#also did this to practice box braids and locs | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

virgohairbraidingsalon0214 · 10 months

Text

San Antonio Hair Braiding Timeless Artistry and Cultural Expression

The Significance of Hair Braiding:

Hair braiding has long held significance in various cultures as more than just a means of beautification. For many, it is a form of storytelling, communicating a person's age, marital status, social status, and even their community's traditions. In San Antonio, hair braiding carries a unique sense of pride, serving as a bridge between generations and preserving cultural legacies.

A Fusion of Cultures:

San Antonio's diverse population has fostered a melting pot of braiding techniques influenced by African, Native American, Hispanic, and European traditions. African braiding, in particular, has played a pivotal role in shaping San Antonio's hair braiding scene, as its intricate designs and complex patterns have inspired contemporary styles loved by many.

Techniques and Styles:

The artistry of San Antonio hair braiding goes beyond simple weaving; it involves a combination of methods and styles that reflect both individual creativity and cultural roots. Some popular techniques include.

Cornrows:

Cornrows are small, tight braids that lie close to the scalp. Often arranged in intricate patterns, they are a favorite choice for their durability and versatility.

Box Braids:

Box braids are thicker braids that create a distinctive squared-off look. These braids can be adorned with colorful accessories, offering an opportunity for self-expression.

Senegalese Twists:

This technique involves twisting extensions into the natural hair, resulting in elegant, long-lasting styles that require minimal maintenance.

Faux Locs:

Faux locs imitate the appearance of dreadlocks without the long-term commitment. They provide a stunning and protective style for those seeking a temporary change.

Ghana Braids:

Also known as feed-in braids, Ghana braids create a sleek and tight look, originating from West African traditions.

The Braiders: Artists of Hair:

In San Antonio, hair braiders are true artisans, honing their craft with dedication and passion. Many of them have learned from family members or mentors, inheriting age-old techniques and infusing their own creativity into each braid. They take pride in helping clients embrace their heritage, create unique looks, and maintain healthy hair.

Cultural Celebration through Braiding Salons:

Braiding salons in San Antonio are more than just places to get your hair done; they are cultural hubs that celebrate diversity and inclusivity. These spaces embrace people from all walks of life, offering a sense of belonging and fostering cross-cultural connections. Many braiders are multilingual, further bridging the gap between different communities and making clients feel at ease.

The Importance of Hair Braiding Education:

While hair braiding has deep cultural roots, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges that have arisen around its practice. In the past, braiders often faced unnecessary regulations and licensing requirements that did not align with the nature of their art. However, thanks to advocacy efforts and a growing understanding of the significance of hair braiding, there has been progress in promoting fair regulations and providing educational opportunities for braiders to enhance their skills and professionalism.

For More Info :-

san antonio hair braiding

Virgo Hair Braiding San Antonio

0 notes

silverrstarrr · 3 years

Text

Headcanons of Eren with a Black s/o!🍡

(Happy black history month babes! Remember blm isn't just in this month but all year long :p)

‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿

• You guys most likely met in your high school years.

• I feel as if Eren would stare a lot at you during freshman year. Not in a bad way but in a Curious/adoring way. I mean all his friends are white lmao💀

• He probably approached you during a class period you guys have together.

• I don't think he would be ignorant? But he'll most likely ask to touch your hair.

• Maybe you have braids, locs, or passion twist or your natural curls out/4c Afro—doesn't matter, he'll ask to touch your hair.

• Of course you can decline and tell him no, he won't really fuss over it. He'll even apologize.

• But trust me, he's going to keep staring 😭 he thinks you're really pretty, don't worry ;)

• He won't care about your Skintone/shade, lightskin, brownskin, dark-skinned. He likes them all, I don't see Eren ever have a preference in girls in general.

• Whoever he likes, he likes.

• You guys hit it off in your freshman year.

• He'll ask a lot of questions about you and your culture and your hair

"Hey, why do you wear braids??"

"Is your hair really this long? Wow 😁"

• PLEASE LMAO, I TAKE THESE AS AN INSULT BUT I KNOW HE'S JUST HE CURIOUS 😭

• You'll have to explain to him about your hair.

• You guys most likely snapped and he sent a streak of him getting out the shower and his hair is wet.

• You'll go on about how you can't wash your hair everyday, that you have a certain wash day and his reaction is like "😲"

• Poor baby is like "woooow" and ever since then, he's been hook up to learn about your lifestyle, your family, cookouts, etc. He just wants to know you.

• He calls you pretty a lot.

• Not in a flirtatious way just because he thinks YOURE really pretttyyyy. He's just stating the obvious queen🙄❗

• He offered to go to the Beauty supply store once or twice to buy your weave/pick out the next color. Or he'll just accompany you.

• Also would pick out your next nail color, maybe hairstyle.

• He doesn't care if you wear lakefront, wigs, braids, or natural. He believes they're all beautiful. Plus he understands that our hair need protective hairstyles and can't really, yjehehejehwhww iykyk.

• During BHM, he would do the mossstt.😭

• He'll buy you food and buy you hairproducts.

• He'll constantly post about African American stories on his social media.

• Talked Armin into making a poem about discrimination and racism then made him read out loud to you in the hallway😭

• Would buy a BLM shirts for him Mikasa and Armin.

"Look y/n! We're supporting your people. Remember we're on your side. BLM!!"

• IM CRACKLING TOO MUCH LMAOOOO.

• Don't worry, he's has the right attitude but mann💀

• Depends on the type of person you are: you probably confronted them and told them to relax. Or, you dealt with it and the embarrassment 😭

• You most likely ask him for Reparations 🙄❗🤞

• He deadass would give you them.

• He'll be confused at first and probably wouldn't even understand the word 💀

• But he'll give you money though LMAO.

This was 15 year old Eren, moving on to when he's older.

‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿

• You guys are older. You've been introduced to the rest of his friend squad. Jean, Connie, Marco, sasha etc.

• Jean most definitely thinks you're pretty and fell for you at first sight. Eren didn't like this at all.

• Eren never really understood why he didn't like it when Jean played in your braids. Eren then started to purposely make you lay between his legs so he play with your braids before Jean could.

• They probably reacted the same as Eren about regarding your hair.

• Eren would take it upon himself to explain and even tell them about Lace fronts, sew ins, braids, etc

• He'll probably show off about how much he knows about your hair.

• Eren would ask to help you with your hair.

• He most likely looked up YouTube videos about how to plate hair or how to deal with your hair type in general.

• You could probably teach him. He wouldn't understand the first time but with practice, he's pretty good. Not better than you though 🙄🤞❗

• Carries Hair ties, brushes and combs on him just for you.

• You also carry hair ties for him because of his long hair.

