Noire Naturals Product Review!

Great day, curly-pies! So even though I am ringing in the new year by training my curls to dine on a two-product regimen (more on that later) I've been trying out some pretty curlicious gems over the past weeks. Er, months. (Don't judge me). I am tasking my spirals to a "product insanity" workout in 2012, meaning conditioner only. PERIOD. Yeah....we'll see what the end of that story brings. In the meantime, I'm sharing with you some awesome goodies that your curls may just fall for!

NOIRE NATURALS: This new brand was envisioned by one of my favorite little ladies, Ashleigh Victoria (pictured above), who was one of the first beauties to be featured on The Frizzness! I must say at a mere 21 years old, we should all be praising with her for her drive & ability to not just chase after, but accomplish her dreams! (Sitting down from my standing "O"). But what we're really about is the product/performance, yes? So let's go!

Oh La La Hair Cleansing Elixir: My curls really enjoyed this cleanser. See, though my coils are extreme & tight, they are very easy to cleanse -without having to section. So if they get tangled during a wash, I KNOW it's the product. The consistency is very thin, unlike regular shampoo, & I did not detect a scent of any kind. The Oh La La flowed easily through my spirals, so there was no added work or forcing my hands through knot-ville. (Very good foreshadowing of the rest of the line). The true testimony is the fact that my curls did not feel stripped following use!

C'est Mangnifique Rinse or Remain Conditioner: Love, love, love! This conditioner is packed with various butters & essential oils that truly smell glorious as soon as you open the bottle! Now, the consistency may throw some of us curlies off at first; there is a high level of shea butter in the cream, which definitely solidifies as it sits in the bottle. My sample, however did include a note stating for best results, submerge the bottle in a cup of hot water for 2/3 minutes (don't put the bottle in the microwave, dolls!) & the product will loosen, allowing you to pour it out for your stands to enjoy. Which mine totally soaked up immediately, like I'd been depriving them of moisture or something! Since I no longer protective style per se, I just coated my coils & let them go. I like the definition the conditioner gave me & I believe I had just a tad less shrinkage than normal.

J'adore Curl Defining Jelly: Anything that gives my curls elongation is alright with me, because I happen to love huge hair! So Now although this product is called "jelly" it's clear & thin, with a little traveling a really long way to to satisfy whatever level of hold you're seeking. I rock much frizz, so I added some extra to as I smoothed it over my coils & went on about my business. But really, there is not much of this needed; just a swipe to finish off your 'do & you're good to go. So there you have it, Curly-Pies! What I like best about Noire Naturals is the line is definitely budget frfiendly (I'm big on that!) and I was left with pretty big, soft, defined & bouncy hair! Please feel free to visit the website: noirenaturals.com to check out their other products & tell them The Frizzness sent you! There's 2 sides to every Frizz, natural dancer (Hey, Loves! I was provided this product for review, however I was not paid for this or any other product review on The Frizzness....)

INFLUENSTER Holiday Box: NYC Liquid Lip Shine Review!

It's a great day for beauty! So, I'm part of an awesome program that allows me to bounce some pretty cool products off my curls, skin, nails, tummy....you name it! It's called INFLUENSTER, & I am beyond excited because I just received the holiday gift box packed with beauty product goodness! I'm about to start rolling out reviews of all the products I received...can you see my happy face? Watch out, now! First up: NYC Liquid Lip Shine:

Easily my favorite product in the box, because I love lippies! And this is some yummy, lip-quenching wonderfulness. As a bonus, NYC is one brand that puts the chic in our faces while keeping some extra pennies in our pockets. Now, why do I adore this gloss? #1) - Like its name, #582 Nude York City delivers on the shine! Since I love playing up my eyes with bold colors, this lipgloss has a jazzy, yet subtle way of helping me to tone it down a bit. The shine lasted for hours, so that had me set on "happy" all day! Better yet, this color will wear well against any skin tone. #2) - It smells....sweet. Not fruity, and I can't quite put my finger on it, but it's pleasant. We definitely don't want any stank on us, so the scent suited me just fine. #3) - It feels heavenly on my kisser! No goop, gunk, or muck - all of which I can't stand to pucker up with. Have you ever tried something that felt like straight mud on your mouth? Uuughhh... just, no. But I digress. The gloss has a light feel that's barely there; my smoochers totally roll out the welcome mat for such a great feeling! So there you have it, beauty-pies! With 19 shades of glossy yumminess available,and prices I can afford (I am a bargain princess to my heart) I'm going to try to rock every shade of NYC's Liquid Lip Shine. Tell me, have you tried it? Thanks for the awesomeness, NYC! (*Hey loves, this product was provided free of charge to me for testing, however I am not paid for this or any other product review on The Frizzness).

A Curl's Best Friend!

Hey,Curly-Pies! Please pardon my extended break, but my coils & I ended up starring in my hubby's play, which left me with little time on my hands - other than keeping on top of that script! And when I say my curls starred right along with me, I mean just that! (Darn near stole the show, ha ha!) I've never received so so many compliments on my mane, ya'll! And all I did was a deep conditioning treatment early that week, let my strands soak up some extra conditioner & topped it off with Shea Moisture Curling Souffle; I left it in a pineapple for two days, & by the day of the play.....BAM! Those little suckers were stretched & poppin'! I've never had so many folk grabbing at my mane before! I have to admit, it did look different than normal. Which is why the kool-aid grin on my grill was tentative. I mean, what was everybody trying to say about the way my noggin normally looks, huh? LOL....no worries. I actually enjoyed the extra attention. SO much so, that I forgot to get a picture of my bangin 'do. Whomp, whomp...that's the melodic sounds of EPIC FAIL. You know how I do it. Anywho, I am currently still growing & loving my cols. It's been a great ride & as I approach 11 months, I'm thinking of a way to celebrate my one year hair-aversary. Thoughts, curlies? Oh, & I'm on board Mahogany Curls' Curly Girl Challenge, too. It's very intricate, so check out her Facebook page for more details. That said, I have alot of reviews to crank out, so get ready! And as we approach the new year, I resolve to continue to keeping it simple! My coils are loving me for it! What are you doing with your 'do in 2012? There's 2 sides to every Frizz, natural dancer

A Curly Head Start!

Just a thought: The longer I get into my natural groove, I notice I'm not always diggin' my refreshed coils. I need at least a good 3-4 days for the product to kiss my frizz & my 'fro to swell WIDE & BIG, lol! So how many days in advance does it take for you to claim curly cuteness?   ;) There's two sides to every FRIZZ, natural dancer

"Lord, What Happened to the Man I Married?!"

Hey, Curlies! So for all my Dallas/Ft. Fort Worth Area Curlfriends, I'd love to see you come out & see my curly hubby's gospel stage production, "Lord, What Happened to the Man I Married?!" What happens when everyone around you seems to have changed....until you realize it's really YOU?

This one's a doozy, ya'll & stars some of Texas' most awesome talent! Who knows....you may see an appearance from my own coils on the big stage! December 10, 2011 God's Tabernacle of Deliverance 1020 E. Pleasant Run, DeSoto TX 5 pm....SHARPIE Tickets $13 For more info: contact yours truly or nonstop.prod@yahoo.com I'd love to meet you!!!!! There's two sides to every FRIZZ, natural dancer

Kicks For Christ....A Thanksgiving Blessing!

