Check Out My #HairStory on the IAM MY Hair Blog!

I'm so excited to have been featured on the IAM MY HAIR Blog to share my #HairStory!  The creator, Janae, is a sweetheart, and I was lucky enough to have met her at #Curlfest. :)

Anywho, make sure you swing by the IAM MY HAIR Blog, and check out my feature. :)

Until next time,

Ashley, xo.

Make sure you swing by the IAM MY HAIR Blog to check out my feature as well as some other naturalistas, tips, and advice.  Do you have any questions for me about my feature?  Comment below!

Curlfest: The Ultimate Summer Picnic

Curlfest, Prospect Park, BK 2014

On Sunday, June 22nd, a couple of friends and I packed a blanket and some snacks en route to Prospect Park, Brooklyn for Curlfest.  Curlfest is described by the Curly Girl Collective as "the ultimate summer picnic" where you go to enjoy music, games, vendors, and the company of your friends and fellow curly girls.

Spotlight Monday: Andria

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Andria; I'm from Chicago, but I hope to move to New York in the near future.  I want to become an editor for Vogue or Teen Vogue.  I'm a very shy person and become really reserved in huge crowds.

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> I have been natural for a year and a half.  It will be two years in July!  I don't hair type because I can never find my hair on those darn charts, but I would fall in the 3 range.  Part of my hair is wavy with spirals at the end and other parts are just spirals.  My edges don't really curl at all; they (for the most part) stay semi-private, which is why it's so easy to lay my edges down.  The front of my hair doesn't have deep waves like the rest of my hair. 

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned but wanted to big chop so bad, but my mother wouldn't allow it.  Had I been who I am now, I wouldn't have listened and just went for it lol.  Hair played a big part of who I was; I was always that dark skinned girl with "good hair".  So when I told my mother I wanted to cut my hair off, she had a fit and gave me an either or situation.  So, I waited until my hair was to my ear and cut it.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?

> I was so excited when I saw my curls.  I wasn't a child getting relaxers when I was younger, but I always got my hair pressed, which damaged my curls.  I remember growing my hair out and posting it on hair blogs asking my type, and I would always get that it wasn't my real curl pattern, and that I was black so my hair would be much nappier than that 4 inches of growth I had.  Funny thing-- that was really my hair texture.  Either way, I was willing to accept whatever grew from my head.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?

> When I cut my hair I felt so happy because I did it for me.  I didn't care about how long my hair was; I didn't even do it for the health of my hair.  I just wanted my hair to be curly.  When I wore my first wash n go I was so excited; I didn't care that it stopped at my ears!  I loved my curls.

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> Cantu Shea Butter leave-in repair cream, Shea moisture curl enhancing smoothie, Eco Styler Gel

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> My go-to styles would have to be braids, buns, and wash n gos.

What is a haircare lesson that you'd share with someone who wants to go natural?

> One hair care lesson I've learned is to NOT FOLLOW HAIR TRENDS!  I can't stress this enough.  I do not believe in only buying products geared towards African Americans, nor do I believe in not clarifying your hair with a shampoo.

What are your hair goals?

> I just want my hair to remain healthy and to grow out.  I recently cut it just because, so now I just want to get back to the length it was before.  Anything longer would be a bonus.

How do you feel about your hair today?

> Since I cut it and it's growing out, I'm back in the "awkward stage".  But I have to say I'm enjoying it.  I didn't realize how much I missed my hair at this length.

Instagram: anicolec_

YouTube: andriachildress

Do you have any questions for Andria about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Courtney

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Courtney and I was born and raised in Dallas, TX.  I graduated from Prairie View A&M University in May 2011 where I received a B.A. in Accounting.  I’ve been working in Finance for almost 3 years now.  However, I’m currently changing my career field and going into nursing.  I realized quickly the cubicle life is not for me and I need to do something that allows me to help and interact with people (nursing was my original major at PV haha).

