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101+ Ways To Style Your Dreadlocks

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We all know I’m addicted to lists by now.

Blogging is about sharing. So the first thing that pops into my head the minute I stumble upon something is, I HAVE to share this with my readers!

Being on an attempt at a natural journey, it’s no wonder that I have considered dreadlocks as a hairstyle. But then again, I’ve heard, more than a hundred times really, how boring they get after a while. Assuming, you don’t have as much freedom to play with weaves, extensions, relaxed, cropped and all other different hairstyles, some people are bound to feel stuck to wearing the same style every damn time. First of all, almost everyone hates being restricted to the same style over long periods. Second of all, that is entirely false and mythical. I have seen locked sisters rock the most unexpected and innovative styles that make me want to wear my nappy hair in locks. If you are one of those who is running out of ideas on how to wear your dreadlocks or if you want to start keeping them, here’s a post to inspire you. Here’s a tonne of stunning ladies who I just had to make another list about. Let’s get into these warlocked beauties:

Pop Ya Colour

We all know the quickest and easiest way to add some spice to an old style is to dye it! See what these ladies did:

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dread locks dye

Claire Sulmers of Fashion Bomb Daily has the cutest dreads ever! I love how she made them stand out with the pop of platinum blonde.

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Buns are great way to keep locs coiffed and neat especially if you’re dressing up for a special event:) Playing with voluminous buns against neat edges is always fun.

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http://fashionbombdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/claire-sulmers-ordering-at-a-restaurant-peter-pilotto-shirt.jpeg

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locs bun

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locs bun

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dreadlocks bun

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dreadlocks bun

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locs

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http://25.media.tumblr.com/c789dc007b75b20f23319d06d3c0e898/tumblr_mtqnrlnbu71qfo4w8o1_500.jpg

http://25.media.tumblr.com/d7698104142dbceab2eca9ce3c3ee3c2/tumblr_mtqmf8LGxS1qfo4w8o1_400.gif

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http://31.media.tumblr.com/4afb67081a4e2671a891fd38ecfdf3f6/tumblr_mo6v9hzYYD1qfy7xzo1_1280.jpg

Or you can break free from regular buns and try out of the box bun and updo styles like these:

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bun locs

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Have you ever tried curling your locs? You’d be amazed at the results…

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http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/95/68/06/95680698f8a946c38c9b541b53f63312.jpg

42. Chescaleigh is one my favourite natural hair bloggers. She has a million and one ways to style her locs. Gosh!

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http://24.media.tumblr.com/70a8145a0ebd02dc7c5d5b3bab4d28d4/tumblr_mu0pdzIYpQ1r0lt5ho1_1280.jpg

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http://31.media.tumblr.com/882cca61cc263e10b8bef3df94417068/tumblr_mu8xpcb75n1sos4luo1_500.jpg

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http://25.media.tumblr.com/7fef782ad4766180058030e0c8101df0/tumblr_mt1ccwv82R1sfz8g2o1_500.jpg

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http://25.media.tumblr.com/502221e657a8ab6d09b09fdd43fe3ea4/tumblr_mqel3vetAm1ryzphho1_500.jpg

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http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a7/7b/46/a77b46ff725d432bc28ae72f30325c69.jpg

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http://24.media.tumblr.com/bccd944e23f949a0e8f37c08b8b5d45a/tumblr_mklne9BadE1s1fco7o1_500.jpg

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http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_memvv0FSP01rblhbqo1_500.jpg

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http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/6a266-long-black-hairstyle-with-curly-dreadlocks.jpg?w=540&h=720

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http://thirstyroots.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/locs-and-twist-curl_full_full1.jpg

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Fro-Hawk

Be brave and try shaving off some sides of your locs. This might be tricky if you are not ready to chop off the rest of your locs when you get tired of rocking the shaved sides. The new short sides might be hard to manage once they start growing out. But if you’re going to stick with the low sides for quite a while, then what’s to stop you?!

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http://0.static.wix.com/media/86ab9d_1e0b0cc52b26f532347a3743f277b14e.jpg_1024

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shaved sides locs

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http://25.media.tumblr.com/c2eb7c969194233806e2296b309c62aa/tumblr_msxvhmHOBn1si8wzxo1_500.jpg

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60.Model Kateria Typhani Manning is a killah!

http://25.media.tumblr.com/07026cd72347a857e1aa8f8d6b696a85/tumblr_mtm0mqmSoo1qewhh5o3_1280.jpg

http://24.media.tumblr.com/b723e4b5278bb92050191f9bf572f99f/tumblr_muqbn9t7jc1sa0cg0o1_500.jpg

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http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2wv69P3y91qjkq4lo1_500.jpg

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http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/be258-side20shaved20locs.jpeg?w=482&h=720

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Accessorize your locs with headwraps, breads and other fabulous ornaments.

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http://31.media.tumblr.com/77d7d7bacf95aca985609a74c4d1ee4d/tumblr_mibm1zmgIr1rab8pro1_500.jpg

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http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/4f/d1/d5/4fd1d56a7b917af114ae7873c098ca7a.jpg

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71. Take inspiration from these gorgeous natural brides.

http://slodive.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/african-american-hairstyles/dreadlocks-updo-for-wedding.jpg

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http://25.media.tumblr.com/d7989877d8e6d437a5cc37bfa116a53e/tumblr_mm1mzae1Bn1sn221fo1_500.jpg

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At the end of the day, no matter your hair or style; nothing beats a healthy dose of confidence and a winning smile.

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http://static.gigwise.com/artists/june%20valerie.jpg june

79. Sepsenahki Aahkhu a.k.a Chef Ahki is famous for having the sexiest blonde locs under the sun.

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/db/4e/a7/db4ea7dda66cf22f7c444f980d2eeff9.jpg

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/38/1a/5f/381a5f9be0387a15ea557d59187fd1ae.jpg

http://staceyroyal.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/8162843044111910_khz4qyiy_f.jpg?w=389&h=600

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mduxerFmCW1qecjzoo1_1280.jpg

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nerissa irving locs

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http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2032/5714899773_34f9d3c216.jpg

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http://www.thegirlsare.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Valerie-June.jpg

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http://25.media.tumblr.com/0dc086fff6ac8daa9f9a8ea39e0fd2c2/tumblr_mumo55HqTr1qz887do1_500.jpg

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http://asikereafana.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/296880_156051667808548_138553149558400_329010_6015772_n.jpg?w=358&h=700

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http://blackwomennaturalhairstyles.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/medialifted.jpg

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http://lovecraftbeauty.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/rby-shanola-hampton-naacp-de.jpg?w=375&h=500

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Hope you found these styles refreshing and inspiring.

Which ones will you be trying out?

Have a blast this weekend!

Love & Light 

xx

Lydie


Tagged: dreadlocks hairstyles, dreadlocks shaved sides, dreads styles, locs, natural hairstyles

Gift Ideas For That Special Someone This Christmas

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There are so many reasons why I love Christmas. One of them is that Christmas is a time to give. That warm feeling you get when you get a chance to show your loved ones how special they are to you. As much as we all love to give, picking out the perfect gifts for our special ones can be somewhat tricky.

The first rule to gifting is, give a gift that never goes out of style. And when I think of that, I think of diamonds.Yes, this good old classic always does the trick.

I was browsing through Anjolee’s gemstone and diamond jewellery collection recently when I stumbled upon a handful of precious goodies and thought, I’d definitely fancy those this Christmas! Anjolee is a successful high-end jewellery manufacturer of bridal jewellery, rings, diamond tennis bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and pendants. Their pieces are quality-guaranteed and 100% authentic. The site is user-friendly and lets you design your own pieces!

Here are a few gift  ideas on what to wrap up for that special someone this Christmas.

Eternity Rings

They are timeless. One does not go wrong with such an elegant and classic piece.

http://www.anjolee.com/wedding-rings-and-anniversary-rings/diamond-wedding-rings/Devoted-Channel-Set-Eternity-Band.aspx

Stud Earrings

Who doesn’t love them? Have one specially cut to your taste by customizing your item to the tiniest detail.

http://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LW_st976_w_bn.jpg

Tennis Bracelets

Diamond tennis bracelets are an all time favourite.Opt for this sleek and classy style.

http://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LW_sb845_w_bn.jpg

Gemstone Drop Earrings

I fell in love with these earrings the moment I saw them. How gorgeous are they! I even found a matching ring and tennis bracelet to make a complete set.

anjolee  three  prong gemstone and diamond earrings

http://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LW_sr18_gem_w_b.jpg

http://www.anjolee.com/bracelets/birthstone-gemstone-bracelets/Gemstone-Dreams-Diamond-Tennis-Bracelet.aspx

I even went ahead and dared to pair this jewellery set in an outfit.This is how I’d wear these:

Okay, enough hint-dropping!

Showstoppers

From men’s jewellery, to engagement rings and fashion pieces; you can always find the showstopping piece from Anjolee’s repertoire of jewellery that will allow your loved one to steal the show.

http://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LW_ms219_w_b.jpg

http://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LY_sr6_gem_y_b.jpg

http://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LW_bb18_w_b.jpghttp://www.anjolee.com/Admin/UploadImages/LargeGoldImages/LY_b120_y_b.jpg

See anything you like? Or have you got something else in mind? Head on over toAnjolee and have a custom order made especially for you!

I’m dreaming of a sparkly Christmas. Wishing you the same.

Love & Light

xx

Lydie


Tagged: anjolee, christmas gift ideas, jewellery

Bea’You’Ty: Best Winter Lipsticks To Try

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December’s here which means winter’s only just kicking in. Boots and Wellies have replaced our ever-so-comfy flats and courts. In the beauty department, plums, berries, burgundy and vampy red lipsticks are coming into play as we slowly stash away our bright pinks and oranges for next summer. But what are our favourite fall lipstick colours? This list covers some of the most popular dark lip colours everyone is sporting this winter. Here’s to putting your best pout forward this winter:

1. Mac Heroine

I was so sad when I heard this colour had been discontinued by MAC. It is super gorgeous. It’s bright enough to uplift an otherwise dark wintry ensemble without feeling too summery. What’s best, it is flexible and can be worn even in the summer when one is feeling feisty. I love :) MAC may not be stocking these babies but as usual, Ebay and Amazon are going forever strong. Grab one for yourself here. Hope they’re authentic though!

mac heroine for fall

mac heroine lipstick on dark skin

http://www.temptalia.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mac_heroinelipstick006.jpg

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/ac/5d/e6/ac5de6ee243cb04a6062f46785d0e96c.jpg

2. Mac Flat Out Fabulous

Mac Heroine may have been discontinued but there’s a new violet lippy in Mac town! This lipstick is simply flat out fabulous as its name suggests. Fabulous.

http://fashionista-next-door.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Faux-Leather-Skater-Skirt002.jpg

Fashionista Next Door

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/ac91f-dsc_0151.jpg?w=1066&h=1600

No Pain No Beauty

http://www.makeupzone.net/wp-content/uploads/retro-matte-flat-out-fabulous-look1.jpg

Makeupzone.net

3. Mac Fixed on Drama & Riri Hearts Mac Talk That Talk

These two shades are very similar. This sexy dark burgundy colour is one of Rihanna’s favourites. And I can see why she loves it so. Gorgeous.

http://www.specktra.net/content/type/61/id/212135/width/350/height/700/flags/LL

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/b2804-img_9713h.jpg?w=640&h=489

http://www.acomplicatedmelody.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/FallIntoDrama-600x400.jpg

Talk That Talk samples:

http://www.beautygala.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/talk5.jpg

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/94742-2013-10-1516-29-42.png?w=960&h=1280

La Belle Hair and Beauty

http://www.theglamorousgleam.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/mac-talk-that-talk-lipstick-91-680x542.jpg

The Glamorous Gleam



4. The Body Shop Colour Crush Lipstick, Damson in Distress 240

This is a personal favourite. I bought this a few weeks ago and I’ve been wearing it everyday ever since. It’s fabulous!