• You're the person who even puts his hair into that sexy ahh man bun🤨❗

• Most likely help you on wash day. Massages oil into your scalp.

• Supplies you with hairproducts.

• Likes it when you play in his hair. During PE, you guys would sit on the bench. Him between your thighs relaxing as you caress his hair.

• You guys look so cute and perfect while doing this. Connie and Sasha would always tease you about being Eren's gf.

• Loves your food! Like literally, he's in love with it.

• During the summertime, you invited him to a cookout. A lot of your family members stared at him but you know, they're accepting and gave him some food, chatted him with etc.

• Ever since then, he would always ask your mom to come over for dinner or save him a Plate lmao😭

• Sometimes if you were to cook, he'll be in the kitchen watching you

"Why are you watching me?"

"I wanna watch you so I can learn to cook your food and surprise you one day with it."

"Suurree but you can't out-cook me."

• He'll then smirk and accept that challenge.

‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿

Sorry I just realized I've only been talking about yall friendly part, lemme get into more intimacy 🥲

• He always have his hands on your hips, waist or ass.

• Maybe you're cuddling in the library or something, his hands are on your ass.

• Black women naturally have curvy bodies In my opinion. And curvy can mean thick, skinny or in the middle. They're still curves.

• He loves kissing your lips. Either that or your neck.

• When you're walking together he always have his hand around your waist.

• Eren seems like the type to hug you from behind and kiss the top of your head.

• I dont think he's big on PDA but that doesn't mean he won't do it.

• You're talking to Jean? Wraps his arms around your waist from behind and places his head on your shoulder- kissing your neck.

• If you so happen to have thay dump trunk in the back, he'll always caress it, give it a pat or smack it. But in the most sly way ever.

You're in the hallway, chatting up with Jean. You guys are discussing the topics of what was recently covered in class. Jean cracks a joke about how the teacher was talking and their looks. You laugh at the small insults he was throwing at your professor. Eren recently just left his class a few doors down from where you and Jean was. He notices your long box braids from down the hall and sees a tall male walking alongside with you. Eren quickly caught up with you guys. As he walked passed you, his hands slides over and grabs a good squeeze from your ass. Naturally you wouldn't mind but for some reason you got embarrassed and flustered. Most likely it was because Jean was there. Before you could respond and complain to him, he leans over and places his lips against yours. Obviously, you kiss him back as his free hand grabs your chin, deepening the kiss. It was passionate. The kiss was probably to make up for his sudden actions but it was also because he missed your presence and touch. The way your lips felt against his own, his hands grasping and holding your hips rolled, everything. Jean rolled his eyes,

"Okay lovebirds, I get it." You break away from Eren with a small smile. You turn towards Jean with an apologetic look, since he did just kiss you in the middle of a conversation.

Jean nodded and said his goodbyes, he'll catch up with you another. Watching as his figured faded within the crowd, you turn towards Eren and smack his arm. He let out an "ow" in response.

"Eren, what was that for? I usually don't mind it but we were chatting."

He lets out a soft groan and buries his head into your neck. He released the grip on your rear and just lays it there as his other hand slips down and does the same. You tap his back and he raises his head from it's previous position. You give him a few quick pecks, wrapping your arms around his neck, he quickly to returns the small kissed back. You both smile at one another, letting out a small giggle.

"Its okay baby, I miss you too." You peck his cheek for the last time.

"We can walk home together after school, meet me at my last period class."

Eren face brightens up when you say those words. Mann, this boy was in love. The bell rang and you notice all the kids scrambling to get to class. He releases his arms from you and grabs your hand as you both scurry along to your next period class.

He drops you off and waves at Armin and Marco that happens to be in your last period.

"Remember your promise y/n!!" He said as he walked off to the direction of his class.

You rolled your eyes jokingly and settled in to class.

‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿‿

Okay bonus:

I feel as if Eren would talk you into making those tik toks that beautiful darkskin/brownskin woman do with makeup and their cute ass hair. Of course you'll end up doing it because he kept hyping yo ass up and wouldn't let it down.

The video actually goes viral and gets a decent 345k likes with 1.1m views. Some of the kids in school came across the video and started chatting up with you. Even some guys you never knew before started to hit you up but Eren gets so Jealous and has you hold his hands always in the halls 😭

Okay thank you loves! Please request/suggest things for him. I don't mind doing one of these for Jean, Connie, etc. Next up are my jjk men 🤨❗

#eren headcanons #eren x reader #eren yeager #eren jeager #eren yeager x reader #eren yeager x you #x reader #attack on titan #aot x black reader #eren x black reader #levi ackerman #eren smut #eren fluff

759 notes · View notes

rencesworld · 3 years

Text

How the Haikyuu boys would react to you getting a different lace frontal wig color that’s out of your comfort zone. Pt.2

Warning- NSFW, cuss words

Bokuto

I’m going to say this once and that’s it, THAT BOY IS YOUR HYPE MAN‼️🤣

You had invited him to your house so you can show him the new hairstyle you gotten the day before. You were excited b/c everytime you’ve gotten a lace front it was always black or burgundy red, so getting gray hair was all new and shocking to you.

The only reason you’ve gotten gray, is b/c bokuto kept asking you to get gray so y’all can twin. At first you were thinking of half black and half gray to really match with him, but that was way more expensive and too much work so, you just stuck with all gray.

When you opened the door the very first thing the boy notice was your hair ( I mean who wouldn’t🤣). This boy screamed with joy, which startled you a little but laughed after.

“BABY YOU LOOK SO FREAKING AMAZING!” He yelled on top of his lungs which you had to rush/pull him inside so he wouldn’t bother your neighbors next door with his yelling.

“YOUR SKIN IS GLOWING 10X MORE!” He kept throwing more and more compliments towards without even letting you thank him, he just couldn’t help it.

You literally had to shut him up with a kiss.

Akaashi

Akaashi was shook asf🧍🏻

The whole entire wig shook him. He’s just used to seeing your in box braids, faux locs , and your natural hair.

So, when he saw you in the hallways walking towards him since he was waiting for you by your locker. He was shocked but in a very good way.

He couldn’t keep his eyes off of you. “Hey kakashi” you said leaning giving him a kiss on the cheek.

He started blushing which made you giggle because you knew you looked good and it was flustering him. “I-I love your hair, blossom. You looking very beautiful. N-not that you don’t always look beautiful- it’s just shocking to see you in this hair.”

When you had gotten the hair you were scared bc you didn’t think it will come out good, But you made it work and you loved it. You just hoped Akaashi loved it too. After seeing his reaction, you know for a fact that he loved it and that boosted your confidence.

Akaashi just wouldn’t keep his eyes off of you the whole day🥺.