My Skincare Routine for Combination Oily Skin Types (Part 2)

My Skin as of June 2014

Hey all!  I've updated my original skincare post, which includes the products and tools that I use on the daily to cleanse my skin, fade old scars, and moisturize.  However, this post is to tell you about the extras that I didn't include on the first post!

Guest Editor: 3 Awesome Summer Trends

Hello everyone!  It’s Jair from fashionroyaltyblog.wordpress.com, and I’m back to share three awesome fashion trends that will be in this summer.  The summer is the perfect time to wear effortless and bold looks, while staying cool and confident.  Summer is right around the corner and we are all wondering what are some awesome trends we can indulge in.  Well, I am excited to bring you three amazing and easy trends you can sport this summer.

Spotlight Monday: Qubilah

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Qubilah, but I like to go by Lady/Sister Shabazz.  I am a recent graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill, and I am currently interning with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington, D.C.  In the meantime, I’m looking for employment in the non-profit or public service sector.

My Thoughts on BeautyConNYC

Last week, I was chosen by @BrandingMuse on Instagram to attend BeautyConNYC.  BeautyCon is a "fashion and beauty summit for the internet's most influential and everyone who's obsessed with them!" (http://www.beautycon.com/about/).  This year, it was held at at Pier 36, which is way downtown.  It seemed like fun at first, but I wasn't impressed.

Spotlight Monday: Nisha

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Nisha and I am a third-year graduate student, currently studying Criminology and Justice Specialization. I am 23 years old and I love all natural everything!

My Daily Skincare Regimen for Combination Oily Skin Types (UPDATED)

If you haven't heard: flawless makeup starts with GREAT skin!  I can't tell you all how many times I've been standing at a makeup counter, waiting for help, and heard how gorgeous and smooth my skin was, which honestly came as a shocker to me.  I didn't think I had great skin-- due to an occasional dark spot or breakout, keyword being occasional-- but from everyone else, I clearly had some damn good skin.  I pride myself in taking care of me-- my hair and skin included.

MY Preference Between Aussie Moist & Hello Hydration Conditioners

In all honesty, this was not a PJ moment; I was in desperate need to find a new detangling conditioner.  I had been using the Tresemme Naturals conditioner, but I noticed that it was no longer working for me.  My detangling sessions took longer than usual and my hair felt dry after using it.  I honestly think my hair had gotten used to it.

Check Me Out on FashionRoyaltyBlog.Wordpress.Com With 3 Spring/Summer Trends!

Hey all!  This is just a quick post to tell you about my feature on FashionRoyaltyBlog.Wordpress.Com.  This time, I'm highlighting what I think will be the most common, yet fun, trends for this Spring/Summer.

The chosen trends are very simple to do and can be pulled off by anyone, which is why I love them!  So let's get those pouts, flirty eyes, and flawless complexions ready! ;)

Best,

Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for me about the Spring/Summer Trends?  If so, comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Isabel

Tell us about yourself.
> I’m a New York City native, and a recent Syracuse University graduate.  I studied Television-Radio-Film, and I will be pursuing a career in film production.

Tips on Making That Mani Last

'Butler Please' by Essie, May 2014

Aside from having a really good nail technician, there are some things that you can do to extend the staying power of your mani.  I know a lot of women tend to shy away from manis because of the quick chipping time, but I'm here to save the day (and possibly) your pockets!

My Favorite Beauty Essentials (Summer Edition)

Hey all!  I just wanted to drop in and share my summer beauty essentials with you all.  With summer around the corner, it is important that we lighten up our makeup bags by putting some products on the back shelf, and utilizing other items to keep us fresh and flawless at all times.

Check Me Out on FashionRoyaltyBlog.WordPress.Com!

Hey beautiful people!  This is a quick post to tell you about my feature on FashionRoyaltyBlog.wordpress.com.  My friend, Jair, is the creator, and asked me to share some easy products to use during spring/summer since no one wants to spend so much time doing hair during warmer temps; I definitely have to agree with this.

