Hair Lust: Kinky Fade

 

Tell me why I keep looking at haircut pictures - SWOON! This kinky fade is just so SLICK! Ugh, words escape me, so just look at the photo and get your LIFE!

PHOTO Review: Kid Electric tribute to India Arie

Candice, Toya, and Melissa

Of course the team was in the house to celebrate co-writer, Toya, as she brought back her Kid Electric concert series. Last week I let you know that this event was taking place. The Mercy Lounge was filled to capacity as we listened to Nashville's finest singers perform tributes to India Arie's debut album, Acoustic Soul.

The event kicked off the comeback of Kid Electric concerts - a quarterly music experience that pairs Nashville's local artists with iconic R&B/Soul albums giving performances that benefit local charities. If you did't get a chance to come out - make sure you are available in June when Kid Electric performs the Best of Bad Boy! AWW smack! You know that's gonna be fly!

The house was packed!

Well you know I had to snap some photos of natural hair diva's rocking their style at the event. It was SUPER packed in the venue, but I got a chance to snap a couple photos. Check out these lovely ladies:

Singer, Lo Carter

EVENT: KidElectric Concerts presents India.Arie Tribute Concert

Ok, NIN readers, you gotta make your way to this event! TONIGHT Kid Electric presents India.Arie's Acoustic Soul the debut album from the singer who taught so many of us that it was OK to be and love yourself.

Local Nashville artists will perform songs from the album ('Video', 'Strength, Courage & Wisdom', 'Brown Skin', etc) putting their own charisma on the productions. I'm telling you, you don't want to miss this wonderful event. Plus it's a great time to hear awesome music by Nashville's most talented artists.

Oh yeah, 25% of the proceeds go to Thistle Farms and extension of the Magdalene House. The Magdalene House is a non-profit organization that helps women who come from dire situations (homelessness, domestic violence, and/or prostitution). Thistle Farms makes all-natural bath & body products as a way to fund and provide therapy for the participants. I've tried their products - YES - they are so good!

Our writer, Toya, created/manages Kid Electric Concerts. Kid Electric fuses our favorite music with a philanthropic focus. Going to one of Toya's concerts was how we became friends.

So come out! The show starts at 9p and tickets are $10 at the door.  Get there early as the venue is sure to fill up quick! See ya tonight!

From Kid Electric:  Kid Electric Concerts was created in an effort to give a platform to some of Nashville's best kept secrets in the music community all the while raising money for some of Nashville's lesser known but much needed community service organizations. It is our belief that our music community and our community based organizations are an integral part of what makes Nashville great.

Link Love: Alex's Peppermint Hair & Body Pudding

 

You know the NIN team are fans of whipping up our own body butters and hair balms. After last month's post teaching you all about carrier and essential oils, you should be well versed in mixing up your own recipes. Whipping up your own butters and hair oils helps with the cost of buying all those expensive designer products.

I was reading one of my favorite natural hair blogs, The Good Hair Blog, ran by blogger Alexandra when I came across her recipe for peppermint hair & body pudding! OOOOOH WEEE!! I cannont wait to try this!

The recipe mixes Shea butter, peppermint oil, coconut oil, manuka honey, and jojoba for a pudding like product that can be used from head to toe. You know I'm headed to Ebay to buy these products and get to mixing! Click the link below for the recipe.

Alex's Peppermint Hair & Body Pudding

Click here for the recipe

Hair Lust: Precision Cut Curls

What a great photo to welcome spring! Ahh - yes - come the days of slight delicate dresses, bare shoulders, and wild hair. But, here's a haircut that tames wild but gives the model a chic trendy look. Seriously, I'm so in love with this cut, it's taking everything in me not to get it. Enjoy the first day of spring!

(SOURCE - Photo: Liz Brinson, Model: Hanine from California)

Product Review: Design Essentials Curl Lengthening Cremè

While we are planning the Music City Naturals event, the team and I are working hard to get y'all some great goodie bags and door prizes. If possible, we might have a super goodie grab bag filled with Design Essentials products - buy those tickets and cross your fingers (hopefully you'll win).