Gobble, gobble Curlie-Pies! It's a great day to be a curly; I pray everyone's Thanksgiving was safe, relaxed & BLESSED! I gotta share a MAJOR blessing with you all: Christmas came early to my dance company, OSP! Ok so last week, I posted a dancer's prayer of Thanksgiving on Facebook. I just don't want us to ever take this GOD given gift for granted; our feet deliver good news, & we have to constantly/consistently give thanks for being able to speak through such a powerful art form. Anywhoo....our humble little ensemble is one of the most requested dance ministries in the state of Texas. As such, we were literally danced outta our shoes!!!!!! I mean little peep holes & all; just not cute at all. I was just about to start a shoe drive for sponsors to put each dancer into a new pair of kicks, but GOD sent a couple of angels (in the form of a husband & wife) who volunteered to purchase shoes for EVERY dancer in the ministry! (INSERT SHOUTING MUSIC RIGHT HERE)

Before you get to stop, drop & rolling - It gets even better! See, said couple is from out of state, has never met the girls, or even seen us dance. But because they met me while I was still rollin' in mamma's tummy, they wanted to do this for me to say how proud they are of what my husband & I are doing with the kiddos. Tear. For real, I cried - A LOT when I was told of this blessing. It only came from GOD Himself, & I would be remiss if I didn't give Him the glory every opportunity I get! Seriously, there was a need that had to be met & I knew my girls couldn't afford the shoes but truly need them. And GOD immediately supplied. See, they don't have to dance but they do. Without murmuring, without complaining, & most of all with the joy of the Lord in their hearts. And even though they don't dance for reward, Our Father gave them an awesome reward for their faithfulness. God blesses us when we least expect it; We've been told many times that God uses us to change someone's life after we dance....this time, someone changed OURS. My message to you? Hang in there a bit longer, Beloved, because you don't want to give up before you receive everything GOD has for you. Your labor is not in vain; joy truly does come in the morning!!!!! He's awesome. He's amazing. He's a wonder. .....and He's our Love. And I love all of YOU, too! So now, onto what's already my best Christmas ever! I'm off to listen to what tehnically is one of the most depressing Christmas tunes in this (or any) lifetime, "The Christmas Shoes." Have you heard it? I won't spoil the ending, but uh....yeah. Jingle Bells it is not. Somehow, it has an entire new meaning for me this year. Blessings - and hugs today, natural dancer

Introducing Hair By Tippi Shorter!

As one of the most sought after hair-care specialists in the entertainment industry, she has maintained the beautiful coifs of Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson, Rhianna, Beyonce, Kelly Rowland & many more! Now, she’s introducing the next wave of hair nourishment products, using super ingredients that breathe new life into damaged tresses, protects thick, course or chemically treated hair from environmental stress & restores elasticity. And on top of all that, she’s a huge fan of Curly Nikki! She’s Tippi Shorter, & she’s prepared to bring the salon experience to our homes!

CN.Com: Tell us about your own hair journey growing up. TS: Well, I’ve always used my own hair as an accessory! Back in the day, I wanted to try every trend out there. You know, the era of “Yo MTV Raps”; I wanted styles like Mary J. Blige, Salt N Pepa…I even wanted the Kim Fields “Tootie” ‘do. Mom would take me for a rollerset once a month, BUT I wasn’t allowed to get a haircut. So there was a lot of pinning & tucking going on. Ultimately, my hair was an expression of how I was feeling. CN.com: You’ve been noted as a “beauty genius” by Elle Magazine for two years! Was it always your goal to help women enhance their beauty? TS: I am a HUGE fan of Elle, & I was truly honored by that! In school, I was always the one who made sure everyone was together: the clothes, hair & makeup. I’ve always wanted to help women with how they feel about themselves on the outside. Personally, no matter what’s going on around me, looking good & knowing how I appear to other people makes me feel better. CN.com: Please dish on what it was like being the first African-American spokesperson for both Pantene & Avon! TS: AWESOME! 10 people were interviewed back when Pantene was launching their Relaxed & Natural line; I received a call saying that Pantene loved me & that was it. I’d already been a fan of their products since beauty school; it was what I could afford. I STILL go back to it when I’m in a crunch because I know it works. I really love the products. As for Avon, I was invited to come to the Avon store & lost my mind, ha ha! I love their products as well, especially the Lotus Shield – it prevents hair from swelling in high humidity. I work with them during Fashion Week; I am a part of their Global Ambassador Styling Team. CN.com: Who was your first celebrity client? TS: Foxy Brown. I met her at a photo shoot for Essence…but she brought her own stylist to the shoot. I came highly recommended, though and she used me. Eventually she became a client of mine. CN.com: You stand on a platform supporting health before style. What is your beauty philosophy? TS: Healthy scalp, healthy hair = amazing style. I never sacrifice style for health. The health of your hair should always come first. CN.com: What’s one of the strangest requests you’ve had from a client & how did you respond? TS: I had a client who kept getting compared to another client of mine, so she wanted a change. But every picture she showed up with was of the other person that she didn’t want to look like! So, not really strange but contradictory to what she said she did and did not want. CN.com: You must be ecstatic about your new product line, “Hair By Tippi Shorter.” Please tell us about it. TS: I am super excited about it! I launched it in August; there’s been a huge explosion of curly hair products on the market, but where are the products for girls who like to wear their hair straight? I texturize my hair twice a year after getting sucked into a Brazillian Blowout. It looked great for about a month, but then started shedding in globs & clogged my drain in the shower every time I washed it! With “HBTS” I wanted to give options for women who wanted to wear their hair either straight or curly. It’s dedicated to SMOOTH hair & keep it smooth for the longest it can be. CN.com: What’s the best way ladies can utilize the product line? TS: There are eight products in the line; the shampoo, leave in & serum are evenly yoked. The curly cream completes the system. There are two leave ins, one for fine hair & one for thick hair. The sleek serum can be used for curly or straight hair. And the pomade to control those edges. I’d say get it all, try it all….but that’s not for everyone’s pocketbook. “Hair By Tippi Shorter” is not a style driven line; it’s health & performance driven. It also helps reduce frizz. It’s all about the needs of your hair. CN.com: The product line is very affordable, putting it in the reach of general consumers. What do you say about the pricing? TS: I wanted to create something that would be competitive with other products on the market with great ingredients & without sacrificing quality. In 2012, I am also introducing an enhanced product line. I can’t give too much away, but it will be a different price point & would be available at Ulta & Sephora. CN.com: What are some of the favorite “HBTS” products of both relaxed & curly heads? TS: The Glaze Leave In – it preps tresses for straight or curly styles without being heavy. The Serum, Pomade & Flex Styling Cream are favorites for curlies. CN.com: What’s one of the worst things a woman can do to her tresses? TS: Abusing heat appliances. Applying deep treatments and restorative treatments will help restore the hair back to health. CN.com: What’s one of your best kept hair secrets? TS: If I told….it wouldn’t be a secret, ha ha! CN.com: You’re wildly successful in an industry where success does not come easy. What advice can you offer to readers following their own dreams? TS: Find a mentor. Then actively be around them; l I truly do believe that great minds think alike. You can learn a lot from being around people with great minds. CN.com: What’s next for Tippi Shorter? TS: Rolling out the next phase of hair styling products and tools. And being the best wife & mom I can be! CN.com: Where can our readers find you on the web? TS: I’m starting a healthy hair revolution! You can follow me on Facebook & Twitter (Tippi Shorter); I do lots of giveaways & contests….follow me!

What Have I Been Up To? Why, dancing of course!

