I’m a Wardrobe Stylist from Long Beach, CA currently living in Los Angeles, CA. I got my first perm in 4th or 5th grade, and started “going natural” after that, maybe in 7th or 8th grade. I always had my hair pressed in high school and when I moved to Tallahassee for college, got a perm again because of the humidity. I always knew once I left the humidity the perm would also be left behind.
How long have you been natural?
I’ve been natural now for 3 years.
What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
I knew I’d be leaving Tallahassee soon, so I thought I might as well start the journey now. I “transitioned” for almost 2 months and then I Big Chopped. I Big Chopped because for about a year or so, I was going back and forth with cutting my hair really short, so I thought “why not now?” I knew once all my hair grew out, I wasn’t going to want to cut off all my natural hair so I thought why not cut off all the permed hair!
How would you describe your hair?
Big, lol. My hair is thick and I have a lot of it.
What do you love most about your hair?
The versatility of it, I love that I can wear it in so many different styles.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
The best part is looking back on my journey, seeing how far I’ve come since Aug 10, 2010. I’ve had my ups and downs. I think because I was used to doing my hair when it was permed and my hair was still pretty wavy and thick, the transition to doing my hair was a lot easier. I think that’s the biggest thing people have to overcome. That, and embracing their texture.
What are some of your favorite hairstyles?
I love my fro and the funny thing is before I big chopped that was the last thing I wanted. And probably my turbans, I love to rock a turban.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
To this day my mom and grandma always say to me “I’m so glad you decided to let your hair grow out.” Like that wasn’t the plan before I big chopped. But I love when I go out wth my fro and people ask me about it or compliment it.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
Right now I mainly do wash n gos. I co-wash my hair about every 3 days or so. I don’t use shampoo unless I have to.
-Shampoo: Alaffia Shea and Honey Nourishing Shampoo
-Co-Wash: Suave Naturals – Juicy Green Apple
-DC: Giovanni’s Smooth as Silk Conditioner, Shea Moisture Kids Mango and Carrot,
-Aubrey Organics Glycogen Protein Balancing Conditioner – Rosemary Peppermint or
-Generic Value Products Conditioning Balm
-Leave-In: Giovanni’s Direct Leave In Weightless Moisture
-Oils: Coconut or Olive Oil
-Styling Products: Jane Carter’s Wrap n Roll, Jane Carter’s Moisture and Shine, Kinky Curly Gel or Eco Styler Argan Oil Gel
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
I love Taren Guy, Chime Edwards (HairCrush) and Laila (FusionofCultures)
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
Don’t give up. Really learn your hair, what works, what doesn’t work, which styles you love and can achieve with ease. Patience is key; and it really is. I went through a period where I really thought my hair wasn’t growing and for me, taking pictures really helped me see the growth. If you get frustrated look back at old pictures and you will definitely notice the change.
Do you feel sexy with a fro? How’s dating?
I think these go hand in hand. First you have to be confident in yourself whether you are rocking a TWA, twist out, an updo or a massive fro. A lot of this comes from loving yourself and loving yourself like God loves you. Confidence is the best accessory, trust me. I’m newly single and at first I thought guys would be intimidated by the massive fro lol, but I get the most approaches with the from because I’m exuding confidence. I’m all about the one God has for me, so I know if one guy won’t embrace my fro, the one He has for me will.
Where can people find you for more information?
I’m on Instagram, Twitter and Youtube: SwankStylista
