Nappy and the City

Let the Loc Journey Begin

2013-05-08T00:13:00.000-05:00

Hey Lovies!

I've been considering Loc'ing my hair for a very long time. Even before I went natural, I knew I wanted to loc my hair sometime in my life. In college, I was too afraid to cut my hair and start from the bottom, but I've finally decided its time.

Originally, I considered Sisterlocks, but I decided that because of the related cost (for both the installation and upkeep) and the fact that maintaining 400+ locs would mean I would no longer be self-sufficient when it comes to my hair, and that goes completely against one of my reasons for going Natural. Why go from doing my own natural hair for 5+ years, to go back to sitting in someones chair paying upwards of $150 per visit....THE DEVIL!!! I refuse.

So...anty-way, I decided that being a DIY Loc'er would be the perfect approach for me. Because of the length of my hair, and because I didn't want my hair to take over a year to even start the locing process, I started my locs with Two-Strand Twists on April 30th. Nothing fancy, nothing special, but so far I'm in love and I'm ready for the journey to begin.


End of Week 1 of my Loc Journey

When I started my Natural Hair Journey back in 2008, I spoke about my plans for the upkeep of my hair and my plans on how to grow it out...I'm not even about to start that madness with my Loc Journey. I just plan on enjoying the ride. But don't be mistaken, I will be back to my YouTube and Blog searches for fellow loc'ers. There's nothing like community when it comes to journeys (both hair and life related), and I'm excited to see what this journey will reveal about myself and my hair.

Nappy Growing,

Tie Me Up, Tie Me Down

2013-04-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I know: Kinky Title...sometimes.

Often times, being natural causes us to be Day-Before Hair Doers. It's almost impossible for us to style our hair quickly, especially when we're in a rush. I know this may not apply to everyone, but for the ladies with thick, long, 4a/b hair, I know you feel me.

I've had two go-to styles to help with conquer my battle with quick-styling: (1) The Secretary Updo (you've seen the two large flat-twist styles...well, that), and (2) Turbans and Headwraps.

There are some straight up FUNKY ways to your head with headwraps, and I don't claim to be a Master of Creativity when it comes to my wraps, but I've narrowed down a few favorites that I needed to share with ya'll. I hope you try them.

Turban using a thin pashmina

I hope this gives you a little inspiration on ways to rock your turbans and head ties. I'm so in love with them, I've even been shopping for material just to use as headwraps.

Nappy Growing,

Quetta

Long Overdue Update

2013-04-28T02:33:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone in Nappy City!

It's been a very long time since I've reached out to you just to say hi and update you on me and my hair. I've really missed blogging, and I think I may be ready to get back in the swing of all things hair.

One year is a mighty long time in hair years. It's been quite some time since my last post, and I just wanted to try to give you an overview of my hair since December 2011...whew chile! That's gonna be a beast to do, but I'll see what pictures I can dig up for ya'll. Thank God for Facebook and Instagram...it may be easier than I think...

Since I've last updated, I've moved to Chicago. Yeah ya'll...North Carolina wasn't my speed, and I had to make yet another city change. I know the blog is titled Nappy and the City, and since my city keeps changing, I know it might be a little hard to keep up with my antics, but hey...Chicago might not be the final destination either. I'll update you guys more on me at a later date...let's move on to hair:

July 2011 at my Family's Reunion in Charlotte, NC

March 2012 - My Birthday Celebration

April 2012 - Downtown Chicago falling in love with DuSable's face! ;-)

December 2012 - Straightened and Chopped 4-5 inches of hair (will post more about later)

March 2013 - Braidout after the above haircut. iLoved it!

So yeah, there's been a few changes. A few chops. A few different hair decisions...but I'm still Nappily in Love with my hair! The very last real hair update, I was excited about loc'ing my hair. And at that time, I decided to wait on that, but I'm ready (a year and a half later).

There's so much more I'll be sharing with you. More updating and catching you up will come, but for now. That's all folks. TTYL!

Nappy Growing!

-Quetta

Sears: Winter Steals!

2011-12-20T23:23:00.002-06:00

Guess who's back with some hot pieces for your wardrobe this season...Sears! That's right, thanks to the Kardashian line and Apostrophe, Sears is really stepping up their game with some must-have pieces!!! I have to admit that I haven't been Sears in a VERY long time, but this recent visit was worth the stop!

