Hair Tuitorial: Bantu Knot on Dry Hair

 

 

So I decided to post a video for how I achieve my vintage inspired fluffy hair.  This video covers my Bantu Knot on dry hair from start to finish.  I have also posted a few pictures below.  I hope you enjoy it!

 

 

On to the video....

 

 

 

A few more pictures...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 Reasons I Went Natural

So I have been getting a lot of questions about my natural hair journey and why I decided to go natural so I decided to a a quick little post on why I decided to go natural...

One
I just thought that having textured hair was so versatile. If anyone knows me they know that I change my hair just as often as people change shoes. I just think that textured hair allows me to have the best of both worlds...one day I wake up and want it big and curly and the next week I may want to wear it straight the styling possibilities are pretty endless.

Two
I have been known to wear a weave or two (who am I kidding I spent most of my adult life in a weave). I had gotten so many back to back sew ins by the time I looked up I was "due" for a relaxer.  At that point I was all in.

Three
I am just as random as the weather and for the most part when I decide to do something it's usually in the moment.  So while sitting at work one day I decided after work I was going to do the big chop and that day I did it!

Four
Unlike some people I have no problem saying that I has some influence from those around me.  At the time I was surrounded by five friends who had all just recently went natural or were transitioning so I had my own little support group and that made my decision that much easier.

and that pretty much sums it up!  I haven't looked back since.

Please share your natural hair reasons/stories below!

Giveaway: Ultimate Haircare

Yes how excited am I to announce my next giveaway!  So recently I've had the great pleasure of trying the entire line of NuNAAT's Karite Special Line see post here.

So since I really liked the Karite Special Line I just thought what better way to share the love than to give one lucky winner their own set of the entire Karite Special Line! Yep I said it ...one lucky person will win all five full sized products!

Sooo down to the nitty gritty ...

How to enter: Its so simple just send me an e mail or leave a comment that gives me one word you would use to describe your hair and that's it!  If you do decide to post a comment be sure I have a way of contacting you if your selected as the winner. Send e-mails to admin@allrelevantthings.com

When to enter: This contest is going from now (August 12, 2012) until Sunday August 26, 2012 you you have an entire two weeks to let me know a word you would use to describe your hair.

What you will win:  The full sized collection of the NuNAAT Karite Special line which includes the nourishing shampoo, reconstructive conditioner, leave-in detangler, hair mask, and the anti-frizz thermo active! Whew that's a lot right ..how excited am I to be doing this giveaway.

One thing I just have to say ....this contest is NOT just for women with natural hair It's for anyone who wants to have healthy hair.  I just wanted say that creating a healthy regimen should be vital for every woman whether she is relaxed or natural so I encourage everyone to enter!

Until next time....

-A

Next on the CurlBox...

Soo as some of you know I subsribed to CurlBox ....a natural hair box subscription service (check out my initial write up here).

So this is my second month getting a CurlBox and I just wanted to share with you all what I got in my box and my opinions and thoughts about CurlBox so far....

See pictures of what I received below...

What was included in this month's box:

Sample packet of Twista Sista (which I had been dying to try)
Full sized jar of Carol's Daughter Hair Milk
Fill sized jar of Shea Butter's Coconut Curling Cream
Packet of Palmer's Olive Oil Deep Conditioner
3 packets of SofnFree (cleansing conditioner, curly pudding, curl sealer)
Monthly newsletter


My take on CurlBox so far and this months box:

Overall I am beyond satisfied with the Curlbox I received.  I think they do a great job of sharing products that fall at both ends of the price spectrum. I will say this month I was beyond surprised to see I had received a full sized Carol's Daughter products...looks like my $20 a month subscription fee was well worth it.  I was also excited to receive some products I had been itching to try (Twisted Sista) as well as some products I did not know about (Sofnfree). 

Overall if your in the market to find new products or you are a product junkie like myself I think having a CurlBox subscription is well worth the $20 fee heck I think of a lot of worst ways to spend $20.....