Good day, Curlie-Pies! I wanted to drop in for a non-interview type post to let you all know what's going on in my little universe. What a time it's been! God has truly been blessing our dance ministry, so my schedule has been tighter than the plaits mom used to put in my head as a youngster! Come on, ya'll know you'd get greased up real good, then get those tight pigtails (that's what we called them back in the day) pulling your eyes straight back into an instant face-lift, ha ha! Face so tight, we could barely speak. Ah...those were the days. I digress. As I was saying, God has been super good to Ordered Steps Productions. I've been teaching dance workshops, boot camps & we've been booked every weekend! I just can't say how much it means to me, but what is most special is that people are testifying that OSP changed something in their lives after seeing us minister in dance. They say they see true worship & God working through us. For that, I am eternally grateful. With all the public viewings of my little coilies, I've been pretty much playing it straight in the styling department. No room for error when you're about to go up before hundreds of people, you know? Gotta do what works, which right now happens to be Shea Butter, Care Free Curl (more on that later) & MAYBE conditioner only styling. Not to mention, my body has been TIRED. So styling sessions are minimal, but still a part of my world. Last night, the group attended a tech rehearsal to set lights/staging for the South Dallas Dance Festival we are participating in this weekend. The sound tech told me my mane looked "really cool & well kept." That made me feel like all is well with my curls. All is well. So there will be updates coming your way shortly. I've reached my ninth month natural (yay!), been choreographing and writing a lot. I've even been blessed to have articles published by The Coil Review & Curly Nikki! When I was a kid, I thought I wanted to be a famous journalist. Now I realize this is my calling. Isn't it funny how GOD changes our plans? But He's worked everything out in a mightier way than I ever could have! All that to say, never let anyone/anything deter you from your dreams! You've come too far for God to leave you & His Word says you'll never be forsaken by Him, yes? I don't know who this is for, but I dare say we serve an incredible GOD....and YOU are living proof! REFUSE TO BE DEFEATED!!!!!

In continual praise, natural dancer

Introducing Mara Hruby!

A single word comes to mind when being introduced to Mara Hruby: Enlightened. So enlightened, that last year, the young Indie-Soul singer with an angelic voice released her debut EP “From Her Eyes” – an incredible, soul stirring collection of re-envisioned cover songs….for free. The response to this eclectic songstress, her effortless style, engaging voice & calming spirit has been overwhelming. She’s simply one of those people who make you feel happy after speaking with her. ……And we’re just getting to know her.

Tell us about you: where you’re from, how long you’ve been singing….we even heard you dance! MH: I’m from Oakland, CA; I’ve never lived anywhere else. I LOVE the Bay Area! It’s wonderful & cultured & full of life. I’ve been singing since I was very young, but I’ve been professionally singing about 2-3 years now. I’ve always loved music. Everything it did to me, everything it meant to me….I ADORE it. Tell us about your dance experience. MH: I danced for seven years as part of the New Style Motherlode Dance Company. But, it goes back to my love for music – the music moved me, literally, to dance, ha ha! It’s funny though because about 6 months ago my mother found a letter my pre-school teacher wrote to me. It said: “Never stop singing; you’ll change the world with your voice!” The whole singing thing as a career is still new to me, but it makes me happy. Cover songs are not easy! Comparisons are inevitable, but on your EP “From Her Eyes” you’ve refashioned familiar music in such a way that they are embraced as completely original. Where do you draw your inspiration from? MH: It is hard! I drew my inspiration from the pure love I have for music and the power it holds. The artists that I covered, they are phenomenal to me, so it was a tribute more so. I didn’t want it to be imitation; it was about how the songs made me feel. I wanted to portray those feelings through the music. Jamiroquai. Al Green. Mos Def. “From Her Eyes” puts a classically modern spin on hit tunes sung by male artists. Such a bold move. Why? MH: It was a challenge. I wanted people to know my perspective as a woman. Women are powerful & there are so many things we are capable of, but we’re viewed differently. It was important to me to give my perspective on the stories told by those men to display my powerful sensitivity. Tell us about your new video, “Character.”

MH: It was so much fun! I got the chance to work with Melinda James of About Her Films. We shot the video in my home, which is what I call “The Attic of Love” lol! It’s the second video shot at my home, the first was “Stereolab (Lose Myself)”. I wanted to show a side of myself that was personal. People (in videos) show themselves in such a “done up” way rather than show the process of getting to what you want to be the final product. I wanted to show all the things that make me happy: writing, creativity, music, cars (that’s my fathers car I’m driving in the video, so that’s a big deal for me), and being around people. Things that are involved in my normal life….that’s what I wanted to show. You easily reflect an elegant 1940’s flavor that you carry so well! There’s an enviable sense of ownership in your personal style. Tell us about it. MH: The 1940’s & 1950’s are my favorite era as far as beauty, glamour, fashion & how people carry themselves. I started collecting vintage dresses four years ago. I love being able to go to a thrift/vintage store and find a beautiful dress that fits well and tells a story! I love dresses that drive you to want to know what it has seen and lived through. Clothes back then were well crafted, tailored & built to last. Now, we have disposable, “fast food” clothing.

Now, our readers are going to flip about that gorgeous head of hair! Can you tell us about your hairstory, & how you maintain your beautiful tresses? MH: (Editor’s note – Mara is extremely joyful upon hearing this question; her voice is literally dancing!) No one has ever asked me about my hair before! It’s exciting! I haven’t always embraced my curly hair, which is sad, I know. I wanted to have hair like my mother, who had bone straight hair. But my hair has always been wild and curly. It took me quite a while to finally accept and love my hair for what it naturally was.