So, I was contacted by the Design Essentials team to try their new hair are line that is specifically designed for curly hair (especially 2a-4c). Last night I decided to wash my hair and give one of the Design Essentials products a try - the Curl Lengthening Creme - which is designed for Type 4 hair.

In my effort to use the hairdryer less I've been exploring products that promise lengthening and non-shrinking capabilities. My 4a-4b hair shrinks up to 75% when wet. Using a blow dryer helps me to keep the appearance of length but it can also damage your hair.

I've had this creme used on me when I visited Kaneesha Martin at Mahogany Suites. She used a combination of Design Essentials products on me in order to achieve a specific look. I did the same. I used the Design Essentials Natural Shampoo & Conditioner. Both were so-so. I still love my One n' Only Argan Oil Restorative Mask as my conditioner, but Design Essentials conditioner is nice with a slight slip.

After washing and conditioning my hair I towel dried and started applying the Curl Lengthening Creme. The product has a great smell - kinda like cupcakes. The consistency is thick like pudding. It makes your hair real slippery. The directions say to do a two strand twist and sit under the dryer. Since I waited so late to do my hair, I applied the twists and used my hand dryer to set my hair. I didn't want to go to sleep with wet hair.

The next morning I was surprised to see that my twists were still hanging long. Usually when I do a wet-set my hair shrinks up to 50% of the length. I probably on had 10% shrinkage with the Curl Lengthening creme! SCORE! The picture above shows my hair after I removed my twists and manipulated my situtation. The product kinda hardens the hair so it's my advice that you use a little EVOO on your fingertips when removing your twists.

Here's a texture shot. The product kinda adds a silkiness to your hair. But there is also a RESIDUE on the hair - you can't see it but you can feel it. I don't know what it is - but whatever it is, the residue annoys me. However, I remember on the second day, the residue feeling goes away.

 

I have to say I do love the results and the definition. My hair is lengthened and the shrikage is almost non-existent. I will be back to do part 2 of my review when I use the setting lotion and the curl defining lotion.

ABOUT THE PRODUCT: Infused with the highest quality natural butters and oils to maintain and style loose wavy to tightly coiled hair textures. For all curl types, from Wavy to Coily, 2A to 4C. For intense curl definition, excellent moisture with lasting sheen and hold. Now available at Sally Beauty, select Walgreen’s, salons and select beauty and barber supply stores - purchase HERE

Ashiya's Hair Diary : Self-Care Rules

This week, I've decided to give my hair some extra love.  Spring will arrive this week so its time to begin my shift to my warm weather regimen.  Normally, this would include switching oils and adding in an extra wash during the week to balance workouts, but this year I'm doing a bit more.

I started out this month with The Organic Beauty Detox designed by Holistic Beauty Advisor and Celebrity Make Up artist, Akua Auset.  Although the detox is a physical protocol, it also extends to reviewing beauty and household products in my home that may contain toxins.

Akua has definitely helped to increase my consciousness and helped me realize its really a matter of making a few simple changes in where I shop and what I should be looking for in products. While it was a challenge to just throw out full bottles of product I already own, picking up a new bottle of shampoo was no problem at all!  I decided to go with a classic: Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap I picked up at Target.

I have some avocado that may go bad before I can eat them all and since I consider that a crime against nature, I'm going to whip up an avocado mask for my hair.  I've seen varying recipes, but I'm going to keep it simple and smooth out the avocado with some olive oil.  I plan to run it through my food processor to avoid rinsing out small chunks of avocado later.  For a simple recipe, check out the one I'm using here.

While all my avocado mask is marinating, I'm going to try my hand at a DIY green tea mask.  Akua posted a video sharing a bit of her self-care routine and her results from the green tea mask were lovely.

When I'm all done, I think I want to welcome spring in curls.  Curling my locs is one of my absolute favorite ways to wear my hair and I've tried every technique I've seen to achieve them.  Nothing gives me perfect curls - or frustration - like flexirods, so I'm going to suck it up and go in.   I'm so tempted to try the Curlformers.  If you know anyone that has used them successfully with locs, shout them out!