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/72bd8-tbs_damsonindistress_collage.jpg?w=725&h=537

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/486f7-tbs_damson7.jpg?w=725&h=482

Miss Delirium

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/18c2c-img_4263.jpg?w=1600&h=1195

The MakeUp Kit

5. Mac Cyber

Cyber is a very deep plum shade, this colour does not read as a deep red violet shade, it is simply a plum colour. This lipstick is a satin finish so it falls between creamy and matte. If you’re up for a dramatic wintry look, Cyber is the lippy for you.

mac cyber on dark skin

http://tarapook.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/photo162.jpg?w=640&h=898

mac smoked purple, mac cyber

Makeup By Lyla

http://thestylenewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Kelly-Rowland-With-Gorgeous-Ombre-Ponytail-4.jpg

http://fashionbombdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/3-claire-sulmers-fashion-bomb-daily-stella-jean-plaid-button-down-shirt-emma-cook-heart-print-skirt-christian-louboutin-black-pumps-shoes.jpg

The Fashion Bomb

http://fashionbombdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/Melody-Plum-Lipstick.gif

Similar colours:

-Wet n Wild Vamp it Up

wet n wild vamp it up

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/e462b-purplelip.jpg?w=1600&h=1170

Moptop Maven

 

6. Wet N’ Wild Sugar Plum Fairy

This is the closest dupe to the famous Mac Rebel berry plum lipstick. It pops deliciously on all skin tones and is one of the most popular Wet n Wild lip colours.

wet n wild sugar plum fairy perfect fall lip colours

Uncover The Untold

wet n wild sugar plum fairy beautybyjj

Beauty by JJ

7. Revlon Va Va Violet

This is a high shine and sexy vampy lipstick with a moisturising feel to it. It falls on the darker side of a plum shade which I love.

revlon va va violet lisptick for winter

Cloud Nine Kollective

Miss Nics Elegant Edge



8. Illamasqua 

Illamasqua Pristine,

In pure black matte finish.

illamasqua pristine

illamasqua pristine

http://cdn2.blovcdn.com/bloglovin/cc9abead66deeeadef12ab9dabc8449a5305d16c/n/aHR0cCUzQSUyRiUyRmkuaW1ndXIuY29tJTJGNU8zQmphOC5qcGc=

Illamasqua ESP

illamasqua esp

Blogger, Pwetty Bambi, looks effortlessly gorgeous in Illamasqua ESP lipstick which is a bright purple shade.

illamasqua esp lipstick on  dark skin

Pwetty Bambi

purple lipstick on dark skin

Pwetty Bambi

 

9. Mac Smoked Purple

mac smoked purple on dark skin

Discoveries of Self

http://31.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mebklwHRYs1rc41koo1_500.jpg

mac smoked purple swatch

Cosmetically-Challenged

http://www.glamour.com/images/beauty/2013/1/kerry-washington-dark-lipstick-h724.jpg

10. Mac Diva

Rich dark red shade that works on most skin tones.

mac diva winter lipstick

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/02/fe/a1/02fea12cdc14520c0bd8496adbe79023.jpg

Similar Colours:

-L’Oreal Temptress’ Kiss is a great dupe.

http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1402264/thumbs/o-JENNIFER-HUDSON-570.jpg?7

http://www.glamour.com/images/beauty/2013/09/lupita-nyongo-2-w724.jpg

http://www.vibevixen.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/vibevixen-angela-simmons-vampy-lip.jpeg

http://www1.pictures.stylebistro.com/gi/Rihanna+Makeup+Dark+Lipstick+O2AJSpsaHU9l.jpg

11. Mac Rebel

One of Mac’s most famous lipsticks. Great for every season. Simply a must-have.

jessica white makeup

mac rebel on dark skin

Wonders Of Beauty

Kyss My Style

 

12. Maybelline Brazen Berry

A great dupe for Mac Heroine. Bright, purply and fun!

mac heroine dupe

http://24.media.tumblr.com/aa95c0c4391543817c51bb12c6fce824/tumblr_ml2ffbGsYY1rr86kyo2_1280.jpg

 

12. Lancôme

Lancome’s Pense a Moi, Chez Prune or Bordeaux look like really cool wine reds to try this winter.

lancome dark lipsticks

http://www.elle.com/cm/elle/images/co/Spring-Makeup-Trend-Dark-Red-Lipstick-mdn.jpg

http://www.funmiogunja.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/selita-ebanks-new-york-premiere-versailles-73-roberto-cavalli-fall-2012-dress-2.jpg

http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/08/32/1/192/1922153/5210d93cf4e58db9_149825939.xxxlarge_1.jpg

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/fb5f5-img_6842.jpg?w=1365&h=2048

Love By Lynn

 

13. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Poupre Divin 39

My favourite lipstick range ever. I have this shade and it rocks! Simply divine. A little bit on the pricey side at £25 each but well worth the splurge.

ysl rouge pur couture 39 poupre divin

http://artbecomesyou.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/42809-yslrougepurcouture39.jpg?w=1600&h=1266

ysl poupre divin rouge pur couture

ysl rouge pur couture 39

The FashionBomb Daily

ysl rpc 39

Makeup Bee

 

There are so MANY winter perfect lippies out there. I can’t list all of them. 

If you’re interested in discovering more colours that are great for all year round, see this amazing lipstick swatch index I discovered on Epiphanniea blog.

lipstick index

They all look amazing. I’ve already got a few new one on my list :)

What colours are you drawn to this winter?

Spill.

I know Mac’s Rebel, Body Shop’s Damson in Distress & YSL’s Pourpre Divin are my regulars.

I fell in love with picture of Selita Ebanks. Eye makeup is understated amazingness! I’ll be putting my Shimmer Waves Body Shop Bronze set to work and recreating this look.

selita ebanks flawless makeup

Love & Light xx

Lydie

 


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty, Uncategorized Tagged: body shop, chanel allure, dark skin dark lipstick, illamasqua, mac rebel, maybelline, rimmel, wet n wild, winter lipstick, ysl lipstick

Cameroonian Fashion Blogger of the Year

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My country people, first of all Happy New Year 2014 from me (ABY) to you.

IMG_2493jf

It’s established by now that I do love a good countdown.

And what sums up a year better than a good ole countdown of all your favourite things.

We kicked off nicely with most fashionable women of 2013. Let’s carry on with our favourite Cameroonian Lifestyle & Fashion Bloggers.

2013 has certainly been a breakout year in terms of fashion and blogging in Cameroon. It has seen an immense growth of general fashion consciousness in Cameroon and more people have taken up blogging or have becomes more familiar with the term blog than last year. I am ashamed to say that I only know a handful of Cameroonian bloggers but hopefully we’re only going to get better at it in 2014.

First off, blogging is HARD. Unless you are a full time blogger, you have to juggle your job, personal life and daily routine to make enough time to blog. If you want to stay on top of your game, that means when your friends are going for drinks after work or on the weekends, you are composing blog posts and dreaming up possible web designs to boost your audience. I don’t know what either of these ladies have to put up with each week but they are doing a great job. These ladies are doing an amazing job and I think this category will encourage more people to blog. Here are the top Cameroonian blogs of 2013 (myself exclusive, wink).

These are the ladies who are giving me a run for my money in the fashion blogging game ;)

Please vote for your #phaves.

1.Cynthia of Addicted 2 Etsy

Does Cynthia really need an introduction? Well, if you insist…She’s the NYC-based naturalista queen of understated effortless glam. One of the bloggers with the most unique style and a very cool informative blog. She whips out vintage style with a contemporary twist without a single care in the world. Am all about trying new trends and Cynthia serves just that. That’s why she’s made my fave Camer blogger of the year list. See her ABY feature here. Swoon at some of her stylish shots below:

addicted to etsy

cameroon blogger

addicted 2 etsy

simply cyn cameroon

cameroon style blogger

2. Brenda of Can Never Be a Skinny Bish

One thing I love about Brenda; she’ll never be your average skinny bish. This Canada-based Cameroonian blogger is all about prints, curves and personality. There’s never a boring day in Brenda’s style book. Even her casual fits tell an interesting story. You can’t help but love her. Her knack for recreating trends and making one item so versatile is amazing. She just only celebrated her 24th birthday so there’s plenty more to come from this young Cameroonian talent! See her ABY feature here. Enjoy some of her best fashionable moments:

skinny bish

3. Juliette of Romeo’s Fashion Fix

Juliette is only 20 and already she’s making waves! Her badass-chick-meets-fashion swag is not for the faint-hearted. And with head of hair like hers, Juliette is certainly not one to go by unnoticed. She oozes fierce fashionista. Love the way she puts her own spin into looks and she even creates most of her own outfits. Give it a few more years and we’ll be buying her amazing designs in shops worldwide! I always look up Juliette’s blog when I’m in the mood for a daringly good DIY. She also gets major points for keeping things interesting with her fiery hairstyles. Juliette is an up and coming designer and has proven herself worthy to be one of the best bloggers this year by far. Flick through her fiery fierceness and decide for yourself.

romeos fashion fix

romeo fashion fix

romeo fashion fix

4. Fanny of Lafreecaine

Why hadn’t I thought of this before? I love her blog name! Fanny is a Cameroonian fashionista based in the US who is loves everything fashion forward. She’s always on top of her trends. Her ability to look so chic all the time is noteworthy. Fanny is inspired by fashionistas like Solange Knowles. She’s serving abstract prints, tailored pants and dope heels. I adore how she adds grunge into the girliest looks and gives it her own flavour. Personality always wins when it comes to styling and Fanny has got just that.She may have been away from her blog for a while now but I know she’ll be back with a bang in 2014 ;)

cameroonian blogger

cameroon blogs

camer blogger

camer blogs

lafreecaine

5. Mélocy of M’bem Di Fora

In true Cameroonian bilingual spirit, Mélocy’s blog is in French. She is a shopping fanatic and her dreams of one day owning one of the biggest closets in the world. Mélocy is also a beauty junkie so you’ll get to discover hair and makeup routines on her blog. If you especially are set on maintaining healthy relaxed hair, you want to subscribe to her blog. Her mane is divine :) She pulls out the stops without trying too hard. How many people can do that? Peruse her fashionable flicks below:

mben di fora

mbem di fora

7. Muke Alison of Alison’s Let’s Talk Fashion

Budding blogger Muke Ndando Alison only entered the scene this year but she’s making her mark! Not only is Muke a fashion blogger, but she also has a penchant for makeup and can style the beast out of any hair! Visit her blog for several hairstyle looks she’s bagged in her portfolio and make sure to keep her details in your contacts list in case you need your hair laid in the future. My fave outfits from her: the illusion blue dress, the red coat and monochrome look amongst others. Here are  a few of Muke’s outfits:

mookeh

8. Aïsha Aurore of All Aurore Everything

Aïsha Temfack is the beauty behind the blog All Aurore Everything. She is also in possession of one of the most radiant and beautiful smiles. With a knack for putting together bright colours and the most unexpected pieces together, Aurore proves herself to be a worthy contender for Best Cameroonian Blogger of the year. Spy some of her gorgeous ensembles below:

9. Harriet Nabola of MissBlizzers

Harrie is a breath of fresh air. If there’s one thing Cameroonians are good at, it’s being natural. Harriet is such a lady and oozes elegance. She is the queen of casual cool and very deserving to be on my Best Cameroonian Fashion Blogs of 2013. My favourite looks from  her are the blue ankara blazer, that statement red jumpsuit and the navy blue shirt dress and peach pumps. Cute! A testament to the truth that less is always more.

missblizzers

10. Enter My Closet

This gorgeous lady is a loving wife and mother of a cute little girl. My favourite part of her blog? When she recreates memorable celebrity looks and makes them her own. She has been serving elegant styling throughout 2013 and we’re hoping to see more in the coming year. I love her natural looks and she definitely knows how to keep her natural locks tamed.

11. Cecile of Modemamor

 Cecile Essono is a Cameroon born model, freelance stylist and fashion addict. Her colour-blocking is out of this world! She is a top contender for Cameroonian blogger of the year. She’s stylish, trend-conscious and wears prints like none other. What more could one possibly ask for? Check out some of her breathtaking ensembles:

cameroon blogs

modemamor

Those are my top bloggers this year by far. Who are your favourites?

Do you know someone who deserves to be here? Leave a comment. I’d like to know more Cameroonian (fashion) bloggers out there. Like I said, I only know a handful which is a shame.

Here’s me striding into 2014,

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HAPPY NEW YEAR BOO BOOS!

Love & Light

Lydie 

xx


Filed under: Afric'Art, Bea'You'Ty, Daily 'Art'tractions, SmArt Fashion Tagged: best blogs, best cameroon blog, blogger of the year, cameroon blogs, cameroon fashion, cameroonian fashion blog

Beauty: Dencia Unveils Skincare Line With a Controversial Name, ‘Whitenicious.’ Perfect For Dark Spots

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Cameroonian singer Dencia has officially released her skincare line controversially named Whitenicious. Dencia has found the perfect way to cash in on the ‘toning’ craze. 