WOW…what an amazing testimony! MH: I cut my hair off in junior high. For some reason, my long hair became the topic of conversation & criticism & ultimately a source of insecurity for me. I didn’t think that hair was supposed to define someone’s character, but for some reason people judged me. People would evaluate what kind of person I was based on the texture of my hair. They would say “Oh, she got that good hair…she thinks she’s better than us” and it would really hurt my feelings. Really?! Really. MH: Yes. I was so frustrated with all attention and focus and mean comments, I cut my hair short – like Halle Berry short! I did it so people would stop talking, but that only spawned MORE criticism. I felt it was a stupid decision – changing my appearance for other people. You’re who you are for a reason, and for that you are beautiful. What were some of your hair mishaps? MH: I wore my hair short for the rest of junior high; in high school, I started growing it back out & by the time I graduated it was down to my shoulders. I dyed it….A LOT through that whole short hair time period. I came to realize that I had been expressing a lot through my hair as a form of my creativity. And I finally wanted to do what made ME happy, which was let go of my fear and act on my dreams. So how long have you been natural? MH: I’ve been fully natural for the last 5-6 years now. And I haven’t dyed my hair since 2007. I love my hair now, I really truly embrace it! It looks incredibly healthy! What do you do to take care of those smiling curls? MH: I try not to straighten my hair too much or apply too much heat to it, except for when I style it for my shows. (I use heat protectors for that; Pureology’s Colour Stylist Heat Spray). I try to use natural products because I don’t want to put too much “gunk” in my hair. Right now, I use Organics Olive Oil Creamy Aloe Shampoo because I wanted a gentle and more natural cleanser. To condition in the shower, I use the Dove Intensive Repair line, either the conditioner for heat protection or moisture. Once my hair is washed, I scrunch in Pure Aloe Vera gel while my hair is wet, my favorite kind is the Aloe Vera Gel from Trader Joe’s. It’s a great way to seal in moisture and give great shine to your hair. Four months ago, I started using Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk alternating it with the Shea Moisture Yucca & Aloe Volumizing Conditioner because I wanted to be proactive in taking better care of my hair. Shea Moisture is a good friend of mine! I use it after I use the Aloe Vera Gel, and then I scrunch my hair dry with a towel. After those steps I let it air dry or I use a diffuser if I’m in a rush. Even though my hair visually is thick, the individual strands are very thin and fine, so I prefer to use products that won’t weigh it down and make it oily. But right now, I adore the Shea Moisture products… they are my favorite! OMG, mine, too!!!! I love the Curl & Style Milk! So how would you describe your hair type? MH: (laughing) I just learned there were different names for hair types! I never knew! My hair is thin/fine yet big & full! I think that makes me between a 3a and 3b. To be honest, I feel I’ve been blessed to have a really simple routine. It’s very easy to maintain and keep healthy, but I have to wash my hair about every 3 days because it gets oily quickly. I always look at someone with similar textures to mine to see how they care for theirs. But it’s really trial & error. I have to find what suits me best. So you don’t venture out into protective styling? MH: I read the Corinne Bailey Rae interview, it was so informative! I’ve never done a braid out, twisting or anything like that. But I will smooth my wet hair into a ponytail, twist it into a tight bun & when it dries, I take it down & shake it out. Lol, that’s what we call a “bun out!” MH: Oh, really? There’s a name for everything! That’s why I love the natural hair community…and it’s about time! Women of color, we go through a lot with our hair. It’s a process. And there’s a lot of insecurity that goes along with our hair. But natural hair is so beautiful; I hope the trend never goes away! Are there any products you haven’t tried that you’d like to give a test run on your curls? MH: It blows my mind how many natural products there are! But natural products can be pretty pricey. My goal is to use Bumble & Bumble products for my washing and conditioning because their products are wonderful, but they are sooo expensive! I like to be smart with my dollars, so anything I try has to be cost efficient for the pocket! You sing, you dance, you take awesome care of your hair. But you also make beautiful hand-crafted jewelry & scarves! MH: Yes I do! I even sell them at my shows. I’ve always loved being crafty. I feel inspired and I just go out and find resources/materials so I can create. I just go with my intuition. It’s just my way of showing more creativity. (Ed’s note - Mara’s handmade goods are sold through her website Marahruby.com under “Merch” or MaraHruby.bigcartel.com) You’re planning to release an album of original songs written by yourself in 2012. What story do you want listeners to receive from your recordings? MH: Well, I can’t tell people how to feel and I don’t want to, but I want to inspire them to think about what the song is trying to communicate. I always pray people realize the passion I put into my music. I want people to know I really love what I do. I’m genuine and truthful & try to display what comes naturally. You’re right in the middle of seeing your dreams come true. How do you feel? MH: I feel honored, humbled, flattered & elated….this is something I’ve worked really hard at. It can be grueling at times, & there is the realization of being a tormented artist. But I’m so happy people are taking in my music the way they are. I can’t wait to keep going, & go on tour. I truly love what I do! What’s next for you? MH: Finishing up my album for the 2012 release & releasing two more music videos! I’m also going to be playing 11/15 in New York, 11/16 in Philly & 11/17 in DC. My main focus right now is finishing the album, but I’m forever going to put out visuals! What would you like to leave our readers with? MH: I’d say the most important lesson I’ve learned is to live for yourself and what you believe in. We are in charge of our own destiny. Go for what you love and believe in your natural talents! Catch Mara Hruby on the Night With A Muse Tour next week: New York: 11/15 Philly: 11/16 DC: 11/17 For ticket information or to learn more about Mara, connect with her on the internet: Http://MaraHruby.com Http://MaraHruby.bandcamp.com Http://twitter.com/MaraHruby Http://facebook.com/MaraHruby

Getting Down To Frizzness: Beyonce Dancer Ashley Everett!

I was so excited to chat with this young lady, who kind of doesn't need an introduction because her exquisite afro is familiar to millions of Beyonce fans, especially after being featured in the “Single Ladies” video! Chorus after of chorus of “Who is that?!” rang around the world when this beauty started burning the dance floor! She is incredibly fierce onstage, jaw-droppingly stunning,

casually funny....and a really cool girl! Ok, I'm gushing a bit, but it's not every day we get to speak with one of our famous hair crush's, right? If you don't already know her, it's just a short time before you will: dancer, performer & Beyonce employee Ashley Everett is Naturally Glamorous!

You are an AMAZING dancer! How long have you been dancing?
AE: I've been dancing my whole life! I started ballet at age 2; I was determined to learn & I loved it! Dance is my passion....it keeps me going.

Ok, so go back to when you learned Beyonce hired you (at 17 years old!). What went through your mind?
AE: DISBELIEF! (laughing). I thought: "Is this a joke? Am I getting punk'd?" I was in high school at the time, thinking "is this happening to me?" I was in shock; it was the best feeling ever!

What are rehearsals like?
AE: My LIFE is a rehearsal, ha ha! We are always in the studio rehearsing for something. We spend months of rehearsals with 8 hour days (or more) for appearances, another show, another performance. I love it!

Now, about THAT HAIR.....many of us forgot to exhale when we were introduced to your massive mane!
AE: Thank you! I've never permed it, but I did go through a phase when I discovered the flat iron. Then on tour in '07, I curled it all the time with a curling iron. After experiencing some damage, I decided not to put heat on it for as long as I could. That's when I started wearing the big curly afro that I've been rocking for a few years. Fans started writing in & Tweeting about my puff-puffs.

How do you care for your hair on tour?
AE: Well, I take care of it myself. I keep it conditioned because it dries out easily. And I use good products; all products made for natural hair.

Do you have a regimen?
AE: I keep it pretty simple. I use Morracan Intensive Curl Cream (it's in a pump) & I use it when my hair is wet. I also use Quidad Curl Holding Gel. It holds curls & doesn't weigh down the hair. I HATE those gels that weigh the hair down! I style 2-3 times a week, and let it air dry because it's so thick.

What's your secret to keeping your curls camera/stage ready?
AE: (giggles) I style my hair a day in advance when I want to look cute & I sleep on it for a day. It's just me, the pillow & my hair!

Hush your fuss...what you say?!
AE: That's it! We really don't have to spend that much time on our hair. I only use a couple of products, water & a plastic brush with the balls on the end. And my "black girl brush"....we ALL have a black girl brush, ha ha! I get trims every three months to keep it healthy & growing. I just stick to what I know. If it ain't broke....


Do strangers try to touch your 'fro?
AE: People are like, "Oh my GOD!" when they see my 'fro. It actually makes me feel good; they think it's the best thing ever. Most people ask "Can I touch IT?" like it's an alien baby. I think it's funny.

What are some mistakes you've made with your mane?
AE: When I was younger, I wanted straight, flowy hair. (I haven't always loved it). Everybody's hair is different, & my hair went through phases....including heat damage. My ends were fried, so I had to cut a few inches off & start fresh.

YIKES!
AE: I know, right?! To anyone's who new to natural hair, we have to maintain our hair & BE PATIENT. Consistency is key. (I had to re-train my hair). Get in a regular routine, OWN your hair, & LOVE it. If you love it, other people will love it as well.

So how do you deal with a bad hair day?
AE: I just rock it like it's hot, ha ha!

(I start asking the next question, but Ash excitedly jumps in....)
AE: Oh my God, I have to tell you about this! There was this one time when my hair caught on fire in a restaurant!

SAY WHAT??!!!
AE: Let me tell you: So, we're sitting in a booth & candles were lit behind us, and my 'fro sort of went up in flames! My dad saw it before I knew what was going on & put me in a headlock; then I smelled it.....OH MY GOD! !!! Hair fizzles up so quickly & I had a big chunk of it burn - I thought I was going to be bald! By the time I got home I couldn't even find the short pieces because I have so much hair.

O.M.G. - no words.
AE: They comped the meal, though.