Product Review NuNAAT Karite Special Line

It's been a while since I took the time to review a line of hair products so I am pretty excited about this review. Over the past week I have been using the brand NuNAAT Karite Special line.

So down to the nitty gritty....

I tried just about the entire Karite Special line which included a Nourishing Shampoo, Reconstructive Conditioner, Leave in Detangler, Hair Mask, and the Anti-Frizz Thermo Active.


Nourishing Shampoo
So with all of my hair regimen I always start with the shampoo.  The Karite Special shampoo was great, my hair usually feels slightly dried out after a good cleansing shampoo (which is why I deep condition a lot).  However, with the Karite shampoo my hair was left feeling very soft and my ringlets (curls) were pretty defined. The actually product felt pretty light and I look for that in a cleansing shampoo.  Let me tell you I was feeling so good about my hair I actually did my first wash and go lol.  In addition to the softness of my hair it also smelled great!

Reconstructive Conditioner
Okay so for me this conditioner proved to be very light.  With water as the conditioners primary ingredient (meaning it's listed first on the bottle).  I have used the conditioner in two ways as an immediate wash out and as a deep conditioner.  I will say I prefer this conditioner as an immediate rinse out.  It left my hair feeling very soft which is usually only something I get after about 15 mins of letting the conditioner sit in my hair.  So overall I did really like it, if your looking for an immediate rinse out conditioner then this would definitely be one to try.

Leave in Detangler
Let me just start with the word GREAT!  First of all I have say that I have been trough my share of leave in detangler/conditioners and it's been a love hate journey. Normally I steer clear of leave in's because my hair is left feeling a little crunchy and like it has way to much product in it.  However I am infatuated with this detangler, my hair was left feeling very soft and was super easy to do my detangling process and I loved it.  This detangler will be one to stick around in my regimen.

Hair Mask
So I ended up using the Hair Mask two different ways.  First I used it as a co-wash conditioner and second I used it as a deep conditioner (I placed a cap over my head and sat under the dryer for about 20 minutes).  Needless to say my hair felt so refreshed after applying the hair mask.  I am really big on my hair not feeling like it is overloaded with product and this is one of those masks that fits right in to my preference for products.  My curls were very defined upon rinsing the mask out and I loved it.

Anti-Frizz Thermo Active
So I really didn't get a chance to use this because I haven't put any heat on my hair (it works as a heat protector in some sense).  However I do plan on blowing my hair out in the next few days so I promise I will do a follow up post and discuss this.


And that pretty much sums it up....Overall I think if you are looking for a line of great products, that will leave your hair feeling soft to touch and moisturized  the Karite Special line would be a great choice.  I know for sure they have earned a new fan (me).  If you have any questions about the products or want to know about my experience further feel free to contact me or leave a comment below.


Now for the really good stuff.....
Just as a heads up I will be posting my next giveaway in a few days and the winner will receive their own collection of the entire Karite Special line so stay tuned!!!!

Cupcakes and Curlz Recap

So my big event came and went and it was great!  Cupcakes & Curlz was this past Saturday and it was a blast!  There were giveaways, gift bags, desserts, and most of all conversations!  See pictures below for a recap of the event and also a look at what I wore...


Look of the Day....

Photos from the event...

The Gift Bags that guests received

Mixing and Mingling

Bags on display

 

Giveaway #1

Some of the ladies who attended

Giveaway #2

Giveaway #3

Giveaway #4

 

Overall I had a blast on Saturday and I can't wait until I host the next event....Curls and Conversations sometime towards the end of August/beginning of September.

Hair of the day: All Pinned Up

In the spirit of protective styling I decided that I was going to wear my hair up.  Keep in mind that this updo is a couple of days old.  This updo was created from a super old flat twist out that was done on wet hair. 

Tuesday Chic Spotlight: Angela S.

Okay so I am beyond excited about this week's Tuesday Chic Spotlight...talk about back to back fabulous style!  This week's feature is coming to us from Kansas City, MO (woot woot!) and is someone I think truly walks to their own beat.  Tuesday Chic:

{Angela S.}



On Hair...