With it being Christmas, I had to pick up a few things as gifts for my sisters, so Apostrophe didn't disappoint with their selection. For one of my sisters, I grabbed her the cutest cream and tan drape front sweater (so cute that I grabbed one for myself)! It's the perfect piece to have in your collection for winter.

This winter trend was definitely a steal. When you compare this piece for $42.00 with other designer's prices of upwards of $300.00, who wouldn't agree that this sweater is a worthy buy? Oh, and if $42 is a little pricey for you, it's on sale for $24.00...(you're welcome)!!

I also found a skirt...again for myself...to wear as a layered look for the winter, and a perfect skirt for the summer too! For a winter look, I would pair this skirt with a black tank, denim jacket, and a tan riding boot. This skirt was on sale for a wonderful price of $24.00

More Giuseppe Zanotti...

My shopping experience in Sears was definitely a trip worth taking. For the low prices of these two awesome pieces, I won't need to open a line of credit to finish my Christmas shopping.

Merry Christmas ya'll!!!

Note: I received samples from the searsStyle Apostrophe Collection to review as part of the Glam Trendsetter Program. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Sears.

Signature Hair: Twist Out

2011-08-07T22:15:00.001-05:00

You guys have seen me do a million and 7 twist outs, and none of them have looked the same. I've noticed that my hair length, thickness, the weather, styling technique and products and play a significant role in how my twist out turns out. For this twist out, I revisited an old favorite to style with: Oyin Handmade's Shine and Define. This product gives me my most defined twist outs and I love how shiny it leaves my hair; plus, its not flaky, hard, and it mixes well with other products.

I also used Carol's Daughter's Mimosa Honey hair dress to add moisture and a little more added shine.

Texture Shot

~Nappy Growing

Decade Inspired Hair

2011-07-15T19:21:00.000-05:00

Natural hair, contrary to some people's belief, can be styled very formally and professionally. There is a place for natural hair in the workplace, at gala functions, and yes, at weddings too! As a matter-of-fact, natural hair to me, screams elegance. Especially when you think back to styles for the ages.

1930's
In the 1930's, one of the most popular hairstyles for women was pin curls and finger waves. Considering both styles have lasted throughout the decades, they most have been pretty classic. Of the two, pin curls remain to be a popular style to wear to weddings, proms, and other formal events for both naturals and relaxed divas alike.

Pic 1&2: Pin curls achieved with Twists on Natural hair
credits: Naturally You-The Hair Journey

1940's Hair

The 1940's was a time for do rags, ringlet curls, and chignons. Pin curls still conquered the hair scene, but pressed and processed hair started to reign supreme. However, my favorite styles from this era are the chignon and buns. Let's take a look at some 1940's styles that can be achieved wit natural hair:

Flat twists on sides w/bun. Style worn to work, but would be great as a formal style, just add a flower.

Chignon and a HAWT feathered flower!

1950's

Conk for men and shiny slick back styles were the trend in the 1950s. Rock and roll was the new craze on the music scene and the doo-wop groups were the Trey Songz of the time. The style that was most popular during this time was the Pompadour.

Natural hair can be flawless at any age, in any style, and from any era. Choose your favorite, and rock it out!

-Nappy Growing!

Mini Twists: Twist Out Results

2011-07-14T11:26:00.000-05:00

Today on Facebook, I held a poll asking which style I should wear: Twist Out vs. Blow Out. I never wear blow outs, so I thought it'd be fun to wear, but sense (and my facebook friends) said go with the twist out, and I'm glad I did! Really quickly, I just wanted to update you guys on how I wore my hair for a dinner I went to last night.

Just getting home from Oceanic in Wrightsville Beach...excuse the oily-ness. It was bedtime!

Shadows by MAC (Woodwinked and Nehru)
MAC Longwear Concealer used as foundation

I liked the swoop action I had with this twist out

Blinging Fox ring from Bijuju (FAV Carolina Accessory Store)...thanks Michelle!