I'll update with pictures of my perfect curls (fingers crossed) and reviews of the hair and facial mask when I'm done.

Don't forget to schedule and plan your own self-care this week!  

Roots & Rhythm: Tony Toni Tone - Slow Wine

Tony, Toni, Tone has always been for the natural sistas. I mean, the boys tended to rock natural hairstyles that women lust for. I think Raphael Saadiq has had more hairstyles than most women. Anyway, thanks to VH1Soul, I was reminded of the group's hit underground song, "Slow Wine". This video features some much natural hair 90's goodness, you'll smell the patchouli and baby oil through the screen. ENJOY!

HAIR LUST: Kinky Coily Cuteness

 

Pintrest is the spot to find cool images. Of course when I saw this one, I had to share it with you guys. This is Cynthia, a fashion blogger from France. Check out her blog HERE. I'm loving her quirky style and her super cute kinky coily fro, don't you? 

CELEB STYLE: Brandy rocks a turban

 

Brandy is just my favorite! She's so pretty and such an AMAZING talent - I can't even take it. IN the photo above, Brandy is looking 'easy beezy' rocking a cute turban, embellished tunic, and ultra-mod Celine bag. I'm here for the whole look of mixing hi/low pieces and adding a dash of cultural style. 

We've talked about turbans plenty of times on the site and the turban trend is here to stay. Natural divas have another choice in protective styling as the warm months get close. You can pop on a turban on and add a stylish touch to any look while protecting your strands from sun damage. 

Take a look at the video below for easy turban tying techniques!

EVENT: Beautiful Roots Health & Healthy Hair Expo March 11, 2013

Meharry’s First Annual Hair Show and Women’s Health Expo coming March 11, 2013!!! This event is sponsored by Meharry's Women's Health Club to raise money for the 12 South Community Clinic!!!

Mission

The 12 South Community Clinic aims to address healthcare disparities within our community by providing FREE, high quality care to Nashville’s under served populations and by serving as a clinical skills training ground for students, inspiring the next generation of primary care specialists.

What to expect:

• A panel discussion covering the hottest topics related to hair care such as how to prevent breakage, hair growth, going natural, keratin treatment, and much much more. 
• Hair demonstrations by some of Nashville's most popular stylist
• FREE product samples(Softn Free, 4Naturals, Shea Moistures, CURLS, and more!)
• A HUGE raffle(hair cuts, dinner gift certificate, t-shirts, product baskets...etc, etc, etc)
• Several on-campus and off campus organizations will be discussing key issues related to women’s health such as nutrtion, exercise, mental health etc etc. 
• An introduction to 12 South Community Clinic
• A few surprises will be throw into the mix so be prepared!

Important Information:

• Get your ticket EARLY because supplies are limited
• The event will start with the panel so arriving on time is highly recommended
• Door prizes will be given to the first 5 people
• Some vendors will be selling products

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets

HAIR LUST: Claire from Fashion Bomb Daily

When I first started blogging on my website Fab Glance Fashion, Claire from the Fashion Bomb Daily, was a mentor in my mind. She has successfully made the jump from the corporate world to a professional blogger. This NYC native partners with big name fashion brands to report trends around the globe. The Fashion Bomb Daily is a go-to source to spot trends your fave celeb is rocking. Oh yeah, and she's natural!

Claire rocks these bomb blond locs! This year, she's reported from Fashion Weeks around the world and her hair is representing in these international streets. Click here to get into Claire's sassy, sophisticated style while she travels around the world.

Product Review: One n' Only Argan Oil Restorative Mask

When I first tried this product, I wanted to sing from the roof-tops about just how good it was. But, a good researcher knows it takes a couple of tries to validate such claims. Now, I'm here to say that One n' Only Argan Oil Restorative Mask is one of the best deep conditioners I've used on my hair.