What is your "Hair Anthem"?
"My hair anthem would definitely be “I do my thang” by Janelle Monae and Estelle, because it truly does whatever it wants. Lol."

What is your favorite hairstyle to rock and why?
"My favorite style to rock is an old, stretched out twist or braid out. It gives me that Diana Ross fierceness I adore!"

Give me three words you would use to describe your hair?
“Thick, kinky, and BIG!”

What have you been doing to maintain healthy hair?
"I try to have a healthy diet and drink more water primarily; I take multivitamins, and I try to keep my hair moisturized and well-conditioned. I also do not use heat on my hair. I’ve flat-ironed and blow-dried my hair twice since I’ve BC’d."

So, when and why did you decide to go natural?

"I have been natural two years and four months. I never intended to ‘go natural’. I initially stopped relaxing my hair because I was a broke college student who didn’t have the money to get my hair done at the salon and trimmed like I wanted, and I didn’t want to use a “box perm.” While straightening my own hair, a friend suggested ‘going natural’ and I began researching on Google and Youtube (I had already been watching several makeup vloggers), and started leaning towards ending my “creamy crack” addiction permanently. I hated the fact that I didn’t feel presentable or complete without straight hair. I’d avoid going out in public just because I saw a small amount of “new growth” in my hair, so I decided that it was time for me to accept and embrace my hair in its natural state."

What is the most unexpected thing you have experienced since becoming natural?
"The most unexpected thing I’ve experienced is, hands down, other women seeing me as an “inspiration.” It’s very humbling."

What advice would you give to someone who is newly natural or considering going natural?
"No matter how you wear your hair, ROCK IT WITH CONFIDENCE! Don’t let your hair to solely define you, and don’t define others by something that simply grows out of their head. It is JUST HAIR :)"

On Fashion and other things....

Give me one beauty product you cannot live without?
"My Ambi Even & Clear face moisturizer! Not only does it keep my skin hydrated, it evens its tone and has SPF 40 in it. We have to take care of our skin, ladies!"

If you had to pick what are the top three pieces in your wardrobe?
"Top three pieces in my wardrobe right now are: My Toms, large Bohemian earrings, and ALL of my maxi dresses. I’m obsessed. Lol"

What would you say your fashion style was?
"My style is predominately Bohemian Chic, with a hint of Hipster. I’m pretty simple."

While were talking about your personal style, if you had to choose what would you say your favorite bag and shoes are?
"My favorite bag is a stitched, color-blocked bag I found at Forever XII and my favorite shoes are my Rocket Dog combat boots!"

What is your favorite fashion trend of 2012?
"Hmm…I’m going to go with maxi dresses and color blocking. Maxi dresses fit my slim frame perfectly, and color blocking really allows you to step outside of traditional color relationships and be creative with your pieces."

And there you have it!  Angela is a pretty cool chick with GREAT hair! 

If you would like to be featured in the Tuesday Chic Spotlight Series simply send an e-mail to admin@allrelevantthings.com

Tuesday Chic Spotlight: Toni R.

{Toni R.}

Okay guys...this Tuesday Chic spotlight feature is long overdue...and I am very excited to post this week's feature.  This week's Tuesday Chic feature is Toni R. from Kansas City, MO.

 

On Hair...

What is your "Hair Anthem"?

I would have to say "Golden" by Jill Scott.

What are three words you use to describe your hair?

Absolutely gorgeous, curly, and free!

What have you been doing to maintain healthy hair?

I believe in paying close attention to my hair, taking time with it and being gentle with it has contributed to the healthiness of my hair.

What is your favorite hairstyle to rock?

A three to four day old twist out.

What is the best part about having textured hair?

I absolutely LOVE the versatility of my natural hair.  I can wear it straight, curly, or even in a fro!

How long have you been natural and what made you go natural?

I think it is important for me to say that when I did get a relaxer I did not get them religiously (maybe three times a year).  I started transitioning into being natural 2 years ago and I have been fully natural for one year this month (July).