A lot of people deal with acne prone skin, spots and blemishes. Whitenicious claims to be the answer to all dark spot concerns. Here’s what the official press release had to say:

“Whitenicious by Dencia” for dark spots which clears dark spots caused by anything from acne, wounds, hyper-pigmentation bruises etc… on any part of the body. It works on all skin types including sensitive skin and “Whitenicious by Dencia” for dark knuckles, knees and elbows. A lot of people suffer from hyper-pigmentation on these areas and this product clears up the pigmentation to match the rest of your skin. It can be used on all skin types and everyone from white to black.

whitenicious by dencia

whitenicious by dencia

dencia whitenicious

What do you think? Is this cream for you? Will you be copping Whitenicious for yourself?

I’m out!

Love & Light xx

 


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty, Daily 'Art'tractions Tagged: dark spots cream, dencia, skincare for marks, whitenicious, whitening cream

INTERVIEW: Dencia Defends Beauty Cream ‘Whitenicious’ (Full Interview with Ebony Magazine)

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A few weeks ago, Cameroonian singer Dencia released a highly controversial beauty product named ‘Whitenicious’ which is meant to be the answer to any dark spots or scarring problems. The singer has received severe backlash since then from every blog and social media platform you can ever imagine. The name of the product in itself has been considered offensive by many as it could imply that it is selling and encouraging self-hatred amongst women of colour and promoting the concept of bleaching and all of the assumed superiority that comes with it. Despite the backlash, Dencia stands behind Whitenicious and believes that she is in fact helping women overcome an obstacle.

whitenicious dencia

It’s a pity that even with all the backlash, the product sold out as soon as it was launched online. Dencia says the majority of her customers are African Americans. Which makes one wonder, if this product is getting so much backlash from the black community, why is it selling out? Are the very people who claim to despise this so much, secretly stacking up on Whitenicious? Whatever Whitenicious is, clearly there is a market for it and Dencia has cashed in on the opportunity. I do not condone bleaching. It is degrading and once it’s done, it cannot be undone. It is not a tan and it will not wash off. Dencia insists Whitenicious is NOT a bleaching cream. The majority of people beg to differ.

Ebony Magazine reached out to Dencia and here’s what she had to say to defend Whitenicious:

EBONY: So you know there’s been a lot of buzz about you on the internet here lately. Everybody’s talking about your new skin care line, Whitenicious. Tell me how you came up with [it.]  

Dencia: And I’m happy that they’re talking because my sales are skyrocketing. Anyway. A few months ago, I was coming back from Switzerland. I sat by this chemist. He’s from Switzerland. We started talking about all these things and he was like “You have really nice skin.” He asked me if I was Puerto Rican by the way. I was like “No, I’m African.” We started talking about skin care and stuff and then I told him how I’ve been doing all these things, going to dermatologists for the problems. Every woman does that. Like when you have a little spot on your face. I know I do. I’ll be running from dermatologist to dermatologist trying to find something to get rid of the dark spots. Unfortunately, all dermatologists will give you hydroquinone 4%. It don’t matter if you’re as dark as Alek Wek or you’re as White as a blonde girl from Malibu. They’ll give you the same thing. So he was telling me that he makes some products and that he has a line. He asked me if want to be the face of it. And I was like you know what? We’ll talk about it. I had come up with this mixture of things that I’ve been using, not for my skin but for my face for like when I had dark spots or when I hyperpigmented anywhere on my body. And so I sat down with him, we tested it, we looked at it, we added stuff and then we came up with the product. I tested it on me and on my sisters. I have a sister that has suffered with acne for a long time and she had dark spots. So she used it and it worked really good. And I went on Facebook and I asked my Facebook friends if they wanted to try it. They tried it, and it worked really well. And mind you, this product doesn’t have hydroquinone, it doesn’t have steroids, and it doesn’t have mercury.

So, when the time came to pick out the name for the product, I was talking to my best friend and she was telling me, if you’re picking out a name you have to look at something that is attractive. When you see Whitenicious, you see the container, you see the product, obviously you’re thinking this is gonna work, right? That’s what you’re thinking. We came up with different names. You know, I was coming up with all these glamorous things and my best friend was like “Nah, ‘Whitenicious’ is good.” And when she gave me the name, I was looking up definitions of white. Ok let me define how I see white. (reads) “The color white affects the mind and the body by aiding in mental clarity, promoting feelings of fresh beginnings and renewal assisting in cleansing, clearing obstacles and clutter and encouraging purification.” And guess what? Dark spots is obstacles. Hyperpigmenation is obstacles.

EBONY: Is dark skin an obstacle?

Dencia: No. Dark skin is beautiful.  Actually, I will send you pictures of when I was 16. I’m not that lighter from when I was younger, I’m not. The picture they’re passing around where I’m wearing the animal print underwear, that picture was three years ago and that was a tan. If anybody looks at that picture and you look at the oil on my skin, you would know it’s a tan. And it’s funny because one of my friends who was at the photo shoot with me that actually oiled me up with the tan sent me a message yesterday. She was like “Why are people going crazy about this picture when you were tanned on this picture?” I was never that dark in real life and I can send EBONY pictures of me when I was like 15, 16. And guess what? I don’t even care because they’re bringing me business. Because when you take that picture and you put a picture of Dencia darker, this is what you’re telling people – the product really works. And guess what? People really want to buy it.  It’s what it is. I don’t really care.

EBONY: So…you haven’t bleached your skin, is what you’re saying? You were tan in the before pictures?

Dencia: Have I…Has my skin lightened from when…like from the past five years? Yes it has. It has. Has it drastically lightened? No it hasn’t. Is it what people are saying? No it’s not.

EBONY: Okay. But do you understand people’s response to the pictures? Because many people have become aware that skin bleaching is a big phenomenon around the world, particularly in West Africa where you’re from. And so then we see one picture of you or a few pictures of you where you look browner and then we see this new picture of you, and not just that it’s a picture of you per se, but an advertisement for a product called Whitenicious. And then it says “Say goodbye to pigmentation and spots forever.”

Dencia: First of all when I did the photoshoot…let me tell you something, I did the Whitenicious photo shoot on the 13th of December, 2013. I just came back from Paris. I was in Europe for a month and I was indoors. I don’t go outside a lot generally. If you’re light skinned and you stay indoors a lot it’s gonna give you that pale look. And then I had just been going back and forth to the hospital because I was not feeling too good. My health is not very stable and it’s not because of anything with this, it’s something that I’ve had since I was a little girl. I was dehydrated and they gave me the drips to hydrate me. And when you come out with all those things, it makes you fresh and it gives you that pale look because you’ve not been out in the sun. That is why those pictures look like that. And everybody, even my sister said “Are you okay?” because they knew I was not feeling good. So it’s not about being pale because I’m bleaching my skin. It’s just because I stay indoors a lot and I take a lot of vitamins. Lots. And all those things have effects on your skin. And in the past I’ve probably taken medications that… you know there’s a lot of medications that have side effects of lightening your skin too.

And anyway, the picture clearly says “Say goodbye to dark spots and hyperpigmentation.” I’m not saying “say goodbye to your Black skin and try to be like Dencia.” That’s not what I’m saying. I’m saying “say goodbye to dark spots and hyperpigmentation.” Now did I choose to do beginning pictures for a reason? Yes, I did. I did that because sexy sells. Period. I have men, White men, Black men, buying Whitenicous. Guess what is attracting them? Those pictures. And guess what they’re using it for? Dark spots. Not to bleach their entire skin. I don’t think a White man is trying to bleach his skin.

Trust me, I’ve been running this business for the past three weeks and I’ve read all these emails from girls telling me about how they have this hyperpigmentation, how they have these dark spots. I have seen so many pictures. These girls are not trying to bleach their skin. They’re just trying to get rid of these little things that is making them feel uncomfortable, you know?

EBONY: I hear you, I do. And you’re right, many women of African descent, many women of color, we do suffer from hyperpigmentation.  So there are lots of products on the market that work to fade out those spots, if you will. But there are also products… and you know this, especially in West Africa. We see the billboards, we see them in the markets, we see the women with all of the damage on their skin – there are products out there that are used to bleach the skin. Your product is called Whitenicious, of course people will buy it because they want to bleach.

Dencia: Ok. Will Whitenicious bleach your skin if you use it on all your skin? Yes, it will. 

Are we selling Whitenicous for that purpose? No, we’re not. Whitenicous comes in 30 ml and 60ml. You cannot use the 60 ml to bleach your whole skin. It’s impossible. And that costs about $150 each. 60 ml can’t even go on your whole feet. I don’t see anybody spending all that money to bleach their entire skin. I don’t see that happening. Now, do I have customers who come and buy stuff for over $2000? Yes, I do. Do I ask them what they want to do with it? No, I don’t. Do I know what they want to do with it? No, I don’t care because it’s their money, it’s how they want to spend it.

EBONY: I want to go back to something you said earlier. About your definition of white having to do with purification and clearing obstacles. Ok so that sounds like how the dictionary might define white. But what about how society defines white? You know that for many African people they see white–as in White people–as better. Still. And for some of the women who bleach, not that they are trying to be White women per se. No, not at all.  But what they are trying to do is to gain access to whatever it is they see White people having, whether that’s being seen as being beautiful or making more money or being more successful in society. And so people look at your ad, it’s called Whitenicious. They see Dencia in a way that they’ve never seen her before. Whether you care or not, whether it was your intention or not, do you understand that the success of your product could be because people think that they can use it to get as white as you?

Dencia: No, that’s not how I see it.  This is how I see it. Everybody that has something negative to say, 1- doesn’t need it and 2 – don’t have the money to buy it. First of all, let me clear this up. As of now 80% of people that buy my products are African American. It’s not Africans. People are saying that it’s Africans because they think I live in Africa. I go back and forth but I live here. I can send you the stats – it is African Americans. I have to be honest with you – I have TV personalities buying Whitenicious for over $1000. People who work for TV stations like Fox. I have celebrities buying Whitenicous and all of these people are African Americans, they are not Africans. My African market is just 10% because guess what? They don’t have credit cards to buy the products and I’m only taking credit cards or PayPal. And they don’t have that access, do you get what I’m saying? It’s these people that can access that.

Now, my other 10% is White people – I have White people from Europe, America, and everywhere buying Whitenicious. Now, I’m thinking to myself, what do they want to do with it? Of course they’re not trying to bleach their skin. Are Black people trying to get White to be accepted in society? No, I don’t think so. Now I can’t speak for everybody but first of all, White people love the darker skinned Africans. They like the African that is Alek Wek. There’s no in between for them. It’s extreme. You’re either at A or you’re at Z. Now, do you think Africans are lightening to appeal to the White man? No, they’re not because the White man doesn’t even like the light Africans. They like the Black Africans. Look at all the Africans that are successful in the world. They are as Black as Alek Wek. And if I was as Black as Alek Wek, I would never ever use anything on my skin. Trust me I wouldn’t.

EBONY” And I hear you in terms of those extremes, you’re right. Alek Wek, dark. Lupita N’yongo, dark. The mainstream loves that. And you’re right, there’s no in between or appreciation for in-between colors. So did you feel like because you weren’t that extreme color that you needed to kind of move to the other end of the spectrum?

Dencia: Honestly? Yes, I do feel that that is why I did it. I used to tan a lot. When I moved to America and I moved to L.A. I used to tan a lot to be dark like you see on that one picture because I wanted to appeal. I wanted to be an African. I wanted to come out as an African because that is what was winning. The dark African. And I would tan and but then I looked at it like, ‘you cannot go darker than you are. You can’t. There’s nothing in the world that can make you go darker than you are. But guess what? There’s something in the world that can make you lighter than you are.’ And listen, I grew up being a sickly. I’m always constantly sick and from the time I was a little girl. I’m not going to do anything that will put my life at risk because God has given me so many opportunities to be alive. Contrary to what people are saying “Oh, this is going to cause you cancer.” No, it wouldn’t. Whitening your skin will not cause you cancer. There is no, how do they call this thing?

EBONY: Medical research?

Dencia: Yes, there is no medical research!

EBONY: But there is.

Dencia: That it causes cancer?

EBONY: Yes!

Dencia: But guess what? The air you breathe outside causes you cancer.  Everything in the world causes cancer.