As far as this style, you guys know I have done a million and one twist outs, but this one turned out pretty nice. I will say that it took me longer than expected to take out all those twists and I know there are still some twists left in the pile of hair on my head, but I did enjoy wearing the mini twists for three weeks. One week short of my goal, but the frizziness started to take over.

I plan on wearing the small twists again, but when I do them I'll be using a better twist product. Also, I noticed that the frizzing caused more tangles and knotting when I untwisted my hair, so if you're planning on rocking this style be mindful of the frizzing. I suggest when it gets too frizzy either retwist or untwist. Doing so will help minimize your chances of a tangled mess at take-down time.

-Nappy Growing

Totally Hawt Tuesdays: Boutique de Bandeaux

2011-07-12T11:00:00.001-05:00

Cream Flowers Cluster Bridal Headband

T is for Totally Hawt-ness!!! So on Totally "Hawt" Tuesdays, we'll be featuring some of the hottest hair accessories I've come across on the web and in the stores. Sometimes, I'll even feature a store or an independent artist's entire line. I'm a fanatic of anything fierce, and how fierce will you be rocking a hot hair accessory in your fro?

Most new Naturals or those of us who go through our "boredom" phase with our kinks, need something new to give us versatility with our hair, so hair accessories help to give our hair that edge. Hair accessories are perfect for taking your TWA to new heights (literally), and for longer lengths, accessories simply say, "look at my diva-style".

Today's accessory line was spotted by an etsy artist. I couldn't just choose one, so I wanted to share my top fav hair accessories from Boutique de Bandeaux. This boutique specializes in "handmade couture-inspired hair accessories for thick, curly, & kinky natural hair." I think she may have create her line especially for me!

Headband Fascinator Bridal Natural Hair Wedding

Bright Blue Biot Feather Samba Headband

Headband Afro Black White Feather Rhinestones

Oh, and pssst, the boutique is on facebook! If you pick an accessory up for yourself, grab one for me too!

-Nappy Growing!

Hair Diary: Small Twists

2011-07-10T12:00:00.015-05:00

A few weeks ago, I was bored and watching youtube videos and I got the urge to play in my hair. Well the playing evolved into the smallest twists I've done myself. Not quite mini, but mini-enough. Since I never...ever...ever really wear my twists out, I decided to have fun with this set. Why not try styles I always want to try, or try styles I've worn with extensions. So, I gave it a real try: Following are the styles I've worn with my twists.

(Note: Products used through out the wear of my twists were: Qhemet Biologics Amla Oil and Heavy Creme, Carol's Daughter Khoret Amen Hair Oil, Eco Styler Gel, Water!, Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, Shea Moisture Hold & Shine Moisture Mist (product review to come)...did I say WATER?!?)

Styles (l to r: 1. loose, 2. loose, 3. bantu knots (didn't wear out), bottom row l to r: 1. loose, 2. bantu knot out, 3. bantu knot out, 4.loose with two flat twists on sides)

Three Year Nappiversary Throwback Nappshot:

Throwback NappShots: Micro Braids August 2009

-Nappy Growing!

Hair Trend: Loose Flat Twist

2011-07-09T12:00:00.002-05:00

Any one who knows me well knows that Tracee Ellis Ross is my ultimate hair idol. So, when this new trend for natural hair started making waves all over youtube, I instantly said...Hey! That's Tracee Ellis Ross' style. This style trend is perfect for summer and fall 2011! Here's T.E.R rocking the Loose Flat Twist style as best as she fiercely could:

God, how fly is she? VERY! I challege you to try this style. Funky to do on an old (or new) blow out. Try it to do a messy pony with a loose flat twist bang (great way to creat a bang for nappies with long tresses). One of my favorite bloggers/vloggers, Who Is Sugar, did the perfect hair tutorial for the style!

LMAO!** singing** "That is so fabul-ous, she is so fancy!"
Be sure to check out Who Is Sugar on Youtube. I've been stalking her blog since before my BC in 2008 and she's still fierce.funky.fly! Check her out!

-Nappy Growing!

In the Spotlight: Quetta S.

2011-07-08T12:00:00.001-05:00

I've answered many questions for my fellow nappies, and I've asked just as many. However, I started thinking that I have never given my own natural hair story, sooooo, in honor of my celebration of being natural for three long, beautiful years, here's my own natural hair story!