Aside from beauty, my friend Jair has a keen eye for fashion, styling, and trends, and offers great advice and insight on the industry.  She is able to put together some fab pieces and I definitely encourage you all to swing by and take a look!

If you have any questions, you can reach Jair via email (jneverson1004@gmail.com) or twitter @FPR_Royalty!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for myself or Jair?  If so, comment below, OR shoot us an email!

A Transitioner's Point of View: Niaya

Tell us about yourself.
> Hi Guys :), My name is Niaya.  I was born and raised in NYC.  I am a currently a first year graduate student, and I love, live, and breathe all things fashion.

Spotlight Monday: Stephanie

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Stephanie, but everyone calls me Steph.  I'm 20 years old from NYC!  I am the youngest out of 6 girls and I'm always getting picked on lol.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> June 2nd will make 2 years of me being natural.  The top of my hair is 3c and I would say the back and sides are 4a-4b.  I love my hair, but I'm still trying to figure out what to do because the top of my hair has looser curls than the rest.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned for a little while during my first year of college.  One day, I decided to just cut it all off.  I could have transitioned longer, but I was far too anxious to feel my hair texture and not have to worry about my natural hair and the permed hair, too.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?

> When I big chopped on June 2,2012, I was terrified!  My mom made it even harder.  I thought she would be so supportive of my decision, but she wasn't.  She told me she didn't like it and that I looked like a little boy.  Feelings hurt much?  Yes!

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?

> Above all of that, I was so in love with my little afro lol.  I washed it every single day to keep my curls poppin'. 

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> My favorite products now would have to be anything from the Shea Moisture line, as well as Curls Unleashed.

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> I don't think I have any go-to hairstyles, but I do like putting my hair up in a puff, or a twist across the front and my puff in the back.

What is a haircare lesson that you've learned that you'd be willing to share with someone who wants to go natural?

> I think a really important lesson is don't go natural in hopes of having hair like someone else.  You will come into the natural hair world hating yourself.  Your hair is YOUR HAIR and only your hair.  Your hair is unique and you should love it regardless whether it's kinky, coily, curly, or very loosely curled.  It'll be hard at first, but I think it gets easier with time.

What are your hair goals?

> My hair goal would probably be to get BSL (bra strap length) but above all else I just want to maintain healthy, natural hair.  Keep in mind that Black hair does grow!

How do you feel about your hair today?

> Being almost 2 years natural, it's the best decision I've ever made, I lovvvvvveeeee my hair, and I love everything about this little natural hair movement that keeps growing.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Stephanie about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Kenvi

Tell us about yourself.

> My name Kenvi (IG: naturallykenvi) & I am from Houston, TX.  I am a girly girl that loves shopping, natural hair & everything beauty!  I am currently preparing to apply to Physical Therapy school with hopes of graduating & owning my own physical therapy clinic.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> I decided to go natural by accident.  As a college undergrad, I didn't have time to keep up with my hair so I stopped getting relaxers.  Once I stopped, I fell in love with my natural hair pattern.  After a year without chemicals, I cut my relaxed ends off & became fully natural.  That was January 2011 & I have been natural ever since.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned with my hair because I was too afraid to do the big chop.  However, I had no fears about going natural.  I liked my hair, so that was all that mattered to me.  I get more compliments on my hair now than I ever did while getting relaxers.  

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> My favorite hair products are virgin coconut oil, African Pride leave-in conditioner & Shea Moisture's kids shampoo & conditioner just to name a few. ;)

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> My go-to styles are twist outs, flat twist outs on a blow out & my all time favorite is a big, curly bun. 

What is a haircare lesson that you've learned that you'd be willing to share with someone who wants to go natural?

> One lesson I've learned is that you have to be a product junkie.  You have to try different products to see what does & doesn't work for your hair.  No two naturals have the exact same hair.  Find out what works for your hair & rock it! 

