Au Natural

Wake up, shake it and go or whatever your routine may be. This is honestly the routine I prefer. I was in a trance of thinking every section must be precise and every hair laid just right. Oh how grateful I am to be in a new frame of mind. I have learned that there is a lot of pressure in trying to portray a "look." A mane without frizz or flaw... but who really cares? I see where that expectation would be valid, however I'd rather invest my time and effort in what's real to me. What's real is the fact that my hair doesn't hold a shape once it greets steam. What's real is that my hair loves to swell.  What's real is it has a mind of it's own and I'm ok with that.

The au natural tells me what is wants to do, and I allow it. Of course if I want to put my foot down I can install a protective style that will define and maintain structure, but more often than not I don't.  I love that there are so many options with natural hair. Different looks according to the use of products and techniques.  I plan on experimenting very soon!


I'd like to know how you wear your hair. Are you natural? What are your favorite products? What is your favorite protective hairstyle? Inbox me on Facebook: Braidology SheMarie and tell me about your routine.

* Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog :)

Identify

It's always interesting to see how people will respond to hair. Even more of a spectacle if you've got a unique "situation." Talking with women quite frequently about their experience "coming into their own" has been an eye opener. To acknowledge that for so long women have been trying to fit an image of what is acceptable and identifiable is a deflating blow. Years and emotions invested into the idea someone created that to be beautiful your hair must be silky straight, to be professional perhaps a sleek bun. What about women who are above average intellectuals who can run a company, her life, and household without a flinch. The woman who dares to wear her hair loud with an afro so demanding you can't help your curiosity? Yet she knows the foundation to success. I challenge women to discover themselves.  I want little girls and young ladies to have women to admire that are like them. Women they can aspire to be. 

As a child I wanted to be different. I was probably the only bright skin at my elementary school with cornrows and beads. When it came to my hair I wanted to be out of the box. I could care less if no one understood why. This is the confidence I am building with my daughter. I tell her she's beautiful even if her hair is smashed to one side. I tell her she's beautiful even if nothing she's wearing matches. My prayer is that as she continues to deal with negative commentators she can fend for herself without feeling broken in the process. I am proud to say she has begun to defend herself and put others in their own lane.

Now, although we shouldn't live for others, just know there is always a grander scheme to things. Deciding to camouflage your true identity with expectations required of you with something as minute as your hair may do more harm than good in the long run.  If you're rocking the boat about what to do... really think about the look you are going for. The image you want to portray. Consider your position. In everything you do, you matter. Your opinions are valuable. Your contributions to the generations to come should be of truth and loyalty. Be real with yourself. Embrace all that you are, every kink, knot and curl. 

SheMarie



If you are in California looking for a natural hair stylist contact Braidology SheMarie on Facebook.

Natural Chitter Chatter

 It's been a hot topic for quite some time now... natural hair, the big chop, transitioning and protective hair styling. The acceptance has shown great progress over the last few years, and I must say I am soooooo glad about it. No matter where I turn it seems to be a topic. Either over a commercial, scanning the "ethnic section" in Target, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and I dare not forget to mention YouTube, natural hair is a pretty big deal!

I remember about 5 years ago when I noticed more and more black women with natural hair as key roles in commercials. Although there always seems to be something to criticize with the role this movement made me proud. The point is the appreciation for natural hair is booming!

When the term "natural hair' is used most people would automatically think about an afro. When I use the term I visualize options, versatility, volume and raw beauty. This includes, curls, waves, twists, braids, updos and styles of confidence and elegance.

My definition of natural hair is when hair is without chemical treatment that changes the original structure of virgin natural hair.  i.e relaxers or chemical straighteners (Don't get me wrong continuous heat can break the bonds in the hair structure which cause the hair to straighten and have a limp look.) Integrity of hair is definitely something to consider when deciding on the big chop or transitioning.

If you are interested in the big chop or transitioning consult with your stylist and make sure to mention your hair goals, and any conditions or concerns you may have with your hair journey.

Below are some natural beauties...

                                                                                                

                                                                                                                                  

If you are looking for a stylist contact Braidology SheMarie on Facebook.