July 19th, 2008: Day 1 of my Natural Journey

NSTL.com: Where are you from?
I'm originally from East St. Louis, IL (PROUDLY!), but I moved to St. Louis right after college. Right now, I live in Wilmington, NC.

NSTL.com: How is the natural hair scene where you're from?
In St. Louis, the natural hair scene is thriving. When I first went natural, it was alive an well, but now, as I can imagine most, major metro areas, natural hair can be seen everywhere. You don't need to order all of your coveted products online because they're everywhere you go. You can stop in Whole Foods, any health food store, there's a new store, so I've heard, on the loop that sells natural and organic products, or you can go to Soulard Market on any given weekend for oils and accessories.

March 2009: Month 8

I'm now in Wilmington, NC and the natural hair scene here isn't as popular as home. I miss being able to go anywhere and not feel like I'm the only natural in the room. I've been here for almost a year and I've seen naturals but instead of it being an estimated ratio of 1:3 naturals to non-naturals in St. Louis, Wilmington is more 1:6 naturals to non-naturals. If I could see one thing here, it would be just 1 natural hair salon, because right now, there is absolutely none!

NSTL.com: What inspired you to go natural? Tell me about your natural journey.

I've always encouraged that the first step in going natural is not to transition your hair; the first step in going natural is transitioning your way of viewing your self-image.

August 2009: Month 13

When I hear most women's hair stories, I hear them say they went natural because they had a bad relaxer experience, or their hair started thinning. Whichever the case, most stories has something to do with the health of their hair. Well, my story is the complete opposite. My hair was healthy. What prompted me to cut my hair was completely internal. I'd just gone through a nasty break-up, and I really needed to reinvent myself. I needed to feel like I could start over and not just start over, but start better, and cutting my hair was the exact antedoct I needed at the time.

When I'd decided to go natural, it wasn't really an all of a sudden type of situation. I'd considered loc'ing years prior, but I wasn't ready to cut off my relaxed hair. When I started to go through my my "transition in my relationship", it was the perfect time for me to start my "transition" into going natural. I've always encouraged that the first step in going natural is not to transition your hair; the first step in going natural is transitioning your way of viewing your self-image. If you can't see yourself with gorgeous, kinky, coily, curly, or nappy hair, who will?

Oct 2010: Month 27

March 14, 2008 was my last relaxer. I told myself that I would transition for a year and then I would do the big chop. I'd joined Nappturality, Fotki, watched every single youtube video I could on the topic. I researched other bloggers, hair ingredients, books, styles, textures, products, trends, and every nappy-related issue until I was ready to cut my hair. Ironically, the one year goal shortened quickly into a four month transition and on July 19th, 2008, Nappy and the City became real!

April 2011 (Month 33)

NSTL.com: What are your staple products (if any)?
I'm currently in the process of getting back to the basics. I've been a product junkie since the day I realized I would be a natural. So, I feel the my staple products are in a state of revision. Products I do use regularly are Eco Styler Gel, Miss Jessie's Baby ButterCreme, Carol's Daughter Amen Oil, Giovanni Conditioner. I am revising my go-to shampoo and conditioner, so I can't really recommend a "staple". We'll see what year three will reveal.
NSTL.com: What advice would you give to someone who is transitioning or newly natural?

July 2011: Year III

Follow the blogs, read the books, listen to your natural-haired friends and loved ones, but at the end of the day, do what you feel is best for your hair. No two curlies are alike, so don't think that because certain products and styles work for one natural that it'll work for you. Experiment until you find your staples. And above all love every single strand of hair on your head. If God made us in his image, be it known that every single strand of hair on your head was strategically placed. Which means every bend, curve, curl and kink was intential and it should be embraced and loved.

-Nappy Growing!

Street Style: Nappshot of the Month

2011-07-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hey, did you know that I am a major Essence Magazine JUNKIE!!! Like, really, I am. Well, one of my favorite segments of the mag is the Street Style column. Considering my blog is Nappy AND the City, I figured what better way to show how trendy natural hair is than by posting the best Street Style snapshots....or as I like to call them, nappshots! If you are funky, trendy, or pure-hotness, than email me at urbnannappy@gmail.com to post your favorite nappshots.