EBONY: If I tell you that for the last 40 years dermatologists all over the world, many of whom are in Senegal, in Nigeria, in Ghana, have done research to show that bleaching products, particularly those products with hydroquinone and corticosteroids, those products stop the production of melanin. And you know in West Africa we need melanin to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Naturally African people don’t get skin cancer because of how much melanin we have. But when we stop producing melanin, we make ourselves susceptible to skin cancer. And so because of that, because of skin bleaching, and because of the use of these products, we see an increase in the numbers of cases of skin cancer in Africa, when that wasn’t a medical issue that we suffered from before. Do you understand? So if I tell you, Dencia, yes you can get skin cancer from lightening your skin, are you concerned?

Dencia; You know what? I’m not. First of all, body lotion cannot stop melanin. Melanin comes from inside, not externally. That’s why people still have hyperpigmentation. You can bleach your skin all you want you will still produce melanin. Body lotion does not stop your melanin from coming. It does not.

EBONY: But it does.  

Dencia: I can assure you. It does not. It doesn’t, you can’t rub oil on your skin and stop melanin. It is something your body produces from inside. That doesn’t even make sense. And now, secondly, if hydroquinone and all those things cause cancer why do dermatologists in America still prescribe it? Straight up. Why do they do that if it causes cancer? Why is it FDA approved in America if it causes cancer?

EBONY: We can go back and forth about the medical evidence. And there is medical evidence. Hydroquinone is approved because it was originally created for White bodies and White people don’t need melanin in the ways that Black people do. Now that they prescribe it to Black bodies, or bodies that have higher doses of melanin, we see more of these damaging effects. And it’s not that hydroquinone by itself causes cancer. It’s the higher, unregulated doses that we find in other so-called Third World countries, mixed with the steroids and other things. Prolonged used over time while still having to be under the hot sun is what causes cancer. In the United States you’re not supposed to be able to get more than 2% without a prescription, and only up to 4% with a prescription, but when you travel to other places in the world, you can find upwards of 25-30% of hydroquinone in these products.

Denicia: Yeah, well, Whitenicious doesn’t have hydroquinone and it doesn’t have steroids and it doesn’t have mercury because guess what? I’m not gonna put those things on my body because I am very conscious when it comes to my health. My grandmother spent millions on me as a child growing up being sick and I’m not gonna grow up and mess up my life after all that money was spent to keep me alive. And anybody who knows me knows that I’m the girl who will go to the doctor for anything. My doctor is tired of seeing me by the way. And I can assure you that they’ve tested me for everything and it’s never caused me any harm. I’m being honest. If you want, I will send 

you my medical records. I don’t mind doing that. I’m one of those people who speaks with facts and I speak out of experience. Again, Whitenicious clearly states, “Say goodbye to dark spots and hyperpigmentation.” If a Black person thinks their whole body is hyperpigmentation then so be it. I don’t know what to say.

EBONY: But you know? That’s what’s funny, Dencia. When I first looked at the ad and saw the words that was the same thing I said, but I was talking about you.  [I thought] ‘So you think your whole body is a spot?’

Dencia: No, I do not. Look, with Whitenicious honestly my intention is not to sell to the average dark-skinned person. I’m not saying that you should lighten your skin, it’s better. It’s not. I have nieces and nephews who are dark. And I mean dark. And they will not tell you anything but my auntie tells me that I am beautiful the way that I am and that I should never mess with my skin. Any dark person I know will tell you. And I remember this little girl from Africa sent me an email and she said she gets laughed at in school and gets bullied because she’s dark. She said she has all these dark spots and she wants me to help her with Whitenicious so she can have a better skin tone. I told her to send me her picture. So she sent it and I looked at her and she’s very beautiful. Gorgeous. Very beautiful. She does have some dark spots here and there but she’s really beautiful. I sent her back a message and I told her to send her phone number. She sent it, I called her, I spoke to her. In the beginning she was pissed off that I didn’t want her to get light but after talking to her she understood where I was coming from. I told her she was beautiful. And I talk to her here and there because I want to encourage her that you should not let people get to you. Don’t do something because people want you to do it.

EBONY: So you didn’t help her? You didn’t help her lighten her skin?

Dencia: No, and I will not do that to her because guess what? She’s a beautiful dark-skinned girl. She’s beautiful.

EBONY: But what about you? Now when I look at the before picture, and I know you said you were tan, but I’m looking at a woman who’s beautiful. Beautiful skin color, rich skin tone. And then the after picture I see a woman who’s very pale. I can’t see any color, or any undertones. When you look back and you look at those pictures, when you see Dencia before, what about her? Did you think she was pretty?

Dencia: I’ve always been a beautiful girl. It didn’t matter if I was Black, White, yellow, blue, green. I have always been a very beautiful girl. It didn’t matter. Do I look more beautiful than I was before? Did I look more beautiful before than I am now? No. My beauty is who I am inside and out. It’s what is in my heart, it’s what I do for people, [and] it’s what I read in the Bible that makes me a better person. Do you get what I’m saying? I read the Bible a lot and I don’t see any place in the Bible that says that “If you bleach yourself, if you change your skin color, it’s a sin.” I have never seen that so please, if you’ve seen it let me know so I can go read that part of the Bible.

EBONY: Okay so I’m looking at this one article online, and it has the same picture you were talking about on it. The before picture with you in the leopard underwear and the title says that skin bleaching is self-hatred and it suggests that you have a lack of self-love.

Dencia: (laughing) That’s funny. Do you know why I’m laughing? It’s funny because I come from a really large family but I have always been the center of attention in my family. I get everything I want. My family told me every time I was beautiful. They treated me like a princess. And in school I was always the popular girl everybody wanted to hang with, everybody wanted to be friends with. I was loved. Do I love myself? Hell yeah! I love myself a lot. I love myself, my family loves me, I’ve gotten nothing but love from people. Do I get hate from outside? Yes. Did I get insulted? Yes. Did I let that get to me? No. Was I ever bullied? No. You can’t even bully Dencia. You can’t. So it’s not about self-hate. Do the people who bleach their hair, the people who put perm on their hair, do they hate themselves? No. I don’t think they do. People who wear contacts, do they hate themselves? No. I don’t think they do. People who put fake nails, fake eyelashes, fake Brazilian hair and all those things, do they hate themselves? No they don’t.

EBONY: Why do you think they do it?

Dencia: Because they like it. They think it looks good. Does that mean that people who wear those things hate themselves? No. It’s just because they think it looks good. Thinking something looks good doesn’t mean you hate what you have. You see what I’m saying? That’s how I see it. And everybody who was questioning Dencia about her skin does all of the things I just listed. Does it mean they hate themselves? If they think I changed my skin because they think I hate myself then they hate themselves too because putting fake lashes, you’re changing yourself. Straightening your hair, wearing fake hair, it means the whole world hates themselves right?

EBONY: Good question. So why did you decide to lighten your skin?

Dencia: Why did I get a couple of shades lighter than I was? That’s a personal choice. That is what I wanted to be. And honestly, I just wanted to. I’m very daring. I like trying things. I’m not doing it because I wanna have boyfriends. And I’m not doing it because I want anybody to accept me. It’s because I just wanted to do it.

EBONY: Did you think it would make you more successful as an artist?

DENCIA: No, it wouldn’t and it didn’t. But you see what just happened in America with this whole Whitenicious thing? Last year I was telling my sister and her husband that I’m gonna take over the world in 2014. I’m gonna be talked about every where in this world. And that is what happened. But unfortunately it happened…well it’s not unfortunate, but it happened with Whitenicious. …

EBONY: So then you lightening your skin got you the attention that you wanted?

DENCIA: Actually, you know what? I’m not looking for attention, I’m not trying to be famous, I’m trying to be rich. Don’t get it twisted. I’m not trying to be broke and famous.

EBONY: But Whitenicious is making you rich.

DENCIA: Is Whitenicious making me rich? Whitenicious is putting money in my pocket but it’s not as much as the money that I have spent being a celebrity.  It hasn’t gotten to that point. Trust me I’ve made a lot of money off Whitenicous in 3 weeks. A lot of money. A lot of money that I didn’t even expect. And I’m using it to build an orphanage in Cameroon. I’ve always wanted to build an orphanage but the only way that I could really realize this project was by starting a business. And then Whitenicious fortunately happened.

EBONY: But why Whitenicious? Out of all the business that you could have engaged in, why Whitenicious?

DENCIA: Why Whitenicious? Because that’s a business that no celebrity is doing. A lot of celebrities have lightened their skin, we all know them. Them Beyoncés, them Rihannas, them Nicki Minajs.  But nobody has been honest. This is about honesty. This is about being yourself. You get what I’m saying? For me, Dencia to step out and do this thing knowing that I’ll get so much backlash that is because I’m honest with myself and I’m comfortable with who I am.

EBONY: So you don’t really care about the backlash?

DENCIA: No. No, I do not. I have more important things going on in my life. I have my health, I have my career, I have so many things. I have an orphanage I’m trying to build. Where do I have time to sit and think of these people? I don’t. Because I don’t really feel bad about everything you guys are saying, I don’t.  Because “she, me, her I don’t care” in my Tamar voice. You guys talk sh*t about everybody. You guys have said too much sh*t about Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, but guess what? They’re winning. They’re at the top of their game. Why don’t you just see that what you’re doing is not helping you 

or them and just try to better yourself and be successful and bring out something. Instead of sitting there and bashing Whitenicious how about somebody bring out Blackenicious? Then we’ll know that you’re doing something instead of being ignorant. So keep talking. I don’t care because my sales are skyrocketing. They have all these stories talking so much s*it and it’s funny because people come and they’ll tweet, “Where can I buy Whitenicious? I just read about it on Bossip.” I take negative and turn it into positive.

EBONY: So Whitenicious is hugely successful. You sold out in how long?

DENCIA: We sold out in like 24 hours. We actually started Whitenicious with 5,000 products and we’re at 15,000 right now.

EBONY: So you started with 5,000 and that sold out in 24 hours? And then you went back to production?

DENCIA: Yes, and we’re at 15,000 and before this week ends we’ll be at 20,000. And we have back orders. I wanted to go for glamour, I wanted to go all out. You see how the container is all beautiful? That is the trick. Most people don’t even buy Whitenicous because of what is inside, it’s what is outside. It’s what it is.

EBONY: Okay, so [as of] right now today, you’ve sold 15,000?

DENCIA: Over 15,000. And we’re back ordered. But you know we’re working, my team is working hours on hours. Like we didn’t expect it. Whitenicious is bigger than Dencia right now. I have major companies sending me emails that they want to talk to me about Whitenicious. I have big department stores wanting to carry Whitenicious. It’s bigger than me right now. It is.

EBONY: What is the product line? Is it just a cream? Or is it a complete line of products.

DENCIA: For now, it’s just the cream but I’m thinking of making an oil and then a stretch mark oil. We’re still testing that. We’re making skin oil and I’m testing that, trying that to see how it works. Oil is very essential for your skin. Again it doesn’t matter how Black, White or blue you are, oils are very, very essential.

EBONY: Now you know there have been all kinds of products for hyperpigmentation, there are things that have been around for years and I don’t know that they’ve been as successful as Whitenicious. What do you think is the key to Whitenicious success? How do you sell out of 5,000 products in a day if it’s just for hyperpigmentation?

DENCIA: You know what? It’s God. Honestly, I don’t know. Like I can’t even explain. I think its God. Everything I touch turns into gold. And it’s not just today. I have run businesses before. My first I was like 15. I had a hair salon and a clothing store. And it was really successful. I just think some people are born to be what they are. It was really successful. And if you believe in yourself and you believe in something and you pray to God to make it successful it’s gonna happen. It’s no way it won’t happen. I have other things I could do. I have other things I am doing. Like everything you see me wearing, I make them. I have made stuff for a lot of celebrities in America. I have made stuff for Nicki Minaj, I have made stuff for Christina Milian, I have made stuff for Lil’ Mama, I’ve made stuff for Rihanna. I’ve made stuff for many celebrities. I do design well. I do hair very well. You see all the hair I have on? The wigs or whatever? I make those wigs. I sew, I make shoes, I do all those things. Now, why didn’t I get in with these things to the market? Because it’s saturated. Everybody and their mama and their grandmama and grand uncles have clothing lines. Everybody is selling hair. Everybody is doing these things. I don’t follow the pack, I lead the pack. But my clothing line is still gonna come out, my shoe line is still gonna come out. I just do it exclusively for celebrities.  I have a really big project I’m working on in America. When that project comes out, I’m gonna be able to market the other things that I have but for right now Whitenicious is a better market. Whitenicious markets itself. I don’t need to do nothing.