Oikawa

You didn’t show up at school bc you had to get your hair done(y’all know yall all skipped school or work to get yall hair done before🤣). This big baby was kind of mad that you left him all alone to fend for himself from getting beat up by Iwaziumi. But he knows getting your hair done was important to you so he wasn’t really bummed out.

You had told him that you were going to try something new this time so he was very excited to see which hairstyle or hair color you will be picking.

During his practice, he saw from the corner of his eyes was a brown skin girl with hot pink hair. At first he didn’t think much but after a couple of minutes it hit him, well iwaziumi had punched him in the arm telling him how rude of him to ignore his girlfriend.

At first he was confused then he looked at where his team mates were looking at and saw y/n sitting on the bench waving at him.

This boy let out the loudest gasp EVER! “Baby is that you!” He asked while speed walking towards her.

“Nah, it’s Ushijima.” Y/n said playfully. Tooru scoffed.

“You like the hair babes?” You asked kind of nervous. “Like? I fucking love it. The hair is slayed sis. It’s the hair color for me. You look so freaking beautiful!” He was just rambling on a little bit b/c he didn’t expect that hairstyle, I mean you did say that were going to try something new but he didn’t expect this kind of new.

“Thank you flattykawa! I knew you were going to love it.” You said happily. Tooru decided to let that name you just called him slide only b/c you looked really good.

“Aye, Shittykawa! We still have practice.” Iwaizumi said.

“Y’all know it’s not hard to call me by my name and I’m admiring my beautiful, gorgeous, sexy, divine, eleg-” “Okay, they get it Tooru-baby.” Y/n cuts him off knowing he wasn’t going to stop🤣.

Tooru could not keep his eyes off of you during practice. His teammates threw a couple of compliments towards you.🥺

Iwaizumi

My baby died and came back to life.😭

It was so unexpected that he literally felt like his soul left body.

You had to skip school to get your hair done unlike Oikawa, he wasn’t mad. He understands how much your hair means to you and how you will always make sure it’s looking right.

Before practice, he got a text from you telling him that you would be in the gym waiting for him. He kind of starts to rush a little but not too much for anybody to notice. He hasn’t seen you all day so he missed you(also excited to see how your new hairstyle looks).

He goes inside the gym to search for you and all he sees is Oikawa talking to a girl with bright blue hair. He couldn’t see the face since their back was facing him. But he’s memorized y/n’s body sex drive crazy

He wasn’t sure if that was you or maybe one of Oikawa’s fan girls. He started walking towards Oikawa but stopped when you turned to face him. You gave him huge grin and flipped your hair a little.

“Iwa-Chan doesn’t y/n look gorgeous. Ugh! Iwa-Chan how were you able to pull a such beautiful girl like y/n-” before he could talk so more nonsense Iwaizumi had already shoved Oikawa away.

Oikawa walked off smirking knowing he pushed Iwaizumi buttons.

After Oikawa left he turned back to you and just stood there 🧍🏻. “I know I’m sexy but sheesh, say something” y/n said smirking.

“Y-y-you look fucking g-good” he says stuttering which surprised you so, you decided to tease him a bit.

“What did you say Iwa-Chan, I couldn’t hear you that well.” Knowing damn well you heard him well. He hates when you call him Iwa-Chan.

“Y/n stop it. I said you look fucking gorgeous.” He said a little irritated. You laughed and leaned in and gave a him kiss on the lips. He isn’t much of a pda but he was only letting it slide bc you looked good asf.

“Can I pull it when I’m fucking you from behind?” He asked during the kiss. Which shocked you. 😅

“Boy this damn wig done cost me way too much money. Hell no.”

Tsukishima

This boy acted like he wasn’t all that interested in your hair but we all know that boy was in love with your hair. It’s the same color as his.

He’s reaction was so him🤣.

He saw you at your locker and your hair from afar. He was in love with the way the color popped your skin tone so well. Your skin was literally glowing.

But knowing him he’s goin act like he doesn’t care.

“Not you copying my hair now.” Tsuki says next to you. Which startled you a little.

“Boy getcho skinny ass out my face. I’m not copying you and never wil.” You said with a playful tone but also serious.

“Mhmm. You want me to walk you to class?” He says not even complimenting your hair, which kind of pissed you off.

“So, you’re not going to compliment my hair or anything?” You said with hands on your hips. Tsuki smirked

“No, let’s go” he said walking off. You followed behind irritated with the fact that he didn’t even compliment you and has the audacity to walk you to class after being rude to you.

Once you guys were reaching to your class, Kei stops which made you turn around to face his tall ass.

“What’s wrong? Why’d you’d stopped?” Y/n asked kind of worried but still mad at him.

“You look very beautiful in blond hair, it makes your skin glow more.” He says then walks away fast before you can even process what just happened. 🚶🏼‍♂️🧍🏾‍♀️

#haikyuu x reader #haikyuu imagines #anime #beauty #art #positivity #haikyuu x black reader #haikyuu!!#hq akaashi #akaashi keiji #oikawa toru x reader #oikawa hcs #hq oikawa #oikawa fic #black y/n #hair #haikyuu smut #haikyuu fluff

370 notes · View notes

autisticcassandracain · 3 years

Text

Braids and Cuts

Fandom/Characters: Batman Comics, Cassandra Cain & Duke Thomas

Wordcount: 1475

Summary: Cass convinces Duke to cut his hair with her, and suggests getting braids. Duke has mixed feelings. The last person who'd done his braids was his mom.

Notes: Written for @duketectivecomics’s Duke Week Day 6: Family Bonding! I tried my best to do my research to be respectful and realistic, but I’m white, so if I got anything wrong regarding natural hair, please let me know! You can read this on AO3 here!

///

The Wayne Manor bathroom closest to their bedrooms - because there was more than one, he’d never get used to this mansion no matter how long he spent in it - was still larger than Duke’s old bedroom, which made it easily large enough to drag a truly gigantic standing mirror in there, so they’d be able to see the back of their heads without the hassle of a handheld mirror. Duke laid their guards out while Cass stood in front of it.

“Who’s first?” Cass asked, angling her head so she could see both her sides.

“You, ‘cause mine’ll probably take longer.” Plus, he hadn’t entirely decided whether he’d go through with it. It’d taken quite a while for his hair to grow back this long, and even cutting half of it off was... daunting, to say the least.

When you can’t jump off rooftops, just cut your own hair, you’ll get about the same adrenaline rush.

“I want just one side shaved,” Cass reminded him while she sat back in the chair.

Duke pulled out a clipper and rolled his eyes. “I know, you’ve only said it about three hundred times, but thanks for the reminder.”

“You’re welcome.”

“So, lowest guard?”

The mirror reflected Cass’s huge grin. “Yup.”