Wow. So what's next for your gorgeous locks?
AE: I'm not tired of my 'fro yet, so I'll just keep rocking it.

...and what's next for YOU?
AE: Well, I've been enjoying a break; it's nice to have time off & be home. I'm doing things I haven't done yet during this time. I'm just excited to see where the journey takes me!

Any advice for girls who dream of dancing?
AE: Definitely! Take as many classes as you can. The more training you have, the more confident you'll be! It's always easier to switch gears with proper training under your belt; then you'll gain more experience.

What keeps you inspired?
AE: Beyonce works so hard - her drive makes me want to work hard, too. And I love the fans! After doing this for a few years & building a fan base, they keep me going. If I can inspire one person & show them dreams can come true, I'm happy.

You can find Ashley on Facebook (Ashley Everett) or Twitter: @ashleycmeverett

Getting Down To Frizzness: Ms. Vaughn & Meechy Monroe!

Their energy is infectious. Tips on everything from make-up to fashion (and of course - FABULOUS hair) can be found on their channels. Thousands of subbies tune in just to see what they're up to next! They are the incredible Monroe sisters (Ms. Vaughn/Meechy) & they are naturally glamorous!


It is so awesome to sit down with two of

You Tubes most darling naturals: The Monroe Sisters! (I’ve been inspired in my own journey through both of these stunning beauties!) Following you has been so inspirational; how was it growing up in such a close knit family?

First of all thank you so much for the kind words. We are happy that we could inspire you in your journey!

MsVaughn- Growing up in a close knit family definitely has its perks but also lots of drama! I think the drama is what has made our lives so interesting and fulfilling though. Between my sisters and I, we’ve always been very close having attended the same schools and even the same University! Even in adulthood, we all live in neighborhoods that are within a few miles of each other. Over the years we’ve simply grown closer and happen to actually enjoy each other. Our parents have helped to develop our relationships because they act as authoritative mediators in our lives which I think is a key factor in ensuring a wholesome sibling relationship.
MeechyMonroe- Awesome! LOL, there is always something to get into and people to share good times with…never a dull moment let me tell you. But at the end of the day when the world may seem a bit cold you’re comforted by the fact that you know there will always be someone there when you need them.


Ok seriously, it seems like we woke up one day & both of you had blown up on You Tube! Because of your approachable (transparent) personalities coupled with an incredible sense of style, hair & make-up, viewers/fans can’t get enough! What has the journey been like?

MsVaughn- It’s crazy because Meechy and I never intended to be so popular. Ever. We literally started our channels to give hair advice to our friends from college who had connected with us via Facebook. We had no idea that there were actually so many more curious women out there who would even care to know about our opinions and perspectives on beauty and hair. The whole time we were simply feeding off the energy that was being given to us. Every time someone would request another tutorial, we were right there to deliver. We are continually grateful for all the love and support.
MeechyMonroe- It’s been an amazing experience for us so far! One day you tape a video to simply assist a few women in their Natural Hair Journey with tips and information and the next you’re listed as an inspiration to so many. I’m blessed to be able to have a platform that so many women are interested in tuning in to.


Name a talent or gift you have outside of hair:

MsVaughn – Most people don’t know that although I’m seen as this Fashionista who puts so much effort into her look, I’m actually more of a “Tom-Boy” most of the time who likes to do push-ups, cook and go camping in my sweat shirt and stretch pants. Writing is one of my favorite pastimes. I actually have a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and have written many short stories.
MeechyMonroe – While in college I was heavily involved with a Modeling Organization that developed my love for fashion and being creative while putting together outfits. I would want a certain look for a particular scene in a show but I wasn’t always able to find it in any of the local stores. At that point I taught myself how to use a sewing machine and began to create pieces and outfits from fabric without using any patterns. It’s been a love of mine since childhood when I would sew by hand, I’ve just gotten better with time.



How long have you been rocking your frizzness? Who was the first to dive into the curly clouds?

MeechyMonroe - I’ve been natural for a little over 2 years now and loving every second.
MsVaughn- I’ve been about 3 years post relaxer but about 18 years pre relaxer. Many do not know that my sister and I were both natural for most of our lives having only gotten perms in High School in preparation for senior prom. I was the first one of my sisters to revert back to my natural hair and it just created this sort of bandwagon-effect which caused the rest of them to begin to look at their hair from a different perspective. Meechy was the first one to discover the YouTube Natural Hair Community which she then introduced to me.

Did you desire a second date following your BC/End of transition, or did you make reservations for a party of ONE?

MeechyMonroe - I big chopped about 3 months into my transition where I vowed I would take off as much as necessary and start my natural Hair Journey off without any permed ends. The following week I found myself snipping at my hair to be sure everything was taken off. I was so tired of those stringy pieces of hair.
MsVaughn- I knew the moment I big-chopped my hair that I would never see another perm again in life. I know this sounds unbelievably decisive, but that’s just how I am. I knew that I would never want permanently straight hair again and this is because my reasons for going natural in the first place were so deeply rooted in the realization that I just wanted to have the “look” that I was intended to have. Besides, I knew that I could always straighten it temporarily if I really ever wanted to try straight hair again.

Natural Hair doesn't define who you are BUT.....

MeechyMonroe – It is a huge part of my life and displays a realm of confidence and self-acceptance everywhere I go. Since becoming Natural I have opened my eyes to so many things and certainly have become conscious on numerous levels.
MsVaughn – Natural Hair is a direct reflection of my level of understanding and content with who I am. People don’t realize that the way you treat your body in terms of the foods you eat, the decisions you make and the stuff that you put in your head (both metaphorically and literally), directly affects your mood, confidence and even your outlook on life. For all the Naturals out there, it’s more than just hair; we have to focus on creating a new generation of future adults who LOVE what they look like, overall. It truly makes a difference.

You are down to the last $20 of your splurging budget. Is it going to tease the product junkie in you, or do you find another glam outfit/shoes to rock?

MeechyMonroe – Normally I keep my staple products down to a minimum and I “try” to stick with what I know works. Okay, I can be a bit of a product junkie. LOL. But if I was down to my last $20 I would certainly head to my neighborhood Goodwill and grab a few key pieces to add to my clothing arsenal instead of adding to my constantly growing collection of hair products. I’m more of a bargain junkie than I am a product junkie.
MsVaughn- I’m so far from being a product junkie! I have my staple products and I rarely stray away unless there is an overwhelming reason to do so. I would use that money to get a manicure.

You don’t have a particular style….you just seem to own IT. How would you describe your styles?

MsVaughn – My style is best described as Funky. It probably has more to do with my personality than anything because whatever I wear has to make me feel like a unique individual. Sometimes I make totally unpredictable styles work to fit my personality and I often wear things that I’ve never been known to wear before... like a skirt, or a lacey, ruffly dress. There are times where I have literally sought out looks for the sole purpose of helping me accomplish the goal of satisfying my “funk-appetite” lol.
MeechyMonroe - My personal style can be described as Vintage Comfy Chic…if that makes any sense. I love pieces inspired by the past that are billowy yet tapered, textured yet sleek, and traditional yet funky. Every now and then you’ll see me step away from my norm but this pretty much describes me in a nutshell.


Because natural manes are so unpredictable, how do you combat feeling defeated on days when your crown seems less than stellar (based your OWN criteria)?

