some medium sized twists. I had been moisturizing with a new favorite, Vatika Oil. And I had been snipping off the single strand knots/splits. Yesterday I decided to actually rock a twist-out! I never like

Tips on Curbing Product-Junky-ism

2011-07-06T12:29:00.000-04:00

A lot of folks who are "going natural" or just discovering how to care properly care for their hair succumb to being a product junky, where you buy a ton of products to try out. Some might be looking for their "holy grail"--the product that will solve all your curly hair problems. Trying products is obviously a good way to figure out what your hair likes in combination with various techniques.

Clarifying Methods

2011-07-05T10:49:00.000-04:00

At times, your hair may start feeling a little "gunky" or it may look a little dull. The products you normally use may not seem to work. Your scalp could be itchy and dry; it might just seem overall unmanageable. It might be time to clarify to remove product build up from your hair. Here are some methods/products to choose from: Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Commonly referred to as "AVC rinse" in

My Wash And Go Adventures (Picture heavy post)

2011-07-01T21:23:00.000-04:00

Hair enthusiasts! How have you been? Apologies for the scarce posting but SP and I have been really busy...we both live up to our namesakes in a sense (hint: SPStyles, and Curly Film Chick #doingwork). So what's my mane been up to? Well let me tell you I've been really lazy. All the hair minus time equals neglect. Or maybe not as much neglect, but I haven't really been doing much styling. My

Natural Hair Summer Styling: Updos

2011-06-19T13:48:00.001-04:00

Hey there folks! As someone with a lot of hair, I sometimes dread having to do it, especially when it's hot. When my hair was shorter (not exactly TWA short, but shrunk up above my neck) summer hair was much easier. But as a little heads-up to my short-haired folks whose goal is to have length, do know that it will be a challenge, although that's not necessarily a bad thing. This weekend, I set

Gushing Over New Products: Shea Moisture and TRESemme

2011-06-11T19:57:00.000-04:00

I've been itching to try new products for a while but didn't know where to go to first. Product hunting is overwhelming am I right? Anyway, earlier this week after work (at around 11:30pm smh!) I wandered into Duane Reade to just browse. Then I saw TRESemme, and I've been chatting with the good folks at the CurlyNikki forum who had mentioned how nice the product was, and since it was on sale I

Hair Crush: Annie Ilonzeh

2011-06-08T00:49:00.001-04:00

(Ugh!! I dream for a curly fro like this some day!!!) I don't remember what I was watching honestly, but I know I was flipping through the channels and came across this gorgeous head of curls. It was some award show, so luckily i got her name and started on my Google quest to identify the coif. Annie Ilonzeh, gorgeous girl and gorgeous hair! It appears she's mostly wearing her natural texture in

My Color Relapse and the perfect twist-out formula

2011-06-07T00:00:00.005-04:00

Okay... so i know i went through the whole cutting my hair off because it was color damaged last year, but i dyed my hair like a million times in a short period of time last year and I can't live without color!!!! I realize that probably for the rest of my life I will be addicted to color, so instead of fighting it, im just going to make good, sure choices about my color and take very good care

On May 20th, I...

2011-06-06T20:11:00.002-04:00

....straightened my hair! Yes, stupid to do on short natural hair in New York's humid spring but hey, I got the itch and also needed to trim my ends a little bit more so i did anyway. Remember when i mentioned that I straighted my hair recently back in my Side Puff! post? Well this is what i was talking about... nothing too special, especially thanks to the humidity so it was only semi-straight

Hair At Union Square

2011-06-04T10:44:00.000-04:00

This is us yesterday after shopping a bit and devouring Chipotle. Curly Film Chick's Hair: poofy, not really detangled, undefined braid out. (Which really means the night before, I got home from work and threw my hair in some big plaits before passing out.) SPStyles: Mo-Hawk twist-out that I was lusting after as if I didn't know her and never saw her hair before LOL. (We're going to try and

Hair Crush: Janet Mock

2011-05-25T11:55:00.000-04:00

I think I found my hair crush in writer and journalist Janet Mock. She rocks the big hair I love and those colors...it looks like chocolate and caramel colors. As soon as I grow out these fuschia hi-lights I'm going to copy her. By then my hair will should be longer too. As a side note: it came out a few weeks ago that Janet Mock was born a male. It's been met with a lot of the usual crappy

Style for the Week: Flat Twists Pigtails

2011-05-25T10:34:00.000-04:00

First things first, things have gotten quite busy on my end and I realized I haven't posted in about two weeks. I wanted to, but I've been exhausted. It's been a year since I graduated college and I recently got my first full time job (the kind with benefits!) roughly in my area of study and it's a rather hectic field. Also my hours are a little strange and I get home slightly before midnight.