EBONY: But you are the marketing. People look at you and assume that Whitenicious is able to do that.

DENCIA: It’s not really that. It’s just that people need the product. They see how it works. We put pictures of before and after, it’s not about me. And people are amazed at it. And again, all these people have these dark spots. Like people send me pictures and I feel so bad. Like these girls will send me pictures of the dark spots on their faces and I’m like wow. They don’t send me pictures like “Look at me, I wanna bleach my whole skin. No. You’d be surprised. They don’t. In 10,000 emails it’s just like 10 people saying that “Oh I’m dark, I wanna whiten my skin like Dencia” or whatever. And when they do that, we ask them to send pictures and when they send me pictures, this is what I tell them – “You’re beautiful just the way you are. Don’t try to be Dencia. Just try to be you.” Because I, Dencia I’m not trying to be anybody but me. What I do with my skin as an adult is what I want, it’s my choice. It’s not influenced by anybody. You get what I’m saying?

There’s no place on my website that says bleach your whole skin. No. And if people took time to read and comprehend they will understand better. We live in a world where people just see headlines. And that is what is killing us Black people. And that is what is killing us Black people. I tell you, my brother. We don’t read. We don’t take time to understand. We’re busy insulting people.  Why are you sitting talking sh*t about Whitenicious when you could be talking some good stuff and appreciating a girl who needs it somewhere? Why? There’s people who come on Twitter and talk about being bullied and talk about how they’re suffering from self issues. Why don’t you go and encourage them instead of sitting and bashing Whitenicious. Why not help somebody who needs it? You get what I’m saying? 

EBONY: I do, I hear you. So last words? What’s the last word from Dencia on Whitenicious?

DENCIA: I’m going to say that it’s important as human beings to take our time to read and understand things instead of just assuming and looking ignorant because that’s what a lot of people look like in my eyes. Yeah, you might be mad that I said that, but it’s the honest truth. Whitenicious is what it is. You guys don’t like people who are honest. Take people for who they are and accept people for being honest about who they are, what they do and all that. If I sat there and lied about everything about who I was they would honor me, they would adore me.

And for people out there looking at celebrities like their role models, you need to find a role model that you know, that you see, that you watch everyday, that you watch get better, that you watch grow, that you talk to. That is the best way to make somebody a role model. Don’t look at us on TV, don’t look at us on magazines and think we’re your role models. No, take out the positive things and use it. Don’t try to look at the negatives. And please don’t believe everything you read on the blogs. You can believe this what you’re reading on EBONY so long as they transcribe it the right way.

dencia whitenicious

(Interview courtesy of EBONY).

Love & Light xx

Lydie


Filed under: Afric'Art, Bea'You'Ty Tagged: bleaching cream, dark spot cream, dencia, Dencia Defends Beauty Cream 'Whitenicious' (Full Interview with Ebony Magazine), dencia interview, ebony magazine, skin colour, skin lightening, whitenicious

Beauty: Under The Wiggery – Nicki Minaj Reveals Long & Healthy Natural Hair

Editorial: Lupita Nyong’o For New York Magazine


Miss Cameroon USA 2014: Meet The Contestants

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DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT THE OFFICIAL VOTING LINK

Cameroon is also known as ‘Africa in Miniature’ which means it has a little bit of every African aspect in it. Cameroon boasts some of the most diverse cultures and land  and exhibits all major climates and vegetation of the continent: coast, desert, mountains, rainforest, and savanna. In the same light too, the women of Cameroon are very diverse and unique.

Miss Cameroon USA has once again launched the 2014 edition of one of our most favourite pageants. Offering beauties from various regions of Cameroon. Who are this year’s qualifying contestants? Let’s meet them:

1. Ndemazia Nora.F

Age: 23
Height: 5’10″
Hobbies: Dreaming, Traveling, Communing, Music and Exploring Society.
State: Bronx, New York
College: City University of New York(CUNY)
Major: Paralegal studies
Career Aspirations: Working hard to become a successful corporate/Business Lawyer, A diplomat and a woman of power.
Mission: Quality education for orphans in Cameroon. To eliminate the sorrows of the left out thousands, I make it my mission to identify desperate orphans in Cameroon and reach out to their educational needs. No orphan deserves to be left behind as they also have natural human rights to Life, Liberty, and Property.

2. Heidi Ntoh Time

AGE: 21
HEIGHT: 5’9″
HOBBIES: writing, listening to music, dancing and all things fashion&beauty.
STATE AND CITY OF RESIDENCE: Springfield, Virginia.
COLLEGE: NOVA
MAJOR: Social Sciences/Healthcare Management.
CAREER ASPIRATIONS: I intend on using my degree to work with the elderly and also guiding/mentoring the younger generation to be confident and educated.
MISSION: (If you become Miss Cameroon USA what will you do for Cameroon and your community in the USA)?: I intend on creating and encouraging a sense of commitment. To create a big brother – little brother relationship where our Cameroonians here in the USA in various fields (educators, healthcare givers, artists, entrepreneurs etc) can mentor young Cameroonians back home who have an interest in their specialized fields of interest. I call it an educational chain reaction because the guidance is not only monetary but it will create a long lasting impact as they too can mentor/pass down knowledge to youths younger than they are in their communities who have an interest in their respective fields.

3. Kamne Nadege Ngam

AGE: 25yrs old

HEIGHT: 5 ’10″

HOBBIES: I love to sing,dance,travel,and make people laugh.

CITY OF RESIDENCE: I live in Alexandria, Virginia.

COLLEGE: Am a student at Nova Alexandria am taking prerequisites for speech pathology.

CAREER ASPIRATIONS: I want to be a musician and a model. I love entertaining people and I love to see people smile and I know that music has the power to do that. I also want to be a speech pathologist because I love languages and I love to see people who can express themselves properly.
MISSION: My platform is rape. I want to create awareness on this issue because it is eating deep into our community and nothing is being done about it.

4.  Marie-Anne Audige

Age: 22
Height: 5’6″
Hobbies: Dance, Sports, and Travel
State and city of residence: Silver Spring, Maryland
College: Bachelor’s Degree from McGill University (Montreal, Canada)
Major: Majored in International Management and International Development Studies
Career aspiration: My ultimate career goal is to become a social entrepreneur by starting my own design company in Cameroon. I believe this career path is the best middle ground between my personal goals and shared community interests of economic prosperity and social well-being for my country, Cameroon.

Mission: GIRLS EDUCATION - I support the wonderful mission of AUMAZO, INC., and will invest in the educational future of girls in Cameroon and eventually around Africa.

AUMAZO, INC. is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization whose purpose is to empower girls in Cameroon with educational opportunities to attend high school in order to enjoy more successful lives as young adults.
AUMAZO, INC’s first boarding school is under construction in Bankondji, a village located near the city of Bafang in the West Province of Cameroon. The organizations’ current objective is to complete the school’s infrastructure and welcome the first 50 students by fall 2015.
My goal is to help them raise the walls of at least 3 out of the 8 classrooms they intend to build.

As Miss Cameroon USA, I will firstly complete my commitment to my platform by raising awareness and creating visibility to the work that AUMAZO, INC. is doing in Cameroon. I will also mobilize the resources and support needed to accomplish my goal of raising the 3 classroom walls.

Secondly, I will act as a US representative for Cameroonian girls by advocating for girls’ high school education in Cameroon. I will be their voice by bringing to light issues that affect them daily such as school fees and access to community-based educational institutions. I will also serve as the bridge between the girls in Cameroon and those in the United States and help both groups create a friendship that will translate into long term relationships through a Pen Pal program.

5. Brenda Andin Njinjoh

AGE: Born August 21, 1989 (24)
HEIGHT: 5’8″

HOBBIES: Church, Volunteering, reading, interest in women empowerment,health, business, fashion and beauty, blogging

STATE AND CITY OF RESIDENCE:Takoma Park, Maryland

COLLEGE: University of Maryland, College Park 2011currently a part time premed student
MAJOR:Doubled Majored in Public / Community Health and Women’s Studies
Premed

CAREER ASPIRATION: In the near future I will be Dermatologist and Politician

MISSION: Every girl in Africa is gifted and full of potential. I believe girls in Cameroon should have resources to improve their reading and writing skills . My micro project will be to promote literacy for under served girls in Bamenda Cameroon between 9-12. I want to motivate and empower girls in primary school through reading and writing by forming a reading club. As the leader of the group, I plan to deliver books and literacy resources such as dictionaries and journals to enrich their experience with other participants in the
club. I have partnered with a recognized Bali women’s group, the Nkuma Nfed-Nfed, a national and international non profit organization active in government primary schools in Bali. After introducing my
platform, they were so eager to help me transform my vision of the reading club into reality by pairing me with great mentors in the United States and also in Cameroon to make up sure the project will be
carried out successfully.

6. Raissa Sandra Tchoffo

AGE: 19
HEIGHT: 5’08″
HOBBIES: Long walks, reading, meditating, shopping and music
STATE AND CITY OF RESIDENCE: Arlington, Texas
COLLEGE: University of Texas at Arlington
MAJOR: Finance
CAREER ASPIRATIONS: Private Equity Banker
MISSION: International Travel and Global Citizenship - As Miss Cameroon USA, I will help educate those aspiring to travel to America for a better future. Letting them know their options and providing answers to any questions or concerns. Many are already here, lost, alone, at risk of deportation, with neither a home, an education nor a job; I will be their voice. I will help our younger generation being raised in America to positively embrace the American culture not to replace but compliment our African culture and make then good global citizens. I represent hope for a better tomorrow.

7.  Lila L. Ndze

Age: 26
Height: 5’ 2”
Hobbies: Dancing, shopping, gourmet cooking
City/State of Residence: Lewes, DE
College: Bachelors of Science in Nursing, minor in Mathematics from Viterbo University, WI
Career Aspiration: I working towards becoming a Nurse Anesthetist and Philanthropist
Mission: Preventive health and education on Heart Disease and Diabetes. I am working towards establishing the Godheart Foundation which is a non-profit organization focused on teaching fellow Cameroonians that the Knowledge of your health status and symptom recognition can are crucial to the sustenance of healthier, longer and happier lives. Hypertension and Diabetes are the building blocks for so many debilitating diseases such as Strokes and Heart Attacks (to name a few). Providing understandable and relatable information on healthcare is a major part of my career which I love and I will love to empower us, Cameroonians to be more conscious and sensitive to monitoring our health status. Hypertension and Diabetes are very preventable diseases that plague many families in our community like they have affected my family and can result in rapid deterioration in health when not properly prevented, identified or managed. My goal is to provide services, share knowledge and first aid skills that could help us be more mindful of the importance of basic health maintenance in order to lead healthier, happier and longer lives.

8. Angela Akwaji Njob

AGE: 22
HEIGHT: 5’7″
HOBBIES: working out, playing soccer, singing & dancing.
STATE AND CITY OF RESIDENCE: Glen Burnie , Maryland
COLLEGE: (if a graduate, state from which college): Morgan State University
MAJOR: Nursing
CAREER ASPIRATION: Upon graduation next year, I want to go to medical school to obtain my degree to be a a Cardiac Surgeon.
MISSION: I want to go back to Ngie (The Village I grew up in) as well as other nearby villages. Where People often died on their way to the hospital because the distance was so far away and a lot of people died from simple complications that could have been prevented by CPR or proper First Aid Care. to have workshops , teaching CPR and First Aid care, this will help save/sustain lives until they get to the hospital.

9. Kamegni N Paule

AGE: 26

HEIGHT: 5’11″

HOBBIES: I like singing; dancing; went to cinema;travel; shopping and love have fun. I’m in los Angeles California

MAJOR: Marketing and Communication

CAREER ASPIRATION: I want to be a journalist; or be an singer artist because I love music it’s my first passion .

MISSION: If I become Miss ; I will go back to Cameroon this year and give my help to children who don’t have a family;and form and organization to raise funds for the cause. For my Community in the US, i would like to inspire the younger generation to take their education seriously.

There you have it. The Miss Cameroon USA 2014 Contestants. They all look gorgeous!

The pageant takes place on Saturday APRIL 5th 2014, 7PM at the HAMPTON CONFERENCE CENTER, 207 Hampton Place, Capitol Heights, MD. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

For more information visit the Facebook Page.

Who will you be rooting for come April 2014?