It was easier than Duke had expected it to be, but then again, Cass’s hair was straight as a board. The scissors went in almost as easy as the clippers, and before he knew it, half her head was gone and shaved.

And yeah, it actually did look pretty damn good.

Admittedly, Duke had been skeptical when Cass’d first suggested getting dual haircuts. Not just because he’d never done his own hair, but because Cass’s fashion sense was... questionable. Sure, she had strong opinion on how she should look, which was something. It was just unfortunate that none of her opinions were any good. She’d been known to combine every colour in the visible light spectrum in the same outfit, socks with crocs, and just straight up rip off pieces of her clothes if she didn’t like how it looked. Sometimes it worked. Most of the time, it really didn’t.

But she’d come prepared with a photo album of approximately a thousand different tapered cuts, saved sides, and every braid, loc, and twist combo with those you could imagine, and, well. When Duke’d first started growing out his hair again, he’d hoped it would lead to him finally learning how to be creative with it, like his mom was. In practice, he’d done absolutely nothing, except narrowly keeping it alive. Maybe it was time for a chop.

“You sure you don’t want me to do the other side?” Duke asked, fully expecting a no.

Instead, Cass paused, looking in the mirror, angling her head this way and that. Then, she grabbed the clippers from his hand, and raked it through her hair.

“Cass!”

“I’m doing a buzzcut.”

“I thought you said you wanted one side? You were pretty adamant about it!”

“Changed my mind.”

“Why?”

“Queer reasons.”

Duke rubbed his nose. “Sure, okay, whatever makes you happy. But can I at least finish it?”

Cass paused, cocked her head a little, then handed him the clippers.

“Thanks. And I hope you’re not expecting me to cut everything off.”

“Nope.”

“Good, because I spent way too long growing it for that.” And with that, he started shaving the rest of her head.

Around the time he was busy trying not to cut her ear off (easy, with the guard, but still), Cass said, “You should get yellow yarn braids.”

Duke threw her an incredulous look through the mirror. “You’re either wildly underestimating how long yarn braids take, or my patience.”

“You like them,” Cass insisted.

Which, yes, she wasn’t wrong, but, “How could you possibly know that?”

“You kept coming back to them. In the style collection.”

And, yeah, he had. Sure, getting yellow yarn braids was about as ironic as writing ‘I AM THE SIGNAL’ on the side of his head, but it was just such a cool look. He could save both sides of his head and keep them long, or shave only one and make them shorter, and both would be amazing.

“I’m not getting them,” he said. He shut the clipper off. “There, how do you like that?”

The only thing left on Cass’s head were tiny, prickly hairs, that she immediately went to rub her hand across. She stood up and twirled a bit in the mirrors, wearing a huge grin. “Love it.”

“Glad to hear that.” He gave her the clippers. “Go wash that, I should probably section my hair first.” She gave him a thumbs up and moved towards the sink.

They worked in silence for a little while, Duke carefully separating his hair with a comb and moisturizing it, while Cass washed and dried the clippers. The sound of running water would’ve been soothing if Duke wasn’t running high on nerves.

“Can I do it?” Cass asked.

“Cass, I love you, but I’d rather die than let you anywhere near my hair.” He gestured towards her hand. “Give me the clippers.”

And with a pout, she handed them over and hopped onto the washing machine to watch.

Well. No putting it off anymore.

He put the clippers to his head and went to work.

It wasn’t as difficult as he’d expected it to be. He slowly worked over his head, making sure to keep his eyes on the mirror, even as he could feel Cass staring at him.

“I could do the braids,” she offered, from atop the washing machine.

“What part of ‘I’d rather die than let you near my hair’ did you not get?” Duke answered, barely paying attention.

“You used to have braids.”

That made him pause his clipping. “How do you know?”

“Saw pictures at your house.”

“Ah.” He’d taken them down for a while, after he’d come out, but he’d taken a few kid photos with him in foster care, after his parents... you know. It was comforting to hold onto these memories, and over time, it had stopped being strange or embarrassing to see himself look like a little girl. Even a bit nostalgic, in a weird way.

Which might be why he was considering bringing back the styles he’d worn before he’d come out. It made him remember the way his mom used to braid his hair. She was a fast braider, had to be, with box braids being her preferred style. She wore them for as long as she could get away with it, preferring natural looks for her own hair, but gladly braided his with as many beads and bright colours as he asked. He’d never actually been to a professional; braiding had been his and his mom’s little ritual, over the weekend, with Netflix or songs in the background. They’d only stopped when he’d come out and clipped his hair short.

“My mom used to do my braids,” he simply said, and Cass made an understanding noise.

“Don’t you want to learn?” she asked.

On the one hand, he did. He’d always wanted to learn, to be just as fast as his mom. On the other hand, he really, really didn’t. He just wanted his mom to do them for him, forever. Or at least for another few years, to make up for lost time.

Also, on a lighter note, he didn’t feel like sitting still for like, two days, while failing to do his first pair of braids, and really didn’t feel like doing it all alone.

He’d nearly reached the end of his haircut, detangling the last piece of hair to cut before going in for precision clips. It went swift, after that, and in the end, the haircut looked good. Full on the top, low on the sides and back. Mom had always had a full head of hair, but he felt like braids on this style would give it his own twist.

He’d like to show it to her. Maybe she’d even be present enough to appreciate it.

“I’ll do the yarn braids on one condition,” he announced, turning to Cass.

She peaked up. “What?”

“You stay with me the entire time while I do them, and you’re not allowed to get distracted on your phone.”

She grimaced. “You’re mean.”

“You’re the one that wants me to do the braids.”

“Only because it’d make you happy.”

“And because it’d look cool?”

“I’d prefer pink. And orange.”

“Of course you do, you lesbian. Do we have a deal?”

She wrinkled her nose, but said, “Deal.”

It took way longer than he (or Cass, who complained the whole time) would have liked, but two days later, he had yarn braids that ended mid-back, with electric yellow yarn.

He couldn’t be sure, but he thought his mom liked them.

#dukethomasweek2021 #duke thomas #cassandra cain #my posts #my writing #also cass is intended to be a nonbinary trans lesbian but it didn't come up that much

35 notes · View notes

brownandblackpearls · 3 years

Text

📜 🖋 𝒞ourting with 𝒟r. 𝒟evorak (Julian x BlackReader) Pt.1

PART 1 SUMMARY:

You are a reputable, young beauty of means in Vesuvia, enjoying the winter courting season. An odd letter from an odd doctor finds its way to your door. You decide to respond.

─── Julian x black female reader

─── imagery + fiction

─── explicit smut

─── regency/historical/fantasy, courtship rituals, wealthy! MC, love letters, drama, handsome redheads

☾ next.