On Fashion and other things...

What is one beauty product you cannot live without?

Eyebrow powder/pencil.  I just think eyebrows frame the face and polishes any look.

What would you say your fashion style was?

Aztec meets Retro Chic.

Favorite Bag and Shoes?

Studded faux leather bag and my nude Aldo wedges.

What is your favorite fashion trend of 2012?

Color blocking!

What are three things that are always in your purse?

Umm..lip gloss, money, and hand sanitizer.

And that wraps it up! Thanks Toni...I love your Retro chic/Aztec style!

If you would like to be featured in the Tuesday Chic Spotlight Series simply send an e mail to admin@allrelevantthings.com

Something worth entering....

So when I checked my e-mail I noticed that Naturally Curly was doing a "Beat the Heat" 16 days of giveaways contest.  I figured it would only be right to spread the word because they are giving away some REALLY great products  I mean so good I may just come back each day and enter.  Entering each days giveaway is simple, they just ask for your name, e-mail, phone number, and zip code and your in there!  So if you have a minute take some time to enter the contests...what's there to lose?  Also I must stress you don't have to be natural to use great products that helps our hair to be healthy.  So click the link above and let me know if any of you win!

Oh yea did I mention that they are doing a grand prize valued at over $1200!  So each time you enter the daily giveaway you putting your name in the grand prize giveaway. See picture below for what you would get:

Credit

July Curlbox!!!!

So for those of you who didn't know I signed up for the first natural hair "sample" subscription service CurBox.  The totally have a waiting list to join the service but once you get on you pay $20 (shipping included) a month and every month you get a box filled with sample (and sometimes full size) of natural hair products.  The good thing about CurBox is that not only do they send you brands that we all know about they also send you samples of up an coming brands.  So for a product junkie like myself this is the best things smoking.  If your interested in subscribing to CurlBox check out their website here: http://curlbox.com/

On to what this month's box included:

So this month's box included two full sized bottles of Motions Naturally You collection (a Shampoo and a Conditioner).  I haven't used anything from the Motions natural line so this was helpful (I will do a review soon on these products).

Second, it included a sample sized bottle of Jane Carter's Condition and Sculpt.  This is a product you would put on your hair when doing a wash and go.  If anyone knows I love love love Jane Carter's wrap and roll (I live by it). So I am sooo excited this was included so I could try it out.

Next, they sent a 2oz jar of Shea Radiance's Nourishing Hair Repair Cream (with Shea Butter).  I have not yet tried this product but I am excited about try it.




Lastly,  there was a packet of Light Pink oil moisturizer.  This used to be one of my go to products back in my relaxed days (My mom is natural and she swears by it).  So when I saw this was included in my box I immediately opened it and applied it to my thirsty hair ha ha ...need I say more.

In addition to all of the great products my CurBox also included some great coupons to Sage NatualCeuticals, Jane Carter, and ily.  The box included a product guide and the monthly CurlBox newsletter.  Overall I am beyond satisfied with my July CurlBox and I would suggest any natural wanting to try new products without having to buy full size all of the time to sign up for CurlBox heck I can think of worst ways we all spend $20!

Beating the Heat: Tips and Syles to Keep Your Hair Cool This Summer



Credit



Yes it's hot outside, you know it, I know it, but most of all our hair knows it.  If your hair is anything like mines then it is thirsty!  This summer my hair has been soaking up moisture faster than I can pump it out.  So how to keep hair cool this summer?  What styles can you rock to help your hair?  That's what this post is all about.


Tips for keeping hair "cool" this summer:

Don't be afraid to make those twist outs last by adding a turban
We all know the turban look has been on the scene for a while now.  Spice up your wardrobe and extend the life of your twist out by adding a turban and pulling some hair out it the front. (check out how I rocked a turban in the picture below, it's an older picture don't be alarmed).

Wash your hair after swimming
I know this pretty much goes with out explanation but I am going to go on record an add the word immediately to this phrase.  A lot of times we get a little lazy but I suggest shampooing your hair immediately after putting your water in any chlorine or salt-filled water.