If you spot a chic natural on the block or just out and about, take a quick nappshot of her so we can let her know, "Diva, you are rocking that Natural! Rock it out!" (note: you may want to ask their permission...you don't want them to go off(dot)com *in my Tamar voice*). Each month, we'll post the Street Style article, so the next time you're at an event, in the club, on the scene and you or someone around you is rocking the hell out of their natural style, then take a nappshot and email me! Who knows, maybe you'll be the Nappshot of the Month!

-Nappy Growing, oh...BTW: July's NappShot of the Month:

Taken at Live on the Levee 2009: Angie Stone Concert

Washing Thick Natural Hair

2011-07-07T14:27:00.001-05:00

There is one major fact people notice when going natural; it’s that hair-wash day is a little more tedious than when their hair was relaxed. This fact is especially true for those of us with thick tresses. I’ve tried more than a few methods when washing my hair and the longer my hair gets, the more I need to tweak my technique. When I first bc’d, I was able to follow any standard directions from your favorite shampoo bottle: apply a small, dime-sized amount of shampoo to your palms and apply to wet hair to form a lather and rinse. Now, a “small, dime-sized amount” of any product does not work for my hair in the least. To ensure you are on the road to healthy hair, I suggest that your first thought is considering which hair washing method works for your hair. Here are a method’s I’ve tried that have worked best with my densely packed, 4a/b hair.

The Chi-Chi Method
My friend, and go-to person for all things natural, Chi-Chi recommended the perfect technique when trying to wash your hair from root to tip. First, section your hair in four sections and secure each section with butterfly clips, or your preferred tool. Next, part your hair throughout and apply shampoo to your scalp in each part as if you were oiling your scalp. Finally, wash your hair as normal, applying shampoo as needed to the length of your hair. You’ll notice that with this technique, you no longer have to wonder if the shampoo is getting to the roots of your hair or if you have any remaining residue because you would have applied the shampoo directly to the hard-to-reach sections. This is the perfect technique for your thick hair. (Note: its is also recommended to dilute shampoo with water in this method)

Spray Bottle TechniqueOne thing that reigns true when washing hair is that you need two essential things, shampoo and water. Adding the two causes the shampoo to lather and work its magic on your hair. Consider this, what if you pre-mixed the two. In a spray bottle, combine your favorite shampoo with water (I usually mix ¼ shampoo and ¾ water and I add a little peppermint essential oil for tingle). In the shower (with your hair already sectioned in fours), wet your hair then spray your shampoo mix to each section, washing each separately. You’ll notice that with this technique, most of the work is done for you.

(sectioned hair...super thick!)

With the two methods, you’ll notice that it’s almost required for those of us with thick hair to section your hair off in 4-5 sections. This makes it easier to get through your hair. It also helps you to avoid added tangles and it ensures you are able to effectively clean all of your hair. What’s your favorite wash technique? I’d love to hear from you.

~Nappy Growing

Where in the world....

2011-07-03T23:01:00.000-05:00

I know most of you have been wondering, "where in the world is NappyStl?" Well believe me, I've missed you guys too. I know I promised to invest more time into writing for the blog over eight months ago, but I feel like I needed a little break. I know, eight months is much more than a break, but trust me when I say, I'm Back!!!

I've taken some time off to be able to reevaluate my natural hair journey, and what better time to make my way back to the city than in the month of my 3rd Nappiversay!!!! WooHoo!!! If any of you were wondering, yes, my tresses are as kinky as ever and I'm still enjoying my hair journey. Stay tuned for some awesome posts on what I've been up to, how I'm wearing my hair now, and what's next for NappySTL!

-Nappy Growing!

Twist-Out Turned Up

2010-10-10T12:48:00.000-05:00

Hey hunnies! As promised. I kept my twists in for longer than two weeks. I exceeded my own expectations. I'm so proud of myself...lol! Not only did I keep the twists in, but I did a twist out, and I did a Janelle Monae-inspired updo!!! I went to Atlanta last weekend, and I was feeling a little experimental with my hair. So, I'm back to report my styles worn.

My friends and I (centered/top row) in Atlanta on our way out

My twist out started to get big, but I loved it!