 

DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT THE OFFICIAL VOTING LINK

 

Tickets are selling fast! To book your tickets go here.

The official voting link will be updated here once it goes live.

Love & Light xx

Lydie


Filed under: Afric'Art, Bea'You'Ty Tagged: Angela Akwaji Njob, beauty pageant, Brenda Andin Njinjoh, cameroon beauty, charline ndi, heidi ntoh time, Kamegni N Paule, Kamne Nadege Ngam, lila ndze, lilian ndze, marie anne audige, miss cameroon usa, Miss Cameroon USA 2014, Ndemazia Nora, paule kamegni, Raissa Sandra Tchoffo

Beauty Discussion: Dencia Continues To Defend ‘Whitenicious’ (VIDEO INTERVIEW)

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Since the release of Dencia‘s ‘Whitenicious’ beauty product, the product has had a lot of mixed reviews (as expected). Dencia continues to defend her product.

Channel 4 News sat down with the pop singer and this is what she had to say:

 

‘Whitenicious’ is an outrageous name for a product which is Dencia probably picked it. the product is literally selling itself!

It’s so popular now that an interview/documentary with Oprah Winfrey Network TV (OWN) is in the works. And they are even considering paying Dencia for it. 

 

What are your thoughts?

Love & Light 

Lydie xx

 


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: cameroon music, channel 4 news, dencia, Dencia Continues To Defend 'Whitenicious' (VIDEO INTERVIEW), whitenicious

ABY Naturalista: Brittney

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Hey beauties! I’ve realized my beauty and hair posts get most of my traffic (check the sidebar —–> for my MOST POPULAR posts), so I’ve decided to serve up more beauty related material.

Natural hair is tough to maintain! A lot of people have been going natural lately, including moi, so I thought it was best to scout for some SERIOUSLY HOT naturalistas on the web and ask them what they did to maintain their nappy locks.

Not everything may work for everyone. But sometimes it’s just good to know what others are doing, how they are doing and what’s working for them. Get ready to be blown away by this segment. I’ve got a whole list of naturalistas lined up. If you’re on a natural journey yourself and would like to share your growth and tips please email artbecomesyou@yahoo.com.NOTE: This feature is NOT bloggers or vloggers only. ANYone who is a naturalista is welcome to share. Let’s crack on.

We’re kicking off ABY Naturalista with the fierce Brittney. I asked her  a few fun questions and here’s what she had to say:

A lil intro…My name is Brittney aka Naptural Elenore! Im from Cleveland, Ohio. I love all things beauty. I make regular youtube videos and post makeup and hair looks on instagram. 

Your roots… I’m African American and European

What was your hair like before you went natural? Before I went natural my hair was relaxed.

Why did you decide to go natural? I actually decided to go natural by accident. I was wearing wigs due to hair damage and I eventually got a lot of “new growth” from not relaxing my hair for so long. I was motivated to Big Chop after watching other youtubers.

Did you big chop (BC) or transition? I transitioned for 6 months and then Big Chopped.

How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural for one year and eight months.

Straightened natural hair

What’s your regimen? On wash day, I use an apple cider vinegar treatment for my scalp, pre-poo with coconut oil, co-wash, deep condition and then style my hair.

Do you protective style or go with the flow? The only protective style that I do is when I twist my hair for bed and put on my satin bonnet. If Im not going anywhere the next day then my hair remains in twists.

 

Your go to style…Two strand twists  :)

Any styling tips?  Always protect your hair when you go to sleep to prevent breakage. Also, since our hair is naturally dry, moisturizing it daily gives hair elasticity. Remember to seal in the moisture with a butter or oil.

Have you ever been tempted to relax? Nope!

Favourite products…Conditioner! Whenever I go to the store I’m always putting conditioner in my cart! Lately I’ve been really liking Tresemme Naturals and Eden Body Works deep conditioner.

Connect with me:

 https://www.youtube.com/user/napturalelenore

https://www.facebook.com/Napturalelenore

https://twitter.com/Napturalelenore

http://instagram.com/napturalelenore

Spy Brittney’s routine here:

 

Your hair is as fierce as your makeup Brittney. You look fantastic!

Did you love this? Leave your comments and stay tuned for more naturalistas.

What questions would you like me to include in my questionnaire?

Have a fashionably fabulous weekend.

Love & Light

Lydie xx


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: aby naturalista, big chop, naptural elenore, Natural hair, transition

ABY Editorial: Yvonne Nelson Sizzles On The Cover of Y! Africa Magazine April 2014 Issue

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Ghana’s finest, Yvonne Nelson covers the latest issue of A!Africa.

Ghollywood babe Yvonne Nelson covers Y! Africa‘s new issue.

Yvonne Nelson or as this issue brands her “The Queen of the Gold Coast“, dares to almost bare it all as she flaunts her hot toned figure in a sleeveless green biker jacket, styled with a long white maxi skirt, fierce cuffs and a statement necklace.

Yvonne speaks on her work, businesses, her vision for the creative industry and where she sees Africa’s future.

What do you make of this cover? See more pictures from the spread:

Yvonne-Nelson-for-Y-Africa-April-2014-BellaNaija-023

 

 

Credits
Photography: C. Asare Photography in Ghana.
Creativity, Art Direction & Profile: Tunde Kara
Styling: House of Cramer
Make Up: Contours by Valerie

Source: Y!Africa


Filed under: Afric'Art, Bea'You'Ty, Daily 'Art'tractions Tagged: editorial, ghollywood, y!africa magazine, yvonne nelson

ABY Naturalista: Nikki Venus

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 Hey there, ABYers! I was having that great TGIF-feeling on this cheery day until I switched on my phone and read that there’d been another bombing in Abuja, Nigeria. Please take a few minutes of your time and pray for the families of those who passed in the unfortunate incident. Seriously, this terrorism has got to stop.

Nevertheless, let’s not give a bunch of sad cowards get what what they want by moping around. 

Thanks for loving the new ABY: Naturalista feature. Our first feature last week was a hit! To liven and lighten up the Friday, I bring you another beautiful Naturalista, Nikki. I asked Nikki a few questions about her hair regime and here’s what she hit me up with:

ABY: Hey Nikki! Tell us about yourself and your heritage/ roots? 

My name is Nikki Venus owner of online boutique PinkIndigo.com. I’m mixed with black and more black. LOL! I know all black people say they have a little Indian in them but I actually do. My grandmother is half Cherokee and I come from a long line of family members with a head full of hair. My grandmother is 75 and still has a head full of hair. I hope to be just like her when I’m seasoned (I like to say “seasoned” rather than “old” ). Anywho, my hair is very thick and I would say my hair type is a 3c/4a.

ABY: I like the ring of ‘seasoned’ too. What was your hair like before you went natural?

Before I went natural my hair was actually very healthy. However, I did not like how flat my hair appeared after getting a relaxer.

ABY: Why did yo go natural?

I actually fought with going natural for a while. I started transitioning in 2011 for 4 months and then converted back. I’ve always loved my edges to be bone straight and didn’t have the will power to go through with it.  I sucked it up and decided in 2012, I’m really going to do it…..I wanted to challenge myself and have fuller and bigger hair. Plus prove to my little sister I can really do it.

ABY: Aren’t you glad you did?! Your hair looks gorgeous. Did you go Big Chop or transition?

Transition

 ABY: How long have you been natural?

Since 2012

ABY: What’s your hair regimen or what works for you?

Currently, I co-wash (wash with a conditioner) once a week (Sundays) and shampoo once a month (sometimes twice—depending on build-up). The night before I co-wash/shampoo I do a pre-poo.

 ABY: Do you protective style or go with the flow?

I always wear twist-outs! Maybe a wig from time to time. Current favorite style is a twist-out only because I have not mastered a perfect wash n go.

 ABY: Any styling tips or tricks?

Moisture, Moisture, and More Moisture! Pre-Poo your hair at night in four sections, place a plastic cap on and  secure it with a scarf on top and go night night. Next day, shampoo or co-wash your hair by each section. After each section has been cleaned apply your favorite oil to that section and then twist. Leave the oil in your hair. Your hair will be super moisturized!  Now, this is what works for me and I love it!

ABY: Have you ever been tempted to relax?

No and don’t plan on going back.

 ABY: Holy Grail products (products that you find yourself stocking up on because they’re the ish!)

Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Conditioner: I use this to co-wash

Design Essentials Defining Gel Cream: Great for twist outs and gives you a little hold. It’s  a little pricey though but well worth it.

Trader Joe’s Nourish Spa Conditioner: great for co-wash or use as a pre-poo. If you use as a pre-poo—-add your fav oils.  I add olive oil, coconut oil, castor oil, tea tree oil, vitamin e oil, jojoba oil, and honey.

ABY: Thanks for the tips Nikki. We’d love to stay in touch with you!

I would love to hear from any of you naturalistas or fashionistas! Hit me up at nvenus@pinkindigo.com.

IG: iamnikkivenus

YT: coming soon

Thanks for the great interview Nikki. You are selling those natural curls! I can’t wait to get to your length.

Fancy a Feature? 

If you’re on a natural journey yourself and would like to share your growth and tips please email artbecomesyou@yahoo.com.

NOTE: This feature is NOT bloggers or vloggers only. ANYone who is a naturalista is welcome to share. 

Have a great weekend! 

Love & Light

Lydie xx


Filed under: Afric'Art, Bea'You'Ty Tagged: aby naturalista, big chop, Natural hair, nikki venus, pink indigo, team natural, transition, twist out

ABY Naturalista: Freda Fro

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It’s Wednesday and it’s about time I caught up on one of my favourite ABY features, ABY Naturalista! Today Freda Fro shares her natural dos and don’ts.

Tell us about yourself

My name is Alfreda Ashiofu, but most people on the web know me as Freda Fro. I’m 20 yrs old, a health major, and I was born and raised in Nigeria but currently reside in Texas.

What’s your heritage (roots)? 

I’m 100% Nigerian, as far as I know tracing back to several of my “forefathers” lol!

 

What was your hair like before you went natural?

I was growing it out from my boarding school low cut, and it had been relaxed for a little over three years. My hair however would always come out looking texlaxed no matter the strength of the relaxer or how long it was left on for! However, it was about APL and full before I stopped relaxing.

Straightened natural hair without blowdry.

 

Why did you go natural?

By accident, I just stopped getting relaxers because of band and cologuard practice, then I cut my hair into a short bob. soon after I washed it after God knows how long!, and I saw curls….I relaxed at a young age, so “natural hair” was a stranger to me at that time.

 Did you go Big Chop or transition?

I unknowingly transitioned, and still big chopped anyways.

How long have you been natural?

2 years and 6 months

 

What’s your hair regimen or routine?

I co-wash my hair in 6-7 sections using Silkience Silky-Smooth Moisturizing Conditioner, I generally finger detangle, but when I’m in a hurry I use a wide tooth detangling comb. After washing, I dry my hair with a T-shirt, apply the same conditioner I use to co-wash then seal it in with my shea butter mix or crisco shortening. Once a week I deep condition my hair with my diy palm oil mix(recipe can be found on my blog). Every now and then I do test out products for review purposes and end up using a shampoo.

 

Do you protective style or go with the flow?

I normally create about 20 twists with my hair and wear it for a week or two, then afterwards wear it as a twistout.

Your favourite/go to hair styles?

Flat twist & puff, Cornrow out, twist outs, twists, curlformer sets, and wash n’ go’s.

Any tips or tricks you have to share with readers?

When I shampoo, I like to condition and detangle with a comb first, then apply the shampoo over the conditioner. I find that it saves time as opposed to pre-pooing, and it also prevents the shampoo from stripping the hair of too much moisture.

 

Have you ever been tempted to relax?

Nope! I hated the relaxed look on me.

Your favourite products or brands

Most of the stuff used on my hair a re DIY, but I do love the Silkience Silky-Smooth Conditioner, a few Pantene products and the Eden Body Works All Natural Deep Conditioner.

 

 

-Contact info (email, blog, twitter, instagram, youtube etc)

Blog                                www.fredafro.com

 

Facebook                        http://www.facebook.com/fredafro

 

Twitter                                 https://twitter.com/fredafro1

Instagram                          http://instagram.com/fredafro1

Email                                 fredafro@gmail.com or alfreda@fredafro.com

Thanks for sharing with us Alfreda :) 

I must say that palm oil DIY tip sounds tempting. I might get up to trying it out.

 

Did you love this feature? Interested in sharing your tips with us?