.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:・゜゜・．✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: *

“Letters for you, Miss!” The scullery maid calls through the door.

You pause your writing, hesitating over your final line before turning to answer the call.

“Come in!”

The maid strides in with your daily mail on a silver platter. As expected, there is a heap of them from various suiters, all interested in seeking your hand.

Some young, some old, some men, some women, some wealthy, and some positively blue-blooded, they are all voracious. Usually, your interest tends to wane after weeks and weeks of these greetings each season. The feeling especially set in after getting the particular suspicion that the lords, duchesses and dukes reaching out to you were having their own maids and butlers pen these letters, a copy of an inquiry to every potential young beauty in the region.

Consequently, many of the letters did not seem to genuine, remaining vague and distanced. Polite.

Today, however, you find your lessons to be going slow. You decide to take a break and browse through the inquiries.

“Read through them for me, Delilah?” You call out the request as you lower your pen and clean your fingers in a warm, sudsy bowl of water on your desk. Drying your hands, you apply a spot of scented lotion on your fingers before smoothing it in and sliding your delicate gloves back on.

Delilah clears her throat, interested in the letters herself.

You had no doubt the contents of the proposals would make waves throughout the household by sunset, but all of your staff were well-meaning. Just bored during these slow winter months. Honestly, you didn’t blame them for indulging in your courting dramas.

“Well,” Delilah begins, “Here is a letter from a Clarence Dunford Winthrop, hailing from Bremens County! He greets you and wishes you a very warm winter. ‘I am most pleased to write to you, Miss ------. I possess a healthy 34 years in me, and I seek the opportunity to meet and possibly enter the idea of courtship with you. Are the tales true that you are quite fine and b-buxom…? Goodness, how forward!”

You bite back a chuckle, allowing Delilah her scandalized looks and comments. After she’s thoroughly read Winthrop’s letter, she moves on to the next.

“This one,” she exclaims, “is from a young, Fiorentina Agosti, hailing from the Suthlands. She greets you amicably and wishes you a cozy winter. ‘Dear Miss ------, I am most delighted to write to you. I am a young woman of etiquette and good breeding. I am 23 years old, and yet for one so young, I am more certain of my passions and ambition than most grown adults. I seek the window of opportunity to introduce myself and my estate to you, as I am seeking to build my relationships with the nearby families of standing. I favor women only, as I’ll need a good, feminine eye to steer my estate towards a glorious future…what a boastful girl! I hear she is very attractive, though…”

Delilah goes on, examining letter after letter, reading aloud excitedly. Finally, she lands on a slightly ragged one, with a wax seal bearing no crest. Only a simple plant pattern with dried flowers and ferns trapped to the note.

“My,” Delilah wonders, flipping the envelope, “what a...humble introduction. Let’s hope that the contents are more splendid than the package they came in!”

Delilah adjusts the paper before her and begins.

“This one,” she explains, “is from a young…doctor…in the capital, near the palace. Oh, I think I recall this one? He is of great renown, but markedly odd. Hmm…He greets you fondly and asks if…if you have ‘seasonal allergies’...? He is more than happy to forward any herbs or teas that can help soothe inflammation…as a ‘show of good faith and possible friendship’—yes, very odd...He would like to know if you would be interested in accompanying him as an honored guest to his annual medical tools gala. There will be anatomical displays as well as guest surgeon speakers. Afterwards, he would like to take you to attend the opening night of a Vesuvian theatre drama, and then dinner. I—that sounds more exhausting than eventful. Goodness….“

Despite Delilah’s somewhat opinionated concerns, your interest perks at the oddness of the inquiry and the oddness of the planned date. You’re not so sure a medical gala will be of interest to you, as you’ve never attended one before, but you would like to try.

“Delilah, please. No more commentary. What does the rest say...?”

Delilah harrumphs, moving on. “Well, he seems certain that you will find the engagement eventful and enlightening on his personage and he hopes to show you how good of a ‘provider he can be for a woman of your means’. He has ‘no grand heritage or acreages’, but he does have one of the ‘best practices in Vesuvia’ sporting several underling surgeons and plenty of business. New blood, instead of blue blood from the looks of it, if you ask me.”

You pause, thinking it over.

The letter all sounded personally tailored and individualized for your reception, and clearly not something that was drafted up in the monotonous manner of house staff doing as ordered.

The doctor seems very keen in meeting you...

...You can’t help but feel the same.

“What is his name?”

Delilah levels you an uncertain look, noticing your choice, before sharing.

“The suitor signed off as a Dr. Julian Devorak.”

“Devorak,” you try out, rolling the name around in your mouth.

It feels good.

“Thank you Delilah. You may place the letters in my box, save for the doctor’s. Please bring his to me, as well as my pen and good ink. I’ll also need the courting stationery.”

Delilah sours slightly before perking back up and doing as ordered quickly. She clearly does not approve of the choice but remembers her place, and knows that you are not one to be bossed.

You wait until she delivers the stationery and retreats from your room before turning to your pen and paper, glancing at the letter from the doctor.

You perfume the parchment slightly, and use a fine, shimmering ink to dot the thick, French paper. You being to write, peering at your refined, swirling letters.

“Dear Sir…I take the first opportunity to acknowledge the flattering letter with which you have favored me…your discernment is of my deep interest, as well as your detailed plans for our hopeful outing. I consent to the date and time, and I look forward to your academic gala, as well as the theater and subsequent dinner. I implore that you arrive to chaperone me long before the sun is high in the sky, as we may need much time together that I am wont to spend with you. I will admit, I find you very curious and am interested to learn more of you. Warm Regards, ------.”

You finalize the paper with a neat calligraphy of your signature, before cleanly folding and pressing the letter. You choose a lovely envelope and seal it with wax before stamping and sending it off with Delilah to be mailed.

“Hmm. Odd man,” you murmur to yourself, before moving on to send responses to the other requests of interest.

The days pass by, eventful.

You go on several dates, some of note and some not so much.

A few remain in your mind of potential. There was a beautiful countess seeking companionship after a split from her count…Nadia. Buxom and svelte, she was also the epitome of regality, and a brown-skinned beauty like yourself. You couldn’t help but feel drawn to her.

There was also Asra, a mischievous but enchanting merchant king. You suspected a penchant for the occult on his end, but his beautiful face was too good of a distraction to focus on what may hide behind it.

Then there was Muriel, a mysterious man with one of the largest claims of land in Vesuvia. He was fidgety and reserved, but you sensed a deep soul in him.

Portia, the jeweler of the aristocracy, and her passionate stares paired with her down-to-earth jokes were enough to make you lower your guards and raise your spirits.