The next night, my friend did an inward-frenchbraid in the back (sorry no pictures) and pinned up the top for a Janelle Monae-inspired updo. What do you think? (Notice I got a new tattoo of a lotus flower on my left shoulder/chest).

We had a blast getting all dolled up for the weekend. Plus, I'm glad I got a chance to try the look I've been dying to try for over a year now. Next time, I'm going to try to do the Janelle Monae myself just to see if I can, until then I'll be flying home to let my friend do the look for me...lol!

Nappy Growing,

I found a loctician!

2010-09-25T13:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I found my sisterloctician!!!!! It's official you guys...I will be locking my hair in the near future. While I didn't have my consultation, the loctician was kind enough to let me ask her a million and one questions in order for me to get a feel for her and and to see if I'd vibe with her to loc my hair...like an interview, so to speak.

She showed me pictures of her clients, she talked a little about her journey, she even asked one of her clients to meet with me so that I could ask a client a few questions and for me to see their hair in person. I thought that went above and beyond what was expected of her, but I am very grateful. I knew I was sold on the locks, but after meeting with her, I was sold...hands down. I haven't gotten her permission to post her details as of yet, but if you are in the Wilmington/Jacksonville, NC area and you're looking for a loctician for your sisterlocks, there is a qualified professional in the area.

As you already know, I'll be documenting my sisterlock journey all the way, so more details, pictures, and rants to come.

UPDATE: I'm still wearing my hair in the twists from the prior post, but I touched them up to give them a more polished look. The pictures from last week is of my hair in twists from blown out hair, and when I touched them up, I dampened my hair and twisted with Miss Jessie's Stretch Silkening Creme (which I love for twists because they were firm, but not too heavy and not too hard).

I'm still holding on to these...truth be told, if I hold on one more week, this will be the longest amount of time I've worn twists. Not that I don't like them, but because I LOVE the twist out. I'm embracing them now, but I'll be wearing it loose for awhile so I can sew my royal oaks with loose hair before my committment to sisterlocks.

Nappy Growing,

Nappy in the Spotlight: Marsha Ambrosius

2010-09-22T14:55:00.000-05:00

*singing and smiling widely*

"I hope she cheats on you, with a basketball player. Hope that she Kim Kardashianed her way up.
Don’t know the difference between a touchdown and a lay-up got you on Viagra in order for you to stay up."

The lyrics from Marsha Ambrosius', former songstress from the duo group, Floetry, are both hilarious and agreeable. What woman hasn't wished her exes' boo wouldn't "Kim Kardashian" him...lmao! With her album scheduled to release on October 26th, Ms. Ambrosius is looking better than ever!

Hair Diary: Twists

2010-09-22T12:46:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted updated pictures of my hair in such a long time, but I'm at least happy to report that I'm on the grow! I've been wearing my hair in medim/small twists for about a week. They aren't the best, but its the first time I've worn my twists out in such a long time and they're going to have to work. Ordinarily, I wouldn't have posted pictures of my raggedy twists, but I promised I'd start posting pictures even if I didn't like my hair, so here you go!

I'm still battling with the post-straightening fiasca from over 1 year ago, but I just don't want to cut all of the straight pieces off just to start again. Also, you'll see that I no longer have my colored patch because my hair has grown so much. I plan to recolor my patch after I loc my hair (yes ya'll...I've decided to loc).

My twists are a frizzy mess, but I love the length, density, and texture. I think that the fullness of my twists have helped me to accept that its time to take the loc-route. (Confession: I haven't been taking care of my hair the way that I used to, as I'm sure you can tell by my split ends, but I'm going to fix that. Especially since I've made up my mind to loc.)

I plan to wear my twists for about another week. I'll be in Atlanta in a week, so I'll wear them until its time for my trip. After then, I'll wear it in a loose twist out and in a Janelle Monae-inspired updo (if I can figure out how to do it). I'll keep you posted.

Until next time...Nappy Growing!