Please email artbecomesyou@yahoo.com for details.

 

Love & Light 

Lydie xx

 


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: Afro, curly hair, freda fro, Natural hair, naturalhair, naturalista

ABY Naturalista: Baroness Countess

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TGIF! I’m in the mood for a new Naturalista post.

Kicking off the weekend with this Fabulous Fro Queen, Lichelle.

Intro

My name is Lichelle, and I live in NYC. I’m a Natural hair and Beauty Blogger. I post Natural hair and Makeup tips on my IG and website pages, and I love inspiring women to go natural across the globe.

What’s your heritage?

I identify my heritage as being multi-cultural. We all came from the same source. :)

What was your hair like before you went natural?

My hair was relaxed and straight up until 2010

Why did you go natural?

When I went natural, I didn’t realize what it meant to “Go natural”. I cut my hair because it looked damaged and unhealthy. Little did I know that there was a whole natural hair community just waiting for me to embrace it, and for it to embrace me.

Bantu Knot Out Pictorial using “As I am” double butter cream

Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I Big chopped after a one week transition (which I hardly even call a transition Lol ) It was definitely random. But I loved it!

How long have you been natural?

I’ve been natural since May 2010. May 30th will mark my 4 year anniversary of bring natural.

 

What’s your regimen?

I keep my regimen simple. I shampoo or cleanse my hair with a clay mask once a week, and I co-wash whenever needed. I follow that with a deep conditioner, and seal my hair with coconut oil.

 

Do you protective style or just let your curls be?

I can say that I hardly ever protective style. I keep my hair free flowing the majority of my days, but I will be protective styling more often.

 

What are your favourite natural hairstyles?

Buns, updos, and wash and fro’s 

Updo

Twist out

Wrap Scarf Updo

Bantu Knots Out
Wig

 

Tips to share?

To achieve maximum volume, use an afro pick and pull at the roots. Also get your hair professionally trimmed at least once every 3-6 months to get rid of damaged or spit ends. Make sure to protect your ends with a satin bonnet at night to help retain length, and finger detangle your hair to reduce shedding and breakage from daily or weekly styling.

 

Have you ever been tempted to relax?

I have never been tempted to relax, thankfully :)

 

Your favourite products

Shea Moisture curl enhancing smoothie, Dark and Lovely’s “Hair butter”, Miss Jessie’s “Butter creme”, Carols’s Daughter “Healthy hair butter”, and Entwine Couture” Afrodisia Leave-in”

 

 Stay in touch!

     www.baronesscountess.com

    www.instagram.com/baronesscountess

    www.facebook.com/baronesscountess

    www.youtube.com/baronesscountess

 

 

Shea Moisture is my favourite range too. Love the hair Baroness! Thanks for sharing. I just realised am posting this on the 30th of May, so happy 4th Nappy Anniversary!

I’ve received a few mails asking for Relaxed hair divas to feature too! So if you’ve got relaxed hair that is well taken care of, please email artbecomesyou@yahoo.com to be considered for a feature.

Stay tuned.

Love & Light

Lydie xx


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: aby naturalista, Afro, baroness countess, curly hair, nappy hair, naturalista, shea moisture

ABY Style Tips: How To Wear High Heels Without Pain

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It’s Friday and I’m in the mood to answer a few more styling queries. Thanks for the emails, keep them coming guys ;)

Gladness wrote in:

Hi Lydie,
Happy hump day!!! You are amazingly beautiful and I love how you represent Cameroon; Africa for that matter!!! Anyways, I love your blog!!! I love your classy looks and suggestions!!! I just have love for everything you share on your blog!!!
I have a question: how do I get used to wearing high heels? I am not entirely a newbie on this, but I want to wear them often. My feet get really TIRED!!! Help!!!
Also, where do I get the white dress that was featured on the Williams show?
Thanks.
Love,
Your esteem follower Gladness!!!

 

Thanks for the email Gladness because I’ve actually been pondering this. It’s something that everyone who is passionate about. We celebs rocking high heels even to pick up the laundry and we wonder how do they do that? Surely that must hurt! Well it does.

And they are quite challenging to walk in too…

Even trained supermodels have it tough…

Meanwhile others make it look so enviably easy…

 

 

“I don’t know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot.”

                                                                               -Marilyn Monroe

“Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.”

                                                                               -Marilyn Monroe

“You put high heels on and you change.”

                                                  -Manolo Blahnik

“The higher the better. It’s more about an attitude. High heels empower women in a way.”

                                                                                                               -Christian Louboutin

 

All these are famous high heel quotes that fashionistas live by. Yes high heels are sexy as hell, but they may be sometimes unbearable to walk in for hours on end. Somewhere along the line, someone has managed to convince women (and drag queens) that high heels are the creme de la creme when it come to completing one’s look. They either made or broke your outfit. Louboutins are known for producing some of the most uncomfortably painful stilettos but that hasn’t stopped anyone from shelling out their savings to purchase the coveted heels.

So how do we wear heels without pain? Here are a few tips that will help you rock your favourite heels with a smile on your face.

 

1. Have A Spare Flat

We’ve all been there. Going out wearing our most fabulous heels but still having that look of confidence and assurance that only comes with the knowledge that you have spare flat shoes in your bag that you can switch to. As much as heels look good. They are bad for your feet if you wear them around the clock. It’s all about balance. Nobody will have a go at you if you switch into your flats once your feet starts aching. It’s better than going barefoot. And we’ve all seen girls going barefoot in the club which is a big no-no. My favourite heels are so not comfortable so I always carry flats. 

 

2. Thick Heels

The wider the heels the less painful they’ll be. And we wonder why our parents and grand parents loved these heels so much…Stilettos are the most painful heels as their tiny pointed heels cause your feet to wobble around. The good news is these thick heeled shoes are back in trend. Wedges are a great option if you hate the wobbly feel of stilettos. I love a great wedge plus are very comfy. So find a cute pair of thick heels of wedges you love and rock the hell out of them ;)

3. Kitten Heels

Kitten heels are becoming increasingly popular. Michelle Obama is such a great fan of them. She’s always on the go with meetings and functions and what better way to look fashionable and yet stay comfortable. The most trendy kitten heels to date have been the Valentino Rockstud Heels. Kitten heels are  is a short, slender heel, usually from 3.5 centimeters (1.5 inches) to 4.75 centimeters (1.75 inches) high.

 

Rihanna’s favourite heels are kitten heels which is quite understandable as she’s on heels 24/7. These Tom Ford Chain Strap Sandals are a celeb favourite.

4. Foot Pads

Drugstore products that market themselves for high heels are also worth giving a try. They are usually oval-shaped pads that go under the ball of the foot, usually made from a silicone gel. Gel insoles, foot pads or heel pads have become a common solution to painful feet. Worth keeping around if you can’t be bothered to carry flats. They combat soreness and friction which usually causes blisters and painful heels. Foot pads made out of silicone, it will hold your foot more steady in the shoe so your feet aren’t sliding forward as much. Padded shoes from renowned brands such as Clarks are also worth a go. Also Debenhams ‘Good For The Sole’ collection might be a great idea.

 

 

5. Say No To Thin Soles

So when it comes to heels and soles, thickness matters. Thin soles will easily wear your feet out. This rule also applies to flats. I’ve had a pair of flats once whose soles were dead thin. Because they were flats I wore them everywhere. Never before have my feet been so sore! If you treasure your feet, opt for platform soles instead. they offer more comfort and more soothing to the soles of the feet. 

These heels just scream pain!

 

Try platform pumps like Rachel of Pink Peonies

Or stilettos with a concealed platform

 

6. Barely There Heels

As cute and as popular as they are, barely there heels can be quite uncomfortable as they end up feeling too tight and constricting around the ankle. They hold on to your feet by a single strap so it’s no magic that a lot of pressure of will be exerted around the area and it will feel sore. Opt for fuller coverage and heels that have bigger and more secure straps. 

 

Try these thicker and evenly placed straps.

 

7. Stretch Your Feet

Give your feet a good stretch at the end of a log day. Whether you are wearing heels or not. Heels compress our feet and toes for long hours on end so that when we take them off it takes a while for the feet to feel ‘normal’ again. Give your toes and feet a good massage, relax your feet muscles and keep the blood flowing. The last thing you want to do is slip your tired feet into a pair of heels. Many of us forget to do this essential and healthy routine. Read this article on PopSugar on how to relax tight feet and muscles.

 

 

8. Attend ‘Shoes Are Optional’ Parties

Hahaha. Just for laughs. But don’t they sound hella fun? It would be just cool if for once everyone looked casual, chic and shoeless at a party.

And that’s about it. How do you get around painful heels? What are your little tips to coping with heels. Please share. Many people need these.

At the end of the day, my go to option just carrying an extra pair of flats. There are some shoes that I just can’t stay away from. Especially the yummy barely there single strap sandals ;) 

They say fashion is pain after all. Do you bother with any of these or just brace the pain?

Let us know.

Rate, comment, like and share!

Enjoy your weekend.

Love & Light 

Lydie xx


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: fashion, fashion 101, high heels, high heels without pain, style 101

ABY Mail Query: Lipsticks For Darker Skin Tones & Fuller Lips

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Hey ABYers, I’m so grateful for your input and interest in my blog! Your mails inspire me to come up with new posts and I’m so happy that you feel confident enough to share your queries with me. Thanks a bunch. I received another Beauty query from Noel.

Noel wrote in:

Hi ABY.
I am having a little lipstick problem, please can you post some stuff on the right lipstick shade for dark skin, for ladies with bigger lips. sometimes when people recommend lipstick shades for my skin tone, the lipstick wouldnt look good on the size of my lips and its killing me. my prom is fast approaching and i dont know what to do. I really love your blogs and i love your taste in fashion, really inspiring. My skin tone is “dark with cool undertones” as shown in this website http://superselected.com/dressing-for-your-skintone-part-1-reds/ The size of my lips are the same with the girl right in the middle (medium with warm undertones) in reddish orange lip stick.
Thanks
For references I’ve attached the skin tine chart that Noel linked back to. Courtesy of SuperSelected.com

First off if you have full lips, the heavens have smiled on you! That is one coveted feature that hundreds of thousands of women are now going under the needle to achieve.If you rock the right colours for your skin tone especially with fuller lips, you will have fantastic results.

At the end of the day, lipsticks and colours are relative. These guidelines are very general and will work for most people but it’s always good to try colours that you think are out of your ‘Skin Tone Zone’, I promise you will be surprised ;)

1. Dark – If your skin is dark and rich, try these shades:

Deep red
Fuchsia
Magenta
Chocolate brown

-Golden beige colours and chocolate brown nudes look great on dark skin with cool undertones. The good thing about full lips is they only need a bit of moisture or shine to stand out. Flesh coloured tones in dark brown will work well for you. Wet n Wild Mochalicious, Ravin’ Raisin, Spiked with rum, Sugar plum fairy, cinnamon spice are all great examples. Also L’Oreal colour riche Captivating Copper, Plum Twist, Milla’s Plum are great options.

 

Useful Tip: Use a pencil liner which a shade or two darker than your lipstick to line your lips. Remember to blend!

 Geraldine of Geraldine The Great is one of my favourite natural bloggers. She’s dark skin toned and her lips are full so her styel tips will come in handy. She is fond of dark pink nude colours which are kept in place with a dark liner.

NYX Lip Plumper in Kim below

Naturally Erratic shows us that deep chocolate brown hues love full lips!

Natalie of Discoveries of Self tried on this Tom Ford Deep Mink Lipstick. It’s a pinky nude colour and I think it’s super gorge!

NYX Deep Bronze Lip Gloss

Dare to wear bright colours in violet, purple or neon. I love how Geraldine wears it!

OCC Lip Tar in Roller Girl shade on Natalie below.

Instagram Photo

Classic red colours are also a great way to showcase your envious lips. Guaranteed winner. 

Beauty By Lee is wearing Mac Ruby Woo below.

Natalie is wearing Lime Crime Makeup Red Velvet Velvetine lipstick below.

Instagram Photo

Bright pink and fuchsia tones are your friends. Go for them!

This gorgeous MUA even tried gothic makeup for size. Are you loving the black lips?

Like I’ve said, it’s all about trying new colour. Natalie looks great in this lippy called DGAF by Melt Cosmetics, no?

Eugena Washington is dark skinned girl with a full pout. She keeps her makeup minimal and her favourite colours are chocolate brown and dark brown colours. Gorgeous!