Lastly, Lucio. Oddly enough, he turned out to be the count that split with Nadia. You found his countenance alarming at first, only to later find a subtle charm in his passion for life, luxury and you.

All of them were far more interesting than the duds you’d went on dates with the past few weeks.

Valdemar, the ambassador, had spilled soup all over your dress during a brunch while he spoke wildly about some conquest of his past. Then there’d been Volta, an odd little thing that insisted on trying all these unappealing, exotic dishes. There’d been Vlastomil, a weevil of a person who seemed more eager to gossip cruelly than to learn of you. And lastly...most memorably...there was Valdemar…you weren’t too sure what Valdemar did, but you were certain whatever it was, you wanted absolutely no part in it.

Weary from all the courting, you put your best face forward and hoped this day ended up being a delight instead of another disaster.

Foregoing flat-ironing, blowouts, presses, braids and twists this time, you decide to arrange for your servants to outfit you in lovely, long locs for the evening. You line them with fine silver trinkets, baubles, and rings before arranging your makeup to perfection and dressing in your finest, warm regards from the tailor.

Today was the day with the doctor, and you wanted to see exactly what kind of man he was.

You donned a beautiful gown beneath your long, furred coat and lined your neck with a shining collar of diamonds. The winter snow would reflect stunningly off of them, as well as you.

Perfumed, plucked, and preened, you stand, assessing yourself in the mirror.

Vesuvia’s treasure.

You laugh, satisfied with the show stopping look, before leaving your room. You almost bump into a servant, rushing in to announce to you that the doctor has arrived with a carriage for you both.

“Let him in,” you say kindly, glancing out the window. Sure enough, a large, black carriage awaits. You lift your chest, square your shoulders, and raise your chin, allowing your lashes to lower and your aura to project.

You descend the stairs of your home into the grand hall, your eyes pinning the man that entered and awaited below, greeted politely by your staff.

‘Oh,’ you realize.

He’s gorgeous.

Your eyes widen slightly at the sight of him. Tall, tousled, and terribly attractive, Julian Devorak watched you, open-mouthed, as if you are some sort of ethereal being that decided to grace his mortal existence. Descending the marble stairs, you feel him watch every step you take until you finally reach the landing.

You decide to close the distance and break the ice when he makes no move, still in awe of you. No need for those stars in his eyes, you think. You want him dazzled, not anxious or elevating you to something or someone that is inaccessible.

He is here in your home, after all. If you were inaccessible to him, he wouldn’t be.

“Hello Dr. Devorak,” you grace easily, smiling. “I’m ------. It is a pleasure to finally meet you.”

“J-Julian, please, no need for extraneous titles,” he insists in a light stammer. “The pleasure is all mine, I can assure you.”

‘Aaw,’ you think to yourself, looking fondly at him. You’ve heard the line so many times before, but somehow, the words sound so genuine coming off of his tongue. You also like the sound of his voice very much. He sounds like how he looks, you realize.

Julian mistakes your silence for something bad, and rushes to fill it.

“I-I can’t tell you how…how long I’ve anticipated today.”

“Oh?” You ask, tilting your head in wonder.

Were you the only one he was querying? That wasn’t possible. There had to be others. You respond pleasantly.

“I’m honored...’Julian’. But I’m sure an interesting man such as yourself is entertaining many acquaintances and possess many options.”

Julian blushes, surprising you. He shakes his head, fingers fidgeting at his sides.

“Not exactly,” he offers, leaving it there.

Your brow lifts in wonder.

“Really...? But I loved your letter. I’ve reread it several times and am not afraid to say so. I find you quite striking.”

If possible, Julian blushes even harder at that, daring to hold your gaze. You see an odd sort of mask arise on him then, a false yet endearing bravado. You don’t call it out and simply watch as he does his best to disguise his rampant shyness.

“Ah...thank you madam! But not nearly so striking as one such as yourself! Why, I remember the feeling of when I first laid eyes on you. It was as if lightning had struck me.”

Your eyes widen in pleasure, curious.

“Such flattery! Where did this occur?”

Julian smiles triumphantly, happy to visibly pique your interest.

“The theater! I noticed you in your private box and it was then I decided that I must inquire to learn more about you.”

Your smile broadens, and you can’t help but step closer. Julian feels very comfortable and warm, even with the pomp.

“So that’s how you knew I’d enjoy the theater!” You exclaim. You had wondered about it since his letter first arrived. He could’ve invited you to any event, any activity, and yet he knew the theater was the right choice...

Julian tenses as you near, unsure of where to look. You can’t tell if he wants you closer or farther away. You decide to hold firm and give him time to sort it out for himself.

“I-uh…yes.” He swallows thickly. “Allow me to enlighten you of the day’s activities in the carriage…?”

You nod, realizing that your questioning is holding the both of you up from your date. You step back, cowed.

“Of course! My apologies.”

Julian swiftly holds out a broad, gloved hand for you to take. The gentleman’s escorting hold.

“No need to apologize,” Julian insists, guiding your offered palm gently, “I...I actually should be the one to apologize.” He bites his lip, thinking of some unknown err.

You glance at him as the two of you step out the front door together, waved off by your staff.

“Whatever for…?”

Julian looks sheepish, rounding you both to the carriage door and opening it for you.

“I....well!” He pauses, the words sticking in his mouth. “I was...told by a confidant very recently that the medical gala may have some things that are not...er, conducive for a romantic atmosphere. So I must ask...you’re not squeamish of leeches, are you?”

.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:.・゜゜・✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:・゜゜・．✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: *

AN: Do not copy, repost, or edit. If you see someone do so, please let me know.

☾ next.

☾ check my blog for more imagines.

100 notes · View notes

creeroleplays · 4 years

Photo

- creeroleplays does a guide -

Black Hair: How to describe texture and style in roleplay

Introduction: I want to start by saying that black hair is one of the most- if not the most- diverse hair groups in the world. What is in this guide may not apply to everyone, but it may give you some insight on the culture surrounding our hair and how it applies to your character. I didn’t fully edit this, so you might see typos, inaccuracies, etc. I’ll update it the more I pick up on things. Enjoy!

history.

Black hairstyles have been passed from generation to generation for thousands of years. From Ancient Africa to Black America, styles such as locs, bantu knots, braids, afros and twists have adorned our heads as symbols of identity, culture, politics and status. They have inspired fashion, music, movements and art, and defined cultures as we know them today.

During colonialism, black people were often forced to conform to European ideals of beauty- turning them to harmful chemicals and equipment to achieve what some would call “good hair”. During the civil rights movement (and even some time before with the Rastafarian movement), people were encouraged to turn away from damaging practices to embrace their natural textures, reestablishing their identities by shunning conformity and returning to their roots. In the years following, black hairstyles became symbols of pride and rebellion- as it was considered daring for black femmes in particular to wear big afros and long braids.

