5 Easy Hairstyles You Can Do with Your Hair!

By Jennifer Obiuwevbi

  

Ever had those moments where you just don’t know what to do with your natural hair? Most times the only thing you can think of doing is giving it a relaxed treatment and heading for a good old High Bun. Well that snot all you can do with your hair, braids or even your weave.

There are so many hairstyles littered on YouTube that can help your style your natural hair making it look innovative  fresh and uniquely yours. With this in mind are you willing to try seem of these amazing hair do’s with me? Here are 5 hairstyles from bloggers on YouTube to keep you looking good even when you don’t have a weave on.

1. The French Braid Fringe

When I found this hairdo on Youtube I immediately knew what I was going t have on next week. It’s fun, new and different for the regular girl who is used to doing the same hairstyles. Here Beauty & Style blogger Shirley Eniang of Meek-n-Mild is displaying a great way to do a French Braid Fringe. The hairdo is simple enough that it doesn’t look too stressful to achieve and so unique that it looks like you had it done at a salon.
Check out her tutorial below on how you too can get the French braid fringe hairstyle.

2. Milk Maid Braid

We may not have them here… but we can definitely imitate their hairstyles. The milk braid is perfect for a day at the beach, an intimate dinner or just a relaxed day at home. With this hair do you might need a bit more materials compared to the French braid fringe, but the end result makes it worth the hassle. Here Shirley is back with a great version where she has incorporated Xpressions artificial hair extensions to make the braid.
Click play to learn how to achieve this ‘do.

3. Bantu Knots (With straightened or relaxed hair)

Confession? I tried this last week and I absolutely loved it. It was different from my usual side or centre part weave and a fresh look. The hairstyle takes little or nothing to do, all you need is a mirror, some bobby pins and maybe a curling pudding (optional). The tutorial below is from www.luvnaturals.com where they show you just how easy it is to do.

4. The Hypnotic Roll

I especially loved this hairstyle because if you feel like you still want to do a high bun, it doesn’t mean you cant have fun with it. This Hypnotic Roll hairstyle looks really vintage and we all know vintage never goes out of style. Here natural hair blogger Brittany from Kysmyhair.com will show us how we can style this up do.

TIP: Instead of using the Marley hair used in the tutorial video, you can also make use of the Xpressions extensions Shirley used in her Milkmaid Braid tutorial. It would give you a varied outcome but you can still play around with it to give it your signature.
5. Twisted Braid Up Do

For those gals who want a mix between braids, twists and the up do…here you go. This retro hairstyle is great when you’re protecting your hair from harsh weather or otherwise. Here Brittany is showing us this hairstyle and just a quick tip; still keep your Xpressions extensions because you will definitely need it here. Its really quick and little or no product was used. Click play to find out more.

There you have it, 5 easy enough hairstyles that could get your hair looking fabulous. Tried any before, be sure to say so in your comments and share any useful tips you might have on spicing up our natural hair. Enjoy!

6 Factors that Could be Stunting Your Hair Growth

One of the many reasons why African women have stunted hair growth could be due to a number of reasons that could range from focusing on the wrong aspect of hair care to just doing it wrong.

There are a lot of hair problems and different solutions to them, but in all the major thing you need to understand is hair growth takes time.

But while we wait, check these things off your list to see if they’re what’s keeping you from waist length hair.

You’re applying too much heat to the hair when styling: 
Blow drying, curling, straightening…all the heat applied to hair can cause damage to hair growth. The presence of chemicals mixed with heat in your hair dries out the water and removes moisture from the hair strands. This makes it break easily.

To avoid this, reduce the frequency of heat application to your hair. In addition always get regular protein deep treatment conditioners to help fight damage after applying heat.

You’re over processing your hair or over handling:
With the large number of hair care products that exist, each promising something better than the last I know it’s very easy to go product crazy. The thing is when you burden your hair with treatment after treatment it will eventually start to show because each product has its process of working. These could also have different chemicals that damage your hair when reacting with others, like Parabens i.e Propyl, Methyl, Butyl, or Ethyl. When you give your hair too much attention it could loose its health leading to hair loss.

A quick solution is to always research your hair type and confirm chemicals that are good for your hair. Keep in mind that you could have a mixture of different types of hair (curly & wavy etc). Also schedule your hair appointments so you can give your hair time to rest up and grow naturally.