Deep condition often
Pick a day any day and make it your day to deep condition!  Do this every week in my opinion to help retain the moisture in your hair. 

Rock some braids
Braids are almost always the perfect solution for protective styling.  Be sure the braider is generous around your edges so that they are taken care of...can't have you losing your edges.  Be sure to moisturize your hair even while braided.

And some simple styles for the summer...

Turban with hair out..

Side Puff....just puff period

Braided and Twisted out...

A Little Self Promotion Never Hurts....

Sooo I am super excited to announce that I will be hosting my first natural hair meetup in Jacksonville, FL!  On July 28th I will be hosting Cupcakes and Curls, a causal meet and greet/mixer.  I am really excited about the event and everyone that has RSVP to attend.  So if your in Jacksonville or not too far away I say come out and have a great time.  The event is absolutely free and I would love to see you there!

See the flyer for the event below (Yeah I did it myself lol and I am darn proud ha ha):

Tuesday Chic Spotlight: Lily

It's Tuesday!  This week's Tuesday Chic Spotlight is Lily.  She is naturally fab and loving it.  Check her out.

{Lily}

On Hair...

1) What is your "Hair Anthem"?
Unpredictable by Jamie Foxx

2) What are three words to describe your hair?
I would have to say thick, bold, and beautiful.

3) What is your favorite hairstyle to rock?
I would have to say the twist/braid out and the puff, they are my go-to's.

4) What have you been doing to maintain healthy hair?
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize...protective styling, oh yeah did I say moisturize? Lol. I co-wash just about every day except when I am being lazy.  I try to eat healthy and also incorporate large quantities into my diet.

5) What is the best part about having textured hair?
Definitely the versatility.

6) How long have you been natural and what made you go natural?
I've been natural about 17 months.  I decided to go natural after I realized that it was pointless to relax my hair.  I am an islander and I could never find the right hairdresser.  My hair would become dry with no movement soon after my relaxer application I decided to cut and color...which was more so out of frustration. My hair began to shed profusely and had stopped growing in length.  That's when I put my foots down and said no more,  I put some thought into the whole transition and decided to make it a reality in the new year 2011, it was there that I realized that health was a key part in growing and retaining length, ever since then I have been in love with my curly, coily, wave mane and I've  never regretted the decision!

7) What is the most unexpected thing you have experienced with your hair?
I'd have to sat TEXTURE! That was the one thing that never crossed my mind, that I would be dealing with multiple textures and although it gets frustating at times I have learned different ways to deal with it. The front of my hair is like a loose wave and the back and nape is a mix between curls and coils which makes it difficult to have the perfect wash ans go {sigh}.


On Fashion and Beauty...

8) Name one product that you cannot live without? Why?
Lip gloss/balm.  My lips are the kind that can't go on without being unnoticed so it is essential that they are mositureized.

9) Name three things that are always in your purse?
Lip gloss, gum, and money (pocket change lol).

10) Favorite bag and shoes?
Bag? I am not really a fan but I do like wedge heels even though I don't wear them often.

11) What is your favorite fashion trend of 2012?
Animal Print.

12) Anything else you want to add?
Thanks for having me on your blog.  Your awesome *wink wink*!


And there you have it! Lily!

If you would like to be featured in the Tuesday Chic Spotlight series please send an e-mail to admin@allrelevantthings.com


  

Hair in the nude...hair update and mini look of the day

Okay so this past weekend I decided to attend a natural hair event that was taking place in Jacksonville....the event didn't quite turn out as expected but I did meet a few new curlies and that is always exciting.

So I figured I could do a hair update...I will post some pictures of my hair after shampooing with no product on it and few of how it is when it was dry. Since I am in the spirit of posting pictures I will do a couple of my look for that day (nothing special lol).


Hair in the nude:

Dry Twist Out

My new curly friends....

On my look for that day....

Peach Colored Shirt - Forever 21
Army Green Shorts - Forever 21
Leopard Wedges - Strawberry
Jewelry - Forever 21