I Big Chopped- Nicole

CN: When you first chopped, what were your thoughts and feelings? How do you feel now?
N: I was very nervous the day before and the day of the chop. It was weird because I’ve done this twice before in response to a bad haircut and a bad color. However, this time it was a choice. So I’m not sure if that’s what made it a little stressful or because I just turned 30 the week before. I wasn’t sure if I was having a mini mid-life crisis, or I really wanted to do this. The stylist I went to is a good friend and sorority sister who specializes in natural hair. So she was able to talk me through everything step-by-step. She gradually went lower then I realized, “Girl, you look good!” I told her to take it down! I felt totally FIERCE!!!

CN: How did you cope with the responses from your family and friends?
N: Amazingly, I’ve only had one negative response. It’s only been one day, but I received Facebook compliments on my pictures, and people texted me to tell me how good it looked which definitely made me feel great. Honestly, it surprised me too. I thought I was going to face more backlash, but I haven’t. My playsister and mother are both natural. So I’m sure they’ll love it.

CN: What are your plans for your hair?
N: I plan to keep it short for a while, then grow it out and see what my curls look like natural!

CN: Do you find it necessary to ‘doll up’ your look to feel more feminine? If so, what are your favorite accessories, or go to ways to glam up your look?
N: I am a super “girly-girl,” so big earrings and makeup are part of my regular regimen. However, I’ve been out the house plain-faced and felt just as confident. Big earrings are always fun. With a short style, you can definitely find tons of jewelry to give you an extra “pop.” I also love different types of eyeshadows such as bright, smoky, neutral and shimmery colors. Even in a rush, a sweep of liquid eyeliner and mascara can do the trick.

CN: How do you keep it moisturized?
N: Since my cut is brand new, I don’t have a great routine down yet. I recently purchased some StaSoftFro for daily use, with a little argan oil for shine.

CN: What products and techniques do you use to style? How often do you style?
N: Again, my chop is brand new so I don’t have a good routine yet. I do make sure that I apply products in a circular motion rather than combing back and forth.

CN: How do you get your waves or curls popping?
N: I like Kinky Curly Curling Custard and Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie. The Shea Moisture smells good enough to eat and is less expensive than the Kinky Curly. I like it the best so far. Both work well on my hair (not together of course).

CN: How do you preserve your curls at night?
N: I sleep on a satin pillow case unless the air in my house is kind of dry, then I also use a satin bonnet.