You’re doing the wrong hairstyles: 
If you haven’t been paying attention, now is the time to do so! Not all hairstyles are good for your hair. For example if you regularly make hairstyles that require a lot of bonding glue and you remove them without caution you are damaging the roots of the hair. The best option for removal of such is always to apply hair oil to the glued area to soften it up. This allows for easy removal. Not doing this could lead to permanent hair loss (traction alopecia) around the temple and the ears.

Take caution to make hairstyles that do not put too much stress on the hair follicles. Weaves and extensions offer hairstyle options, but remove them every six to eight weeks to give your hair a break.

You might be using a quack hairstylist:
Not everyone is a trained hair care specialist. Just because they own a salon and have the equipment does not make them the right professionals to handle your hair. Be sure to search for a specialist that that knows what he or she is doing and can do it well. Also keep to one or at most two hair stylists. This ensures that the person is accustomed to your hair and all its needs.

Your hair  is being pulled too tight:
Pulling your hair too tight could result in permanent hair loss. It could also end with acne or sores to the scalp. On average, women loose about 100 strands of hair a day. Let’s not increase those figures okay?

Instead of getting on the ‘bald eagle’ train, tell your hair stylist not to pull too hard while weaving or sewing. The loosening feeling you get later is not relief but your hair strands getting uprooted from your scalp from being wound too tight. Take this initiative and protect your hair from follicle damage so your hair could have the opportunity to grow to its full potential.

You have dirty hair:
The scalp is the base and beginning of hair growth, if you do not have that under control then you do not have a good foundation for hair growth. Imagine if you went 2 weeks without washing your face? You get the picture?
Wash your hair regularly and treat it to a good cleansing when you can; at least once every 7-10 days.

Photo Credit: kootation.com | madamenoire.com |  juicymagonline

Style Inspiration: What to Wear to Fashion Shows

I’ve got some great options for you to flaunt your fabulous curves! But first some quick curvy girl style tips:
1. Fit is key, don’t drown yourself in fabric.
2. Cinch your waist with chic belts, wrap belts work miracles to give you a sexy hourglass silhouette.
3. Always work your curves with confidence!
I call this look “Casual Summertime Chic”. This yellow Altuzarra blazer is perfect for the season paired with a loose white tank and jeans (if you need more options for colorful blazers, try Eloquii).

Add some fun accessories like this BCBG statement necklace, a grey Alexander Wang clutch and these fashion forward WM colorblock platform sandals (a steal at $72!) Nail polish in a pretty coral or pink hue are the icing on the cake for this summery-citrus outfit.

More Vince…

Every gal knows the power of an LBD. This one by Jessica Simpson has flattering ruching to slim your silhouette and the Linne Pelle corset belt highlights your sexy waistline.

Add on a D&G animal print clutch and nude Jimmy Choos, along with a polished purple cuff and eye catching earrings. A red lip and you’re good to go!

More Vince Camuto…

In my opinion, no one fills out a wrap dress better than a woman with curves! This DVF frock will be your year round staple, since it works fabulously for so many different occasions and can be dressed up or down.

These Carvela Gable heels are a perfect compliment for this dress, along with a Dorothy Perkins envelope clutch and Tom Ford cat eye sunnies. I love these TopShop earrings and this Elizabeth & James cocktail ring. A pretty pink pout later and you’re set!
Ladies, this DVF dress is in a size 12 but I have included a great variety of 28 (!) dresses below with an awesome range of sizes and fab prices. Take your pick!

More IGIGI…

More Diane von Furstenberg…

I hope these looks inspire you! 

Nollywood Star Ini Edo to Unveil her Shoe Line “Ini Edo Collection”

You can follow us @Ms_Crantz
Source: africanmoviesnews.com Ini Edo is out to give everyone a chance to experience a bit of her style with her shoe line “Ini Edo Collection”, which she will be presenting at the Dallas international fashion show on Friday 31st August 2012 according to Trendy Africa.




Here’s what was stated on the Ini Edo Collection Official Website
“Welcome to the official website of Ini Edo Collection; the Fashion Brand of the iconic Nollywood Actress, Ini Edo.
We are in the business of designing and merchandising genuine leather shoes;  leather and fashion