I was introduced to this restorative mask when I went to visit, stylist Jessica Jones, to get my hair professionally straightened. I hadn't had my hair professionally straightened since going natural. I knew Jessica would be the perfect person for the task because her skills are impeccable, she uses great products, and she has a large amount of natural hair clients. When she examined my hair she noted the dryness and single-strand knots. Jessica decided a restorative treatment was best for me before clipping my ends and styling my hair.

When you choose to wear your hair straight, you must focus on  prepping the follicle with as much moisture and heat protection as possible. If you speed through the crucial deep-conditioning process you hair will be dry and easy to break or be damaged. Jessica used her favorite Design Essentials products (the 6-n-1 Reconstructive Conditioner and the Stimulations Super Moisturizing Conditioner) and then used the One n' Only Argan Oil as the last step in the moisture conditioning process.

After all that conditioning, I almost didn't want my hair to be pressed, but I desperately needed my ends clipped. Straightening coily (4b) hair is the best way to see any damage. She took off about an inch, but I was left with a great cut and alot of compliments.

CLICK HERE to book a session with Jessica 'J.Renee' Jones

I wore my hair straight for about two weeks, then I was ready to wash and deep condition at home. Coming out of a straight style is just as important as going into it - deep conditioning is key to get those coils bouncy again. I wasn't able to buy all the Design Essentials items, but Sally's Beauty Supply had the entire line on One n' Only Argan products.

The product is SUPER creamy and highly fragrant. The entire line is highly fragrant. So, if you don't like perfume laden products, this may not be the product for you. I love perfumed products - plus the product works so well you won't mind. The product is not targeted for 'natural' hair but it is marketed for damaged hair.

I washed my hair with some random shampoo (I own so many at this point - lol) and used the One n' Only Argan Oil Restorative Mask for 15 minutes while in the shower. After rinsing my hair, my coils felt SILKY! My hair loves this stuff! I never thought I'd fall in love with any other restorative mask - you know I'm faithful to the NuNaat line. A week later, I did the same process with another shampoo just to see what would happen - the key is the Argan Oil Restorative mask is like a BOOSTER to any product you combine it with. Now, I MUST use it on wash day - it literally brings your hair back to life giving you super shiny coils and great manageability.

One 'n Only Argan Oil Restorative Mask is enriched with proteins and Keratin and infused with argan oil, one of the world's rarest oils, which is derived from the Moroccan Argan Tree. It's moisturizing properties help to revive and nourish dry and damaged hair. One ’n Only® Argan Oil Restorative Mask is an intense treatment that penetrates the cuticle to help reconstruct, rebuild strength, and restore elasticity. (source)

I recommend you adding this to you weekly routine. This little secret will be your best weapon - especially if you color treat, blow-dry, and/or heat treat your hair.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

Flashback Friday: Wasn't Denise Huxtable ALL THAT!?

 

I thought today would be a great day to do a flashback! Long before Solange was shutting down these natural hair streets, Lisa Bonet, aka Denise Huxtable, had all the black girls swooning over her nuevo-boho style. Lisa Bonet's character was one that wasn't seen outside the streets of Brooklyn, where the Cosby show was based. Suddenly, her cool style was shown on screens all over the country. Brown girls were no longer looked at as 'round the way' girls, they could have a hippie style, be smart, and come from traditional families. Denise Huxtable opened the doors for a new era of individual style that hadn't been seen in a long time.

Lisa Bonet says that Denise's style was loosely based on her personal style. Although, Bonet fought hard to separate herself from her character, it's hard to remove the legacy she presented on our television screens. During the first season of the Cosby Show the costume designer was given $3000 to dress all the characters (source). Mr. Cosby wanted the family to be represented in a way that wasn't seen on black characters in  television. Each character had a unique style that fans flocked to see. 

Of course, Denise's hair was the talk of the to town. Every week, Denise would hit us with a new look. She was the first to shave her sides, rock loc extensions, wear a natural looking weave, and experiment with asymmetrical cuts. This girl was at the top of the style pyrimid and she had all the girls in America trying to keep up.

 

So, shout out to Denise Huxtable - inspiring ladies of the 80's to set their own fashion trends. Enjoy these photos of television's favorite characters.