MeechyMonroe – In my mind I never have a bad hair day because I understand my hair and am very accepting of it in all stages. I style it based on the condition that it’s in or the amount of effort I am willing to put out. When all fails simply throw on your favorite lip color, a crocheted hat, and mascara and you should be good to go.
MsVaughn – There are definitely days when my hair is not “done” enough for my taste. But it’s never an issue of texture, it’s usually a deficiency somewhere involving the “state” of my hair. I always find that with the right accessories and attitude, I can literally manipulate people into thinking that whatever is going on in my head was intended! Just yesterday my hair was literally matted from front to back. I did not have time to do anything to it and it was really bad. So I separated some of the matted areas with my fingers, put on some makeup, earrings and pushed the front back with a pair of shades and got a ton of compliments.

CONFIDENCE CHECK: You both exude an air of confidence letting us know you realize (and embrace) exactly who you are. Where does it come from?

MeechyMonroe – I am bred from a family of extremely strong willed and confident women. I think that a lot of what I am today was developed from my family and those that set examples around me.
MsVaughn – My confidence comes from within. I also allow myself to receive compliments and I also give them. Humility is an extremely noble trait that our parents taught us early on. Telling another woman that her outfit, makeup, hair, etc is pretty actually makes me feel good about myself. It also helps to establish your OWN criteria of beauty. For example, the day you have on jeans should be the day that “jeans” rule the world! Why? Simply because you have them on.

Share some secrets leading to a fabulous, happy, HEALTHY mane...promise we WILL tell!

MsVaughn – Some good tips for keeping your hair gorgeous longer is to be sure to take the time each night to prep your hair for bed. Think about the definition that you will want the next day and either braid it or twist it that night before placing a satin bonnet on top! A tip for soft, shiny hair is to always moisturize your hair with water first, THEN add your moisturizer. If you’ve ever wondered why your hair looks so “dull,” this is probably why. And lastly, get yourself a good “go-to” pin up/roll-and-tuck style. This will be your best friend during the work-week when you’re having a “bad hair day” and you’ll be surprised at how glamorous your look will turn out!
MeechyMonroe – Maintain a level of moisture that will allow your hair to flourish. At the end of the day I think moisturized hair is most important and being able to realize when your hair needs it is golden. Dry brittle hair is a playing ground for breakage, frizziness, and an irritated scalp. I find that when my strands are well moisturized, elastic, and shiny I can pull off any style on any given day. Find a good moisturizing agent to use in addition to the most important ingredient of all…WATER.


What was the WORST mane mistake you’ve made along the way?

MsVaughn – Applying color!!! I’m not going to color-bash, but I’ll say this, had I not colored my hair almost immediately after big-chopping, I would have, literally, twice as much hair right now and I wouldn’t have had to struggle as much with my texture. The color made my hair indefinitely dry, brittle and weightless. Towards the final days of my color, my hair looked like hay in a barnyard. It has since been completely removed.
MeechyMonroe – Worst mane mistake? Hmmm…when I 1st realized that my hair was long enough to be pulled up I wore a puff literally every day. I was so excited that I could try a different style that I slicked and pulled my poor hair to death. If I knew then what I know now I definitely would have taken it easy on my hair sooner and opted for more options revolving around twists and loose pin ups, which I got into later.

What advice can you bless new, transitioning or frustrated kinky curly queens with?
MsVaughn – The best advice I can give for new naturals is to be patient with their “newgrowth.” It’s important to understand that this new texture, with which you are being presented, is not a bad thing; it’s simply a new thing. It’s going to take time to get to know your hair all over again. Where things may have seemed easier for new naturals when they had relaxers, the ease of handling was being compensated with damage and stunted hair growth. I encourage new naturals to attend Natural Hair Meetups, subscribe to Natural Hair YouTube channels and view daily Natural Hair blogs because the inspiration and real-life advice is priceless.
MeechyMonroe – Realize what was given to you and work it to your advantage. OWN IT! Learn your hair…listen to your hair…and love your hair. Once you are more in tune with your individual strands be patient and willing to alter your hair care techniques/styles as you hair grows and thickens.


What natural experiments put the glam in your crown? Which ones ended up filed under Campaign EPIC FAIL?

MeechyMonroe - For me as far as glam I would have to say my whipped shea butter that I use weekly and yields very defined twistout results. When my hair is twisted out it literally looks great in any style and I am happy in knowing that its stretched and tangle free. An Epic Fail for me would be experimenting with numerous gel’s to achieve the perfect curl when I rocked my TWA. I had my fair share of sticky, tacky, flaky hair before I got it right realizing that water was my best friend…oh and EcoStyler Gel.
MsVaughn- When I decided to experiment with extensions, I chose kinky ones. I remember trying to do an “updo” style with a bundle of kinky braiding hair extensions for Meechy’s birthday one year and it was a huge hit. I ended up sharing the idea on YouTube and the video went viral as many other popular vloggers attempted the style while giving credit to the originator


What's the most fabulous part of your journey to frizzness?

MeechyMonroe – To me it was being able to be comfortable in my own skin during my entire journey. I reframed from wearing extensions during this process which forced me to learn my hair at each and every length stage. I didn’t take the easier route instead I faced any insecurities head on and learned to accept change. It’s truly opened my eyes and have allowed me to come into myself.
MsVaughn – I love the fact that my confidence and style-awareness has gone up significantly. And to be honest, I’m now more conscious of my overall look and my face which has led me to dabbling more into makeup and fashion. Being natural has made me actually want to stand out amongst the crowd and to be more creative while experimenting with my look. It has taught me to embrace, and almost promote, the things that make me “different” from others. It’s been an amazing journey and I feel that I look my absolute best with natural hair. Seriously, being a woman was never this fun before! lol

Outside of your gorgeous mane, what inspires you?

MeechyMonroe – I pull inspiration from my environment and the world around me. The people, colors, textures, conversations, works of art, places I’ve been. I see beauty in everything and can even appreciate the small things. I am inspired by life itself.
MsVaughn – I’m inspired by so many different things especially fashion and makeup. Sometimes I’ll create a whole look around one color, one earring, or one unique texture. I’m a very creative person so the possibilities are endless as I’m always drawing inspiration from everything around me, especially other naturals.

You are both so free, fun & PROFESSIONAL. How is to have your own identities, yet work with your sister on all of these modeling, video projects & speaking engagements?
MsVaughn – It actually works out pretty effortlessly. Meechy and I have many of the same interests and ideas so we always seem to be on the same page. As with any duo though, we have to take specific measures when it comes to synching our schedules as well as consideration for our individual personal lives. We actually have real fun when we travel to different places to speak to ladies about accepting their hair, bodies, skin, etc. Overall, I’d much rather work with my sister on certain projects when considering facets like trust and compatibility.
MeechyMonroe – It is truly amazing. My sis and I both have our strengths and we are a perfect match building and working off each other. It’s quite natural for the two of us to collaborate as we were inseparable growing up and did almost everything as a pair. It’s quite nice to have someone you’re so close with be your motivation and vice versa. We push each other and enjoy being able to join forces on so many projects bringing in our own personal styles and individuality.


How can our beautiful readers find you on the web?
TheMonroeSisters@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/MsVaughnTV
http://www.facebook.com/MsVaughnOnYouTube
http://www.twitter.com/MsVaughnTV

http://www.youtube.com/MeechyMonroe
http://www.MeechyMonroe.com
http://www.twitter.com/MeechyMonroe

For LOVE or Curls?

Is it ME?
But why does it seem like some of the products your curls love the most spit in the face of your snuggleboo?

Case in point: My curls were kinda having fun with my test run of Cantu Shea Leave In Conditioner. (Review to come). But the Hubbs can't stand the stuff because it sends his lungs, nasal passage & any other of his breathing mechanisms into a tizzy! Quiet as it's kept, shortly after I started using it, I picked up a pretty crappy cough. Then I noticed right after I took a break from it for a short spell, my own lungs stopped behaving like I licked a dirty ashtray. Oftentimes, 2 + 2 does indeed = 4.