Today, black hair care is a billion dollar industry- from oils to equipment, we invest quite a bit of money and time into our crowns. The reasons why may vary- some see their hair as a symbol of pride and identity, others simply dig the aesthetic. Whatever the reasons, black hair is always evolving while simultaneously serving as a reminder of where we come from.

types of styles.

There are hundreds of styles that I could detail, but I’m going to stick to a few of the most popular ones. Many black hairstyles are often protective styles -styles used to protect our hair from natural detriments such as the sun, wind, rain, our own hands, etc-. Some even wear these styles beneath wigs for further protection and style options. Below, I will list a few that I know of personally with accompanying pictures.

cornrows

Cornrows were named because -well- they look like rows of corn. They are a protective style worn by braiding the hair in an underhand, upward motion. In Ancient Africa, they were considered a symbol of agriculture and order, while today they are used for a myriad of purposes whether protective or fashionable. The process of braiding can take anywhere from minutes to hours. When I was a little girl, it took approximately four hours to braid my full head of hair- for those with longer and more intricate styles, it can take even longer. These braids can be done in different angles and shapes. I personally liked to have my braids angled into stars.

locs

Dreadlocks, locs, goddess locs, faux locs, twists- there are so many different variations of this style it is mind boggling. The most basic one involves sectioning off the hair, twisting it and leaving it uncombed until it mats and turns itself into a loc.

Beginning dreadlocks can be an arduous, costly and time consuming task, but most who get them claim that it’s the best decision they ever made. Some incorporate weave into their locs for longer styles while others go for a shorter approach (thank you Michael B. Jordan in Black Panther). My big mama (grandmother) had locs all my life and they grew until they reached her waist- they required a lot more care and attention than my own hair did, with weekly retwisting, washing, oiling, etc.

microbraids/box braids

The reason I put microbraids and box braids into the same category is that they’re basically the same thing. Small sections of your hair are braided until they cover the entire head. Microbraids are very, very skinny and mimic strands of hair, while box braids are thicker and more defined- earning it’s name from the box-like way the hair is parted into sections. If someone plans to get box braids, they can plan to spend anywhere from 3-10 hours getting their hair braided. When I got mine a few years ago, I showed up to the shop (hair salon) at 7am and didn’t leave until 6pm. I also chose to incorporate weave into my hair for a bulkier braid and more of a protective style.

afros

Afros are, for the most part, exactly how our hair grows out of our heads. Some of us (me) don’t have the ability to grow afros that go upward or have volume like traditional afros do. This particular style involves maintaining healthy hair, and often picking it out with a pick comb. Those with afros usually have kinky, high volume hair textures that enable them to unravel their natural curl pattern to form their fros. I am not one of those people. While I have thick hair, my curl pattern is not as kinky as others, thus is tends to lay flat.

how to describe black hair

Black hair is incredibly diverse. It can be kinky or coily, loose or big, long or short. There is no set standard or expectation for our hair, it simply is, and every kind is beautiful.

When describing texture it always helps to keep in mind that there have been very harmful stereotypes to avoid. Words like ‘nappy’’ are generally best kept far away in describing your black character’s hair. Instead, aim for descriptors that give light to the features. Fluffy, crimped, coily, poufy, spirally, etc. It can also helps to simply describe the style they are wearing, as cornrows and afros create their own visual presence in your head.

ex.

“My hair, which someone had tied back into a puff in an effort to control it, broke the tie and clouded loose behind me.“ (The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemison

“I got the crown of his head at first, and marvelled as always at the feel of hair like my own — soft-curled, dense but yielding, thick enough to lose my fingers in. The first time I’d touched him I’d thought he was one of my people, because only Maroneh had such hair. (The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemison

That’s not to say that black people don’t have days when their hair is less than immaculate. For instance, my hair is currently piled on top of my head with curls popping out of my bun every which way. A good rule of thumb I have found when it comes to describing black hair is to avoid harmful stereotypes and to focus on shape, style and color.

ex.

“Dark spirals coiled around my face, the frayed ends frizzing from my night of tossing and turning. It would take some kind of miracle to free the knots that surely hid in the thick mass of curls and scalp.”

Black men and women often cut their hair short- sometimes in styles known as fades, where parts of the hairline fade to the skin to create a gradient effect. The hairline is always incredibly important, as a straight and well-angled hairline is often seen a sign of self care. Describing the hairline as sharp is always a good place to start off, though you could also go on to say that it is clean, precise, or smooth.

ex.

“He was good looking- dark skin, full lips and a clean, fresh cut.”

tips.

Avoid harmful stereotypes. Black people do wash their hair- whether it’s in locks or not-. Our hair is not nappy and “othering” our textures or styles is never okay.

It’s okay for your character to wear wigs, weave, etc. Despite what some people might say, there’s nothing wrong with weave. Taking care of our hair every single day can be exhausting and sometimes you just wanna throw that shit in a wig and call it a day.

When in doubt, do some research. It’s easier to do research than it is to offend someone. If you don’t have a way of describing a particular style or texture, just refer to the resources you have on hand. Or ask a black person that you’re friends with. More than likely, we’re not going to be upset at you wanting to accurately and respectfully portray us.

While there are many differences between our textures and different textures from various ethnic groups, we also have a lot of similarities. Don’t think you have to go above and beyond to get an accurate description of our hair, sometimes less is more.

Shrinkage is a thing. Because of how tightly curled our hair is, sometimes our hair can see shorter than it actually is when you stretch the curl out.

Have fun. Seriously, black hair is so incredibly expansive and beautiful, portraying it in anyway can be very exciting. Enjoy the experience.

This wasn’t exactly what I had in mind and I may make this into a series, but if you have any questions, feel free to message me! I’m always happy to clarify whatever I can!

#rpc #rph #guides #resource guides #resources #black hair

146 notes · View notes

yourmichaelhernandezposts-blog · 5 years

Text

Celebrating Your Normal Hair

I remember when I first went natural. I confided in my own buddy and she asked me why I needed to do anything that way and what might I really do with my hair? During the time I was not certain what I would do with it, but the look on her face told me she didn't accept and it totally discouraged me from actually wanting to go natural. It took me couple of years after this discussion to obtain up the nerves to start moving; this time I did not ask anyone's view or did I show my want to anyone.

Following being normal for some months, I continually seen such things as, "See, you can wear your hair that way, but I could never break free with it", or "I would go normal, but I do not desire to use an afro or locs ".There are lots of normal types that suit different tissage bresilien personalities and lifestyles. I easily discovered that normal hair is significantly more varied than calm hair; not only will normal hair be straightened to mock calm hair, nonetheless it can be coiled, twisted, curled, braided, knotted and much more.