Loc'd vs. Loose

2010-09-20T17:44:00.000-05:00

During my time of blogging absense, I've been bit by the Loc-bug. It's been over two years of lovely, natural bliss, and I gave myself five years to be loose before I loc my hair, but it looks like I may not reach my five year mark. I've talked about loc'ing, in the past, but its starting to become a regular topic. I don't know if I'm more ready to loc my hair than I am for just a different style. I love my hair loose. I love its thickness, the bulk, the length, the texture, but I've come to grow tired of how much time it takes to style my hair. I've been looking around for loc inspiration and here's what I've come across:

So there are my inspiration locs. And to you I pose, to loc or not to loc, that is the question?

~Nappy Growing!

Nappy in the Spotlight: Jennifer R.

2010-08-04T15:10:00.000-05:00

NSTL: How is the natural hair scene where you're from?

Jennifer R: The natural scene where I'm from [Arkansas] is growing. When I go home I see more and more people with natural hair. I believe more and more people are realizing how much better their hair can be when they go natural as compared with relaxer.

NSTL: What inspired you to go natural? Tell me about your natural journey.
Jennifer R: I was inspired to go natural because no one could get my hair straight. I would pay all that money for relaxers that did 65% of the job only to need another one a week later. It was a waste of money to me. Beside that I wanted something different; something that I can wear in many different ways and stay put LOL.

NSTL: What are your staple products (if any)?
Jennifer R: For my twists, I love Carol's Daughter Shea Butter. It retains moisture and stays for a while. Kinky Curly Curling Custard is nice for wash-and-go’s. If I need to be cute quick and don't have time to do much, then Kinky Curly is the thing for me. Although natural experts don't encourage grease-like products, I’m in love with Mizani Rose H2O Conditioning Hair Dress including their Fulfyl Conditioner. As far as shampoo goes, I use Olive Oil Creamy Aloe Shampoo or Cream of Nature. I have also used Redken smooth down heat glide protective smoother when I straighten my hair. Its great product. I’m looking forward to trying other products.

NSTL: What’s your favorite natural hair style?
Jennifer R: My favorite natural hair style is double strand twist. I love it!!

NSTL: What advice would you give to someone who is transitioning or newly natural?
Jennifer R: The advice that I would give to someone who is transitioning or newly natural is do what's best for you and what your most comfortable with. You can't look at someone else hair and say I want that because it looks good on them, you have do what looks good on you and most of all that is for you. I didn't make the big chop until after 6 months and it was because I didn't think I would look right with short hair, but it grew and it grew and I love it. You have to be patient and be careful of what you do to your hair when you transistioning because some things like tight braiding can be harmful and leave you at the same point you started at.

~Nappy Growing

Modified Denman Brush

2010-07-24T18:19:00.000-05:00

Most forum and natural hair blog lovers have heard the term "modified denman brush" but some people are unaware of what that is exactly. I you are like me, you thought you purchased "modified denman brushes", but in fact, it is just what it says it is: a Denman Brush that has been modified. If you are still wondering what this entails, here is a step by step tutorial of how to modify your own Denman brush:

Nappy Growing,

Confessions of a Product Junkie

2010-07-24T18:08:00.000-05:00

Hello, my name is Quetta, and I'm a Product Junkie.

Today in the confessions of a product junkie: Walmart/Sally's Haul. I made a run to walmart, just to get some shampoo and conditioner so that I could wash my hair, and it turned into something else. Because I needed to style my hair afterwards, I figured, why not buy products for that too? Then, I made a run to Sally's (because the selection and Wal-Mart wasn't where I needed it to be), and I ended up with money spent on items I need not have bought!

I bought Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In (review coming soon), Goodies satin hair ties, eco styler gel, Herbal Essence's Long Term Relationship line (review coming soon), a new Denman Brush-D3, some kind of Ion shine spray (free with purchase at Sally's...they must know about my junkism), and some clerance nail polish.