Products with overbearing fragrance additions, intrusive "chemical" scents or just plain stink make the Hubb's flesh crawl. He has a hyper-sensitive (almost canine) smelling device, so I'm left with two choices:

#1 - Increase our insurance policy premiums & pray for the best
#2 - Consider my sweetie's health& break relations with the aforementioned offenders.

I love my Boo, so I opt for #2, which in the end will be beneficial to both of our standards of health & stop choking the heck out of us!

So what about you, Curlies? What products do your sweet'ums hate....if any?

There's 2 sides to every Frizz
natural dancer

I Confess: I'm a Chronic Manipulator!

Hiya, Curlie-Pies!

It's been a busy, busy time for me dancing & such. But when I tell GOD has been so good, I am telling you the TRUTH!
Now, down to hair biz....

I don't like to experiment much with my strands when I'm in front of folk.....which has been nearly every day for the last few weeks. Alas, I still like for my wig to look tended to, yes? That to say I've been testing some products to review which has kinda thrown my coils into a bit of a tizzy because none of it involved my beloved Scurl which I had to add back in. My curls HATE being styled dripping wet & come out drier than a blank stare in response to a crappy joke when I try it. No Scurl, dripping tresses, experiments gone wrong (Royal Crown Hair Grease debacle) have all led to my hands being in my hair waaaaaayyyyyyy to much! I'm about on my third wash or rinse this week, grrrrrrr. So I've got to rinse my head one more again, & leave it alone for a minute. I'm not happy & I don't think my mane is either.

Oh & my hair seems to be changing: it no longer likes gel, my twists look plain weird for some reason, and the longer it's gotten.....my puff has disappeared into the land of the ponytails.

So that's what's been going on with me. Are you a chronic manipulator? How do you get over that when your crown doesn't look (or feel) the way you want it to? And how long does it take you to get your hair moisturized after washing?

There's 2 sides to every Frizz,
natural dancer

Getting Down To Frizzness: Miss Curve 2011 Chrisandra Wells!

Wow.....just, WOW. That's all I could say upon seeing this young woman's pictures. Her locs are simply glorious; but her holistic approach to natural hair care, self embracement & conquering life's obstacles are refreshing. She is On the Couch & Naturally Glamorous: the reigning Miss Curve 2011, Chrisandra Wells!


Please tell us a bit about your journey to modeling & the honor of being crowned Miss Curve:

Hello everyone! First of all I would like to say it is an honor to be interviewed for your publication and I feel it is so wonderful that we are appreciating ourselves and our God-given beauty in all its many forms. I have had an interest in beauty/fashion modeling from pre-adolescence, during that time I can remember collecting teen fashion magazine and emulating the latest looks. I always loved playing dress up and taking photos. As I approached my late teens I realized that I would not have the stick thin frame of a high fashion model, so I thought my dream would be deferred. Shortly thereafter, I became aware of the growing need for plus models and realized that I fit those requirements perfectly. I have been a freelance model and done a variety of work for commercial and fashion companies, namely Redbook Magazine, Starbuck’s Red Campaign, E-fashion solutions (Rocawear), Cassandra Bromfield Designs, Underwraps of NYC, Urban Books.net, Energizer, etc. I have recently been a featured hair model for loc stylist Thando Kafele at various shows such as World Natural Hair Show in Atlanta, GA, Transcendence Natural Hair Show in Brooklyn, NY; Bronner Bros.(Natural Hair Competition) in Baltimore, MD, and most recently the Master Pioneer Award Ceremony held at the Brooklyn Museum in Brooklyn, NY.

I competed in the Miss Curve Competition which including an online voting component as well as charity fund-raising. As a finalist I competed against seven other ladies in runway modeling and short interview. I am very excited to have the title as Miss Curve 2011. I represent the curvy natural women of the world! I believe that curves and fashion go perfectly together, and designers have finally realized we look great in tailored clothing that showcases our femininity and voluptuousness. I have been approached by a few designers after winning the title of Miss Curve and I am happy to shoot for them.


Seriously, your locs are ASTOUNDING! You’ve been natural almost your entire life; was there ever a time when you were relaxed? How long have you been growing your beautiful locs?

Thanks for the compliment! I have been growing my locs since November of 2000. For most of my life I have been chemical-free. During the “MJ era” ha –ha I did have a Care Free curl, after it grew out my hair was not processed again until junior high school. I did have a perm for about 6 months and that was the last time I chemically processed my hair.



Natural Hair doesn't define who you are BUT.....
It is a part of me, it does speak for me. It says I am ok with the way I was born into this world. It is a choice to alter oneself, although it is not necessary. It is definitely not necessary (altering oneself) in order to be considered beautiful.

As a pageant winner & successful model, you have to totally accept yourself inside & out. What does self esteem/self embracing mean to you?

I accept my size first. I am presently a full size 16, at a lower weight I am a 14, and I am totally comfortable with this. I possess self-esteem to acknowledge my weaknesses and work on them, and also to be content with all the many talents I have been blessed with that one may not see with the naked eye. This inner appreciation I believe shows through my interaction with others.

You elegantly represent both plus-sized AND natural haired beauties. Have you professionally or personally encountered road blocks along the way in either category?

I have been challenged by society in an unspoken fashion, society does not abundantly portray natural hair models, or models with locs in advertisements and media. Very often Black women are wearing hairpieces and/or weaves which reinforces the concept that we need to add artificial hair in order to be accepted or beautiful.

In terms of my plus size modeling work, I have sometimes been evaluated by peers based upon my degree of “plus sized-ness”. When I have been at a lower weight and around a size 12/14, other plus sized women have told me I was not “plus-sized” or not big enough to be considered “plus”. It is such a boxed world that we make categories and labels for everything. I just know one thing: bigger or smaller I am CURVY!

You are the epitome of length retention! How do you nurture your locs & keep them moisturized?
My locs are waist-length. Thando Kafele of Brooklyn, New York has been my locstylist for 8 years. He deep conditions and styles my locs every 6 weeks and uses Jane Carter Products. I wash and condition my hair with Jane Carter Products every 3 weeks, and I use the Nourish and Shine Cream as well as the Scalp Serum. Her product line has a wonderful scent and is all natural.

Do random people attempt to lay hands in your mane?
Only babies pull my hair, ha-ha. People ask me about it, but rarely if ever touch it.

Do you find your mane becoming the grand topic of conversation?
The funniest thing is that some people have asked me if this was all my hair. I love to hear young Black girls tell me how nice my hair is, that is what makes me the happiest- for us to love ourselves.

What was the WORST mistake you’ve made in your journey?

I can’t say I have made a mistake in terms of what I have had done to my hair. Even the act of chemically processing my hair made me realize that it is unnecessary, and that action has taught me to value my natural attributes more.

What advice can you bless new, transitioning or frustrated kinky curly queens with?

My advice is for them to be re-acquainted with their authentic selves. I know there are a lot of support forums and blogs that they can turn to for help with styling their hair. It is also important for the people in their lives who may not be natural to be educated about certain hairstyles. I have had older women ask me in the past how I would be wearing my hair to my wedding, silently implying that my natural locs were not elegant. This is such a disgusting and disgraceful attitude that we have been brainwashed with these ideals.

What's the most fabulous part of your journey to frizzness?

I like feeling free in the rain, wind and sun.


Outside of your gorgeous mane, what inspires you?

My children inspire me to make them the best people they can be. Art also inspires me to dream and express myself. I am a visual artist and a poet, although I might not have mentioned it.