What are your hair goals?

> My natural hair goal is to always have healthy hair.  Of course, we all want long or "big" hair, but your hair must be healthy in order to reach those lengths.

How do you feel about your hair today?

> I love my hair.  My hair is constantly changing & I love the fact that I have so much versatility with my hair.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Kenvi about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Bentonite Clay Review by Melissa

Melissa & 'Le Puff Zaddy' the day after the Bentonite Clay use, a bigger & more defined 'Le Puff Zaddy'

Melissa has previously appeared on Curls Fo' The Girls as a Spotlight Monday feature.  This time, she's bringing a product review on a natural clay that can be used to cleanse and help define curls!

Product: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay - Bentonite clay ($4.99, Vitamin Shoppe)

Why did I purchase this product?
> I decided to buy this clay because of all the amazing and satisfied reviews I read and heard from so many different people (on and offline).  When I heard that your hair gets so clean that your curls soften and become more defined, I said "that's it, I have to try it!"  The clay is fairly inexpensive so I was lucky enough to purchase a pound from the Vitamin Shoppe for only $4.99!  I have had so many failed attempts at trying to define my curls with different products and retain the definition after my hair dried, that I was becoming discouraged.  After detoxing with the Bentonite Clay, I was absolutely more in love with my hair than ever!  I didn't even need anything else in my hair after I used it.  I was really impressed with the results and happy that those reviews steered me in the right direction.

Clay Mix and Application

> I measured each ingredient by eye instead of precise measurements.  Luckily, I've been managing to make the exact amount for one use-- not too much and not too little.

I mixed the clay powder, some castor Oil, aloe vera juice and apple cider vinegar together because this is what works for my hair.  I used the castor oil to give my hair a little more moisture, but you can use any oil that works for you.  This mixture works better than water and the clay alone.  The ACV also made a fizzing sound when it touched the powder!  I highly recommend that you don't use water and the clay alone because there is a possibility of dryness.  However, everyone's hair is different!  When you mix the clay, do not use metal bowls and utensils because the chemical reaction can actually mess up your dishes.  I used a plastic bowl and a plastic spoon until I got a heavy paste.  I sprayed my hair with some water and aloe juice.  Then, I applied the clay section by section-- from the back of my head to the front.  I applied it from my scalp to the ends of my hair almost like I was applying a relaxer LOL.  I also made sure to rub the mixture along my scalp to ensure that my hair and scalp were as clean as possible.  When I was done, I applied a little more to my edges and then I let the clay sit until it was about 80% dry.  I left it in for a little over an hour, but you can leave it in for as little or as much time as you want.  Your hair will start to get hard while the mixture is drying, but once it's time to rinse, it will come right out!  I rinsed my hair in the shower and refrained from disturbing my curls until I saw clear water.  This knocked out the shampooing and conditioning process!  However, I did do a deep conditioning treatment to add more moisture although my hair was super soft.

Results & Recommendation

post treatment

> When I was done, it was safe to say that my hair was amazeballs!  It felt really soft, my coily curls popped, and I saw definition I had  never seen before.  I cowash more than I shampoo, but after using this, I do not think I will ever buy shampoo again.  I like the fact that it's a natural powder from the earth (literally from deposits in the ground from old volcanic ash) and you can use it as a weekly facial and body detox, a twice a month hair detox, to remove dead skin from your feet and calm bug bites, stomach aches, etc.!  It balances the pH in your hair, removes toxins and product buildup from shampoos, conditioners and other products, and it releases minerals in your hair.  It does a lot for $5 so I definitely recommend that every natural try this hair detox at least once.  I am a frugal person, and I am happy that I found something very affordable and simple to add to my already simple regimen.  I believe your wallet and hair will thank you if you use this clay.  I now have hope my first "wash and go" instead of a "wash and no".

Do you have any questions for Melissa about the Bentonite Clay detox?  Comment below!