I've had many of my clients protest about wearing their normal hair to a wedding, a graduation, or various other particular celebrations, so they choose to align it when these occasions arise. They sometimes push it or manage to get thier "last" relaxer simply because they can't choose "nappy" hair. The first thing I say to these folks is they've to improve their psychology when contemplating what's appropriate and wonderful, especially if their hair is the contrary of this. Also, there is not just one design that's appropriate when celebrating a special occasion; be open-minded and do not be afraid to be creative. Here are some tips on how to use your normal hair to a special occasion.

If your hair is short, coils can be extremely sassy and attractive and an angle out also can match the occasion. You do not generally need certainly to use your hair up or pulled back, but should you choose determine these types, be sure your hair is good enough so you do not have to employ a lot of bobby hooks; this could damage the entire style. Sense liberated to adorn your hair with hair accessories. I've actually hooked a cowrie shell earring in to my twists to incorporate only a little flair. Braids can be extremely elegant and are very versatile. You can wear the hair German braided into a bun, or you are able to control curl box braids. Look at the occasion and wherever it will soon be held. You might want to use your hair pinned up if the occasion are at a windy outside wedding or in a funky, chunky Mohawk if the occasion is enjoyment birthday party. Do not try to produce your normal hair do what calm hair does; the structure is different and it might cause more disappointment than anything. You can find countless normal types that are elegant, enjoyment, sassy and just simple wonderful that will meet up with the satisfaction of any celebration. I would generally recommend trying the design out ahead of when the occasion so you aren't stuck with it if you never like it. I would also recommend finding images of normal hair types and getting them to your stylist or practice them on your self beforehand so that you are comfortable with it when enough time comes (although the very next time you do it, it might maybe not come out the same; that's the elegance of normal hair). As opposed to trying to produce your normal hair adapt, accept it and celebrate it!

0 notes

naturalhairgoddessus-blog · 7 years

Text

My Hair Story

Hey Guys!

Remi HERE! Welcome to the Page!!! I refuse to call it my page because I honestly made this page for other women, like myself who are natural and are looking for ways to communicate or interact. Basically this is you guys blog too. YAAAAAAY

Anyway, today I wanted to share the start of my journey with being Natural. My story isn’t interesting but I wanted to talk about how it started and how being natural changed my life. Also, I am going to post other stories by women of how they started and why, so stay tune.

Okay, so I went back to being natural almost 7 yrs. ago (I say that because I believe when we’re born or in general, we are natural. But after that, we make the decision of putting relaxers in our hair. Basically retracting from our natural roots from Africa.) This is a picture of my hair before I went back to being natural:

I was receiving relaxers at that time since I was 4yrs. of age. I use to love the loooooooong process of doing relaxers, my mother was always the one doing them because she did not trust beauticians for the life of her (which I cannot blame her because I had a bad experience with them) that basically was our bounding time with each other. From mixing the chemicals to burning my edges off, FUN TIMES. Anyway, towards me getting older and basically a teenage, I was looking for change. I loved my hair, but TBH I could not stand relaxers anymore. The look was basically the same and the routine became boring and I was looking for something different and versatile.

Crazy thing is the same week I was experiencing this feeling, I had a conversation with my mom about hair. Apparently, My sister and her were also feeling the same way I was about relaxers. My mom was telling me how she decided that maybe it was time for a change for everyone (referring to her and my sister). My mom talked to her best friend (Who is natural and actually at one point made her own natural products from scratch.) about going back natural, at first I did not know much about it at the time except for one of my really good friend’s were going through the process also. At first I was scared of doing it and really did not know how to feel about it but I also felt like: change is always good and my mom did say if I wasn’t feeling it, I could go back. So I said F-U-C-K IT, why not (Didn’t say it out loud, my mom would slap the crap out of me, IDK why I spelled it anyway. SORRY MOM)

Anyway, so I decided to take a step into one of the best decisions of my life and practice the natural lifestyle. At first, I didn’t know what to do, the whole transitioning process of it was literally the hardest part. From deciding what kind of protective styles that work for me (Braids, Locs, Yarn Locks, Marley Twist, Two Strand Twist, etc. etc. etc.) to what products to use (Shea Moisture, Olive Oil, Cantu, etc.) I didn’t know what the hell to do tbh! After I dyed my hair (the first time) when it was time to style it, I was so confused on what to do. Some of my friends were supportive of my decision, others were confused about why I was even doing it and talked shit about it (My curl pattern was trash when I first started) so my hair was looking crazy and I started questioning why the hell I even do this:

I honestly wanted to ask my mom: WTF is this? This wasn’t what I signed up for or agreed to. After 4 months being in this stage, I was very insecure about my hair. For years, I was known for having long hair and now I was in the confused state and asking my go to question when things are too hard, difficult, or too much: what is life?

But one day, I was talking to my friends and come to find out most of them were starting down the same path of confusion and anger I was: TRANSITIONING! Seeing my friends feel the same way I was feeling kind of made me feel better.

We’re basically in this together. (*Cues High School Musical music*) what also brighten my mood was how many styles my hair is basically open to now, more than it was relaxed. My first protective/hairstyle was Bantu Knots. (Shown here in the pic below):

(Why was I smiling so hard? Because that is the first and last time my Bantu Knots came out perfect, since than NOPE!)

Next style was: Box Braids - they only lasted for about 1 month (I usually keep my protective styles for at least 2-3 months depending on the style, while co-washing, keeping it moisturized and refreshing them when needed but they were too heavy for me):

(Last year in High School, I was too happy to graduate and go to college! HAHAHA lol where’s the re-do button?)

Another style that I did was a simple up-do that worked really well with my outfit for my last homecoming:

After that the styles kept coming. After that was: Marley Twist, Sew ins, Crochet Braids, Buns, Locs (Faux and Yarn), YOU BASICALLY NAME IT. After awhile, I started to see growth in my hair and personality. I became more confident in my own skin and loved my hair the way it was. Sure from time to time, I feel like doing the big chop (BUT sadly I do not have the head shape for it and plus I probably be pissed if I did cut it) and other days I walk around with my afro like I’m Cold:

I receive more compliments now than I did when I had my hair relaxed. Compliments went from the usual and simple: “Your Hair is Long” to “Your Curl Pattern is Goals, That Style Looks Good on You, etc.” I’m feeling myself more now than I did back than. I honestly enjoy this lifestyle, I feel like it chose me and I chose it.

That’s basically my hair story you guys. Nothing special, just got tired and bored one day and decided a change needed to happen. I hope you guys enjoyed this story. Thanks for reading.

This is a recent pic of me after a twist out:

-REMZ

0 notes