 

Other colours such as magenta, deep red, pink or fuchsia will look great on dark skin. Nyasha Matonhodze is a dark beauty with full lips and she looks great in all these shades.

 

Supermodel, Ajak Deng’s skin is rich and dark and she has the luscious lips ever. She’s tried on tonnes of lip colours and they look fantastic on her!

 

 

2. For medium-toned women, look into these lipstick colours:

Red
Medium to deep pink
Bronze
Magenta

Jill Marie Jones is one gorgeous lady will full lips. And she’s working just the right shades for skin tone. Notice how she uses a liner most times.

 

Kerry Washington has a medium skin tone with full lips. Her makeup game is top notch. From blush tones, to bright reds to pink she wears it well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Light: If your skin falls into the lighter range of African American skin tones, these colours will look good on you:

Pale to deep pink
Peach
Taupe
Red

Gina Torres is light skinned so peach, pale pink and red will be her go to colours.

Here’s a list of other celebrities and bloggers with full lips and sexy pouts that you can follow and get makeup inspiration from. 

J’Adore Fashion

 

Beautiful Naturelle

Please help me ID this princess…

Edna Ferreira

Aisha Tyler

Keke Palmer

Meagan Good

Daniela Braga

 

Angelina Jolie

Naomi Campbell

Hope these helped!

Have you got full rich lips? How do you work it? Share your tips please ;)

And share this post!

For more queries, email artbecomesyou@yahoo.com

Thanks to BihYouty for helping out with this post ;)

Love & light

Lydie xx


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: beauty, daniela braga, dark skin, edna ferreira, eugena washington, full lip, gina torres, kerry washington, makeup, naomi campbell, nyasha

ABY Mail Query: Protective Weave & Extension Hairstyles For Natural hair

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Happy Thursday everyone! Hope things have been good :) I’m finishing off my mail queries and this last one (for now) is about natural hair styles. 

Christie wondered:

‘Hi,Love your blog! I didn’t know you had natural hair. How do you wear a weave with natural hair. I have trouble using weaves because I cannot leave my natural hair out but I need to protective style my hair. What are great protective styling ideas Please. Thank you. ‘

1. Crochet Braids

A crochet needle is used to weave synthetic, hair into your natural hair that has been French braided or braided into corn rows. Crochet braids, despite the name, are actually closer to sew in weaves than actual braids.Crochet braids use crochet needles (latch hooks) to loop bulk pieces of hair extension onto cornrows. Asherah of For The Love of My Fro wearing crochet braids using Marley Hair below:

 

Here’s a video of how she achieved it.

 

Marley hair seems to give a lot of volume. Another crochet braid execution using marley hair. If you love loads of volume, try this!

If you want to keep the curls simple use typical synthetic hair like Kanekalon. Read this step by step crochet braiding tutorial if you can’t watch the video  above.

 

2. Invisible Part

With the invisible part, you don’t have to worry about leaving hair out. It’s a great and innovative way to protective style your hair using human hair extensions. My only worry about the invisible part is sometimes it looks very unnatural. So make sure it’s done properly so you don’t end up with and unnatural bald-looking area atop of your head.

Tiarra Monet’s video tutorial for the invisible part is the best I’ve seen. Watch below:

3. Fringe

A fringe is a great way to avoid dealing with blending natural and straight hair textures as your hair will all be neatly braided and tucked away under a cute little fringe. I love Nifesimi of Skinny Hipster‘s short do with a fringe. It’s her go to hairstyle when she’s not wearing her ‘fro out and she looks gorgeous in both ;) 

 

You can alter lengths and textures as desired.

 

4. Lace Closure

Lace closures have becomes increasingly popular amongst weave lovers. With the help of Beauty gurus coming up with new and seamless ways to install closures, they are most girls’ go to option for protective styling without worrying about exposing your real hair. Lace closures are one of my favourite protective styles as I own a few myself ;)

Love Tiarra’s lace closure installation video.

 

A lot of sew ins now feature multiple partings so you can have more versatility with styling.

 

6. Wig

Wearing a wig is an easy way to try different hairstyles and textures whilst still looking after your natural hair. Usually with weaves and braids you don’t get the chance to wash, moisturize and take care of your own real hair as regularly as you’d want to. With a wig, you get to take it off at the end of the day and wash or moisturize your hair as needed. The only minus with wigs is, make sure they are securely strapped on or clipped. Peakmill has the cutest and fun videos on YouTube. You can either go for just a normal wig or a lace front wig. Here is one of her wig installations.

7. Keratin Treatment

If you absolutely have to have bone straight hair, you can try a keratin treatment. I’ve seen a lot of naturals doing it. A typical keratin treatment is the Brazilian Blowout. It is achieved by having the keratin-base product applied to your hair and then your hair is blow-dried and flat ironed and you avoid washing it for 3 days. The results for these types of treatments are effective and the therapy does not break your hair bonds permanently so they do return over time, typically 3-4 months. It typically costs about £80 – £150 to get it done. The good news, it keeps your hair straight for up to 3 months or 4 depending on how you care for it. The bad? I am not sure the extend of the damage of keratin treatment but the treatment contains formaldehyde, the same type of carcinogen found in cigarettes and can be dangerous if inhaled. Also a lot of heat is used and we all know how damaging heat can be to natural hair. This treatment has had a mixed review so far  as many naturalistas think that what is point of keeping your natural hair if you are going to have it straightened semi-permanently? However a lot of naturalistas swear by this so if you don’t mind using heat on your hair now and then, it’s worth a try. Read different reviews here, here and here.

8. Natural Textured Hair Extensions

Using extensions that are curly will blend in more easily with your natural hair than straight or wavy weaves. That way you can easily leave your own natural hair out without worrying about blending. Heat Free Hair is meant to have great textured weaves for all hair types. Also try Indique Hair.

 

9. Box Braids, Tree Braids, Ghana Braids

 Not the most time-saving but braids are a great way to protective style without leaving your hair out. There’s so many types to try; micro braids, box braids, marley twists, yarn braids, ghana braids etc. Plus there’s tonnes of different ways to style them!

10. Clip in Ponytail

Reimagine your natural bun with a cute clip in ponytail. Remember to keep the textures in sync! I love Peakmill’s natural looking high bun in this tutorial. I’m so tempted to try it.

 

If you have been moved by none of these ;( why not have a look at more ways to play around with natural styles and keep it interesting. I hope I’ve been able to help ;)

Sorry if I take a little longer with hair queries as they involve a lot of pictures and tutorials. But I’ll try to respond on time. Hope this helped. If you have other ways in which you wear your natural hair in protective styles. please share!

Meanwhile, stay blessed.

Love & Light

Lydie xx


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: lace front, natural hair styles, protective styles, weave styles, weaves

13 Best Ways to Apply Makeup Quickly

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Whether you’re a working woman, a student or housewife, makeup is bound to be a part of your morning routine. However, the whole routine can become monotonous and time-consuming.  If this is the case for you, here’s some time-saving tips that will help you!

 

Tip 1:

You need to get rid of stuff that you no longer need. Most women collect a lot of stuff, which are rarely used. Of course, they add to the total time spent on makeup. So, the first time saving tip is that you should throw away such makeup products so you avoid sifting through a load of products. Keep only a few items. It’s difficult but essential to speed up makeup application.

 

Tip 2:

You can use tinted moisturizer, and avoid using bronzer or blush.  If you combine it with a sunscreen, the effects will be great. In simple words, you will skip several steps for getting amazing skin.

 

Tip 3:

Over tweezing is known to harm your skin. So, it is better if you stop it altogether. This will save you several precious hours. In addition, you’ll get a natural appearance within a few minutes.

 

Tip 4:

False Eyelashes are very trendy. But they require a lot of time and effort.  Anyway, they are not appropriate for daily wear. Save them for a party or any other special occasion. Remember that your natural eyelashes always look beautiful without these falsies. All you need is a pop of mascara et voilà!

 

Tip 5:

Get an Eyelash Curler:

Eyelash curler only takes a few seconds to give you beautiful eyes.  Your beautiful eyes will also look healthy and awake. After using eyelash curler, there is no need to apply any other makeup.

 

Tip 6:

Avoid using skin toner. The only exception would be in case of any skin condition. In fact, you don’t need to use a skin toner every single day. So, there is no need to use a skin toner on your face.   

 

Tip 7:

 A basic makeup routine will save you a lot of time. More complicated makeup should be done only on some special occasions.  Many women adopt a heavy makeup regime that tends to be time-consuming. In our opinion, it wastes time and results in an unnatural appearance.  Stick to simple and fresh makeup for an everyday youthful look.

 

Tip 8:

Buy long lasting and authentic makeup products. This will eliminate the need for frequent retouches throughout the day. It should be noted that manufacturer’s claim could be far from reality. So, you need to be careful and alway check for reviews on products you plan on buying. 

 

Tip 9:

Get products that are easier to use. For example, some women will find liquid eyeliner difficult to use. They often make mistakes whenever they use them. If you’re also having difficulty in using any particular product, its better of you to skip them or find an easier substitute.

 

Tip 10:

Prefer neutral colors, which will save time on coordinating them.  

Tip 11:

If you’re using Human Hair Extensions, it will also save a lot of time as you don’t have to groom your natural hair. A quick brush and you’re ready to go.

 

 

Tip 12:

If you’re in hurry, use a head band or other cool accessories on your hair. 

 

Tip 13:

Consult a Makeup Artist DC to get quick results.

 

 

 

 


Filed under: Bea'You'Ty Tagged: beauty, hair extensions, makeup artist, mua, quick makeup yips

Had To Share: Nubian Skin To Unveil Nude Underwear Perfect For Darker Skin Tones

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How many of us call the blush pink or creamy beige shade that most Louboutin Pigalle heels come in, nude pumps? I’m guilty as charged. I also call my light beige coloured briefs nude. But as a black girl that light blush and cream shade is far my true shade of nude. Yeah nude is in. It has been in for a while now but only so many brands have bothered to research and create a perfect nude for the diversity of skin colours that exist not only in the white community but also in the black community.

Innovative lingerie brand, Nubian Skin, aims to ‘empower’ every woman by launching a new underwear collection for darker skin tones. 

The lack of nude-coloured options in the lingerie market has inspired London-based label Nubian Skin to create a range of underwear for women of colour. So if you’ve struggled in the past to find underclothing that matches your skin tone, this might be the collection for you.

This has to be the best news I’ve heard in a while. I’ve always wanted to find my ‘true nude’. And these girls are showing me that I can finally get that. The line will include nude bras, knickers and hosiery in both plain and lacy styles, and in a wide variety of sizes and shades to suit all shapes and skin tones. The debut collection will come in sizes from 30B to 36E, but has plans of expanding to plus-sizes in the near future.

“A nude bra, skin-tone tights / pantyhose – basics of every woman’s wardrobe.  In theory…It’s the grand debate, what do I wear under a white or sheer blouse? What colour hosiery will go with these amazing shoes? Black just isn’t going to work.  The simple answer is nude.  But my nude isn’t the nude I see in shops.  Despite the reality that women of colour have the same needs as all women when it comes to lingerie and hosiery (and spend the same of their hard-earned money), the industry simply doesn’t cater to us.  So, I thought, it’s time to rethink the definition of nude.  Thus, Nubian Skin was born.

It’s an uphill battle, but every revolution starts somewhere.  Looking at the makeup industry, it took Eunice W. Johnson to create Fashion Fair Cosmetics in 1973 for black women to really have an adequate choice in finding makeup colours to suit them.  In the 1990s and 2000s, mainstream brands began to realise the value of providing to women of colour, and despite the billions we spend on make up each year, there are still brands that have chosen not to provide an offering for us…”

Nude hosiery and lingerie for women of colour. Yasssssss! Nude undergarments are definitely a must have for every closet and Nubian Skin are making it possible for women of colour to be able to enjoy that ‘luxury’ of wearing underwear that blends with your skin tone. No more blush pinks, beige creams and all the other nudes which are certainly not meant for me.

Their online store launches in 3 weeks. Will you be grabbing a few sets?

I certainly will.

Based on the feedback and press Nubian Skin has been getting, expect stock to sell out as soon as they launch.

Repost & Share with a sister ;)

xo

Lydie


Filed under: Afric'Art, Bea'You'Ty, Daily 'Art'tractions Tagged: 25 Years of Magnum Ice cream, bra, briefs, hoisery, lingery, mac, nubian, nubian skin, nude
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