All of this after I only went to the store for shampoo and conditioner. Naturals, beware! PJ-ism is a sickness...LOL

Nappy Growing,

Nappy in the Spotlight: Janelle Monae

2010-07-22T10:49:00.000-05:00

Some people talk about ya / Like they know all about ya / When you get down they doubt ya / And when you dip it on the scene / Yeah they talkin' bout it / Cause they can't dip on the scene / Whatcha talk about it / T-t-t-talkin' bout it / When you get elevated, / They love it or they hate it / You dance up on them haters / Keep getting funky on the scene / While they jumpin' round ya / They trying to take all of your dreams / But you can't allow it / (Chorus) Cause baby whether you're high or low / Whether you're high or low / You gotta tip on the tightrope / You gotta tip on the tightrope
-Janelle Monae "Tightrope"

I'm in a great mood today. Primarily because I'm winding down on my time in St. Louis to embark on this journey to NC...but, overall I am feeling great because ITS MY TWO YEAR NAPPIVERSARY!!! In honor of two years of pure, unadulterated, confused love for my nappy hair (LOL), I would like to put the spotlight on one of my favorite Natural-Hair'ed celebs, Janelle Monae.

Photo Credits: papermag.com

Jumping on the scene not long ago featuring on the Idlewild soundtrack with Outkast, this Kansas City, Kansas native is making moves in her own right. She released her first solo effort, Metropolis, in 2007. Thereafter, she was signed to Bad-Boy Records, nominated for a Grammy for "Best Urban/Alternative Performance" for her song "Many Moons", toured with the likes of No Doubt and Erykah Badu, and has released the highly anticipated album The ArchAndroid.

(on the red carpet at the 2010 BET Music Awards)

You may have seen her doing her thing on the 2010 BET awards in the tribute to Prince. Janelle Monae has star-quality that's been lacking from the music industry for a very long time. She is defnitately the one to watch!!!!

~Nappy Growing~

Nappy and the City is Moving

2010-07-21T16:22:00.000-05:00

To all my St. Louis friends and subscribers, I will be relocating to North Carolina at the end of this month. I'm super excited about this move and am eager to see what God has for me there. With that said, I just wanted to put you lovelies on notice because you'll start to see me refer to "local" as being anything in North Carolina/Virginia areas.

NappyStl.com, began in 2008 as a blog focused primarily on my hair journey and the natural hair culture of St. Louis and the Metro East. I hope I didn't veer away from the original focus too much, but the city does play a role on this blog.

Therefore, starting in August 2010, events catered to, stores related to, and all things in regards to being natural will have a locale of Charlotte/Raliegh/Wilmington/Coastal Carolia as the base. I will also post random events in and around the East Coast....Wish me luck guys!

~Nappy Growing~

And the Nominees are...

2010-07-21T15:47:00.001-05:00

While doing some searching and trying to get things aligned with the site, I came across some interesting news: Nappy and the City has been nominated for the Afro Glitz Web Awards in the category of Best Hair Blog!!!! Then I think to myself...here I am neglecting the blog and you guys go and nominate me anyway for an award! *blinking shyly* Thank you guys so much!!! I must have the best subscribers and readers EVER!!!

If you haven't voted, please be sure to surf on over to Afro Glitz and vote for nappystl.com as the Best Hair Blog of 2010. Voting ends August 25th.

To all the other nominees (to whom most of which I am a huge fan), good luck and congratulations on the nomination. Here is a list of the other lovilies in my category:

Best Hair Blog

afroncurls.blogspot.com/
www.agrlcanmac.com/
www.afrobella.com/
backtocurly.com/
bglhonline.com      ***personal fav***

beadsbraidsbeyond.blogspot.com/
www.cherrylola.com/
http://www.coarsehairdiary.com/   ***personal fav***

http://www.collegecurlies.blogspot.com/
hairspiration.blogspot.com/
hopefullyhappyandnappy.blogspot.com/
http://www.knapsgirl.com/
missnaturale.blogspot.com/
http://www.naturalchica.com/
newlynatural.com/blog/
glamazini.typepad.com/   ***personal fav***
www.highlytextured.com/
mahoganyknotsblog.com/
missnaturale.blogspot.com/
moptopmaven.blogspot.com/
mynaturalme.blogspot.com/
mynaturalhair.wordpress.com/
www.naturalbeautifulhair.com/index.html
naturalhairrules.blogspot.com/
www.nappystl.com   ***VOTE****
www.naturalbeautifulhair.com/index.html
naturallyrandom.onsugar.com/
questfortheperfectcurl.wordpress.com/
http://www.textureplayground.com/
thenaturalhaven.blogspot.com/

Again guys, thanks for all your support throughout the years!!

~Nappy Growing~