What’s next for you?

Something is definitely coming. . .I would love to be World Natural Hair Model! That just may be the next thing I’m going for. . .

How can our beautiful readers find you on the web?
Readers can find me on Twitter @CurvyChrisandra Facebook Fan page: Miss Curve 2011 Chrisandra Wells http://modelmayhem.com/chrisandra

Cantu Shea Madness - Twisted Updo

Hiya, Curlie-Pies!
So last week was theme-inspired all week at the j-o-b. So on Rock Star Day, I donned my silver hotpants & worked a twisted updo (inspired by the

fab Meechy Monroe) and had a blast! (Note: this was right before dance practice....the outfit was no longer complete).

Have you tried Cantu? What are your thoughts? I love it, but......

(TO BE CONTINUED)

There's 2 sides to every Frizz,
natural dancer ~

Happy, Healthy & Back!

It's a fantastic day to be curly!
Well, Yours Curly has been dancing/teaching Wednesday-Sunday for the last couple of weeks, hence the sparse postings. In short: a sista's been TI-REDDDDD! The ministry has been nothing short of incredible, so I don't dare complain; God has truly been hard at work opening unimaginable doors.....I've been truly blessed!

Now, as for my mane. Can ya'll believe it, Curlie-Pies? Aside

from a little smoothing around the front perimeter, I've totally ditched hair gel! Not sure if my mane has changed her temperamental mind or if I woke up realizing my strands just don't need to drink it...but I've noticed them increasingly becoming less persnickety! And since I've jumped off the gelly-train, my coils haven't seemed to mind one bit. In fact, they seem happier & frizzless under their Scurl/shea butter umbrella. I've got great sheen, bounce, healthy & RETAINED ends....my crown couldn't be giddier!

I'm including shots of my tresses enjoying their simplified routine, which is a simple twist out. Some nights, I pineapple. Others I retwist with no product using the Naptural85 method of stretching which does wonders for me. Even following heavy days of dancing, my coils remain moisturized and in tact.

How about you, ladies? Have have your strands taught you lately?

Preparing for another long week of dancing.....and feeling the joy!

There's 2 sides to every Frizz,

natural dancer

Getting Down To Frizzness: Angela Batravil!

Great day, Curlies!
What a joy to bring to you one talented young woman who is an artist at heart and a gorgeous natural! Take one look at her pre-BC pictures & you will truly be inspired by the courage it took to Big Chop her waist length tresses! She's an awesome wife, mother, producer, writer, actress AND director....WHEW! But most of all she's an encouragement to the natural communit

y. Please meet Angela B!


Tell us about you:
My Name is Angela Batravil. I am originally from Philadelphia and I currently live in Los Angeles. Professionally, I am an actor/director/writer/producer. In 2010 I founded Strong Mountain Productions; a Los Angeles based entertainment company where I serve as Creative Director. I am currently rehearsing a stage production I wrote called “Testimonies From The Valley”. I am directing and producing this show and I’m also starring in it along with 6 amazing actors. The show opens on October 14th, 2011 at the Attic Theater in Los Angeles.

Personally, I am a wife and a mother of school aged children. Between work and family I’m a very busy lady.

How long have you been rocking your frizzness?
I’m approaching 9 years with my happy natural.

Natural Hair doesn't define who you are BUT.....it does say a lot about your personal comfort with who you are.

What was the moment of epiphany in your journey?
The real Epiphany for me was about 8 or 9 months into my journey when I realized that my natural hair was actually curly! My hair had been chemically straightened since I was a child and I really had no clue what my natural texture was. When I first went natural I started twisting, and manipulating my hair into so many “styles”, that I still failed to realize what it could do all on its’ own. I was truly amazed to discover that when I wash my hair and let it air dry, it curls all by itself. Wow! It doesn’t get any easier than that.

Because natural manes are so unpredictable, how do you combat feeling defeated on days when your crown seems less than stellar (based your OWN criteria)?
When my hair is doing strange things, I rock a style I call the “Half-fro”. I pull it all over to one side and pin it up. Somehow, no matter what’s going on with the curls (or lack thereof) the half-fro seems to make it alright.

Do random people attempt to lay hands in your mane?
Yes. I’ve had lots of people ask to touch my hair. It doesn’t bother me. I see it as a chance to educate.

Do you find your mane becoming the grand topic of conversation?
Oh yeah. The most common comment I hear is from other African American women with chemically treated or weaved hair saying “I wish I could wear my hair like that”. I always try to encourage women that they can!

The other constant conversation is with other naturals. We always ask each other “What products do you use on your hair?” I really think that most naturals are product junkies. We buy and try a lot of hair products.

CONFIDENCE CHECK: Has natural hair allowed you to dance as if no one is watching, or has your aurora remain unfazed since your relaxed days?
I am much more comfortable with myself since going natural. When my hair was relaxed I had to put a lot of effort into making sure it looked a certain way. Being natural I’m not so concerned. I’m completely comfortable just letting it be. I wear my hair exactly the way God makes it grow.

Share some secrets leading to a fabulous, happy, HEALTHY mane...promise we WILL tell!
Conditioner and moisture are key. 2 of my must-haves are extra virgin olive oil and pure coconut oil. I mix these together in a squeeze bottle and use them daily. Also a good trim every few months is essential to keeping healthy hair too.

What was the WORST mistake you’ve made along the way?
At about 1.5 years I dyed my whole head red. Dying natural hair seems to be a part of most people’s journey. I think when your hair is short and natural for the first time, dying it seems like a great idea to give it some pizzaz. I must say, it was a lot of fun to wear my curly red, but it turned out to be horrible for the health of my hair. It became dry and brittle. No matter what I did I couldn’t stop the breakage. So…that sizzling red hair eventually led me back to another big chop and I started all over again. This time I vowed to never dye it again.

What advice can you bless new, transitioning or frustrated kinky curly queens with?
For those transitioning I would advise not to prolong the big chop. Growing your hair out with braids or wigs before cutting it is a good idea for a short while, but the misconception that you will grow enough natural roots to start with a huge head of afro is just not so. Make the chop rather quickly and get on with the rest of journey even quicker.

For new naturals I would advise to resist the temptation to constantly style your new natural. Instead, get a good conditioner and begin to just let it be. Let your hair find its own curl pattern. You just might be surprised what your hair will do all by itself.

What natural experiments put the glam in your crown? Which ones ended up filed under Campaign EPIC FAIL?
Leave-in conditioners are the best glam secret for my hair! I was not raised using leave-ins. I always believed that when I wash my hair I should rinse it very well to get everything out. Leaving any products in my hair would be unclean. Or so I thought. When I discovered the power of a good leave-in I couldn’t believe I went so long without this knowledge.

What's the most fabulous part of your journey to frizzness?
I’ve experienced many wonderful things from going natural however the most fabulous part is not even about me. In recent years my two older sisters and my niece have gone natural. I really loved watching their journeys. I’d like to think that maybe I had something to do with their choice….just maybe. ;o) Either way, I’m excited and proud of them for making this bold choice.

Outside of your gorgeous mane, what inspires you?
Jesus Christ, my family and art are the core inspirations in my life. These 3 are the reason that I continue to forge forward every day.

How can our beautiful readers find you on the web?
You can friend me on Facebook: Angela Batravil
Follow me on Twitter: AngelaBatravil
or
To join the Strong Mountain email list to stay informed about current and upcoming productions, email StrongMountainProdutcions@yahoo.com stating so. We’ll add you to our list.

Many thanks & blessings for getting down to frizzness!
Thank you. It was my pleasure.