The Style Chameleon and Staying True to Oneself

2011-05-24T14:15:00.002-04:00

Reading through so many natural blogs, it is apparent that many naturals have become very biased when it comes to natural hair. Watching different women's journeys and just thinking of my own, i could never be biased towards natural hair (okay, maybe a little); My main concern is healthy hair. Every once in a while, I won't lie, I do get the relaxer itch... just a small notion of what it would

Side Puff!

2011-05-24T13:06:00.003-04:00

I planned to go out on Saturday night for my friend's birthdays but had no idea how i was going to wear my hair. I straightened my hair earlier in the week (Yes! I said straightened... I'll get to that a little later) and the humidity and the fact that it got caught in the rain caused the ends to puff and frizz up. I wasn't sure what i was going to do with my hair but i decided to get in the

Minimal time styling

2011-05-16T20:20:00.002-04:00

I've been so busy in this past month that i really haven't had much time for my hair. I usually wash my hair 2 to 3 times a week but lately its been more like once every 5-7 days. Having such little time for myself, i've really been learning how to prolong my styles. I blew out my hair last Thursday and i've been keeping it stretched by sleeping with it up in a puff or putting it into 4 small

Style Longevity (The Post Blogger Ate)

2011-05-16T16:16:00.002-04:00

Long, Long ago... a week and a half ago... lol I rollerset my hair about a week and a half ago and I've really been able to do a lot with my hair. I'm seeing growth and i feel like i'm getting into a few more styling options which i'm loving! About 2 days after wearing the 2 strand twisted updo, i got tired of the style because as it was nice, the style just really wasn't me... I washed my hair

Length checks 5/13

2011-05-13T14:45:00.002-04:00

I blew out my hair 2 days ago and decided to dust my ends because it is definitely about that time and my ends were letting me know so. I trimmed very litttle in most areas and a little more in others if i felt it needed it but nothing drastic. I know i could stand to trim a little more but im being length greedy right now since my birthday is in about a month and i think i will be protective

GRRRR BLOGGER!!!

2011-05-13T14:13:00.000-04:00

So i know some of you had to see that i posted the night before last but then mysteriously, it goes missing!!! Come to find out over @ CurlyNikki that Blogger had a breakdown and was wiping posts and things of the sort... grrrr!!! Curse you blogger! I feel like crying because i've had so little time and i know i wont have time to post again until like sunday and i like stayed up just to post that

Thoughts About My Straightened Natural Hair

2011-05-10T10:05:00.000-04:00

So my hair is straight again and it has been for a week. This is probably going to be the last time until the end of the summer months. Although it isn't bone straight this time, my hair is about 2 inches from my bra-strap (or BSL) and I'm excited. excuse the paleness from the bright computer screen The thought of having really long braids draping my shoulders is an exciting reality.

The Traveling Natural (District of Columbia Edition)

2011-05-09T18:44:00.000-04:00

So I realized I never reported about the status of my hair when I went to the District of Columbia (Washington) a couple of weeks ago. I didn't do anything special. It was a busy week and I had zero time to wash before I left. But I packed coconut oil, Oyin Whipped Pudding, and some bobby pins and went on my way. Since I took the bus I put some plaits in my hair, and then when I arrived at my

Henna, Cassia & Bentonite Clay-What's the difference?

2011-05-05T11:06:00.001-04:00

Reader email from Tamara: Hello,I am new to your blog, as I just found it today. But you have a lot of useful information, thank you.I have a question about the difference between Henna, Cassia and Bentonite...As in what they do for your hair and or the pros/cons of each one. Also I have hair that is just beyond twa length and im not sure when to start adding any of those that I named to my

Setting Some New Length Goals

2011-05-03T04:48:00.003-04:00

For those who don't know, i've never really had long hair. I've seen pictures of myself as a child with shrunken twists, afro puffs and braids that indicated that i had hair that was at least shoulder length, but never anything much longer. I decided to go completely natural about 2 years ago when i started to transition. I was one of those people who believed my hair just didn't grow past

Twisted Updo

2011-05-02T13:36:00.002-04:00

I started to pre-poo last night using Wild Growth Oil to massage my scalp and started to play with my hair because the oil made it so soft. I decided to twist a piece of hair in the front just to see how it would hang and realized that it looked really cute because my hair was still sort of stretched from the rollerset and twist out. I didn't add any product, nor did i comb or part, just grabbed

Natural Hair Weekly Routine

2011-05-01T14:47:00.000-04:00

Hey folks! So I finally decided to make a video about my weekly routine. If you've been reading this blog for a while you'll know that I use curlformers to stretch out my hair. I actually didn't like the way the set came out, but the point was just to show the routine. I show how I pre-treat my hair, the sections, how I deep condition and detangle, as well as how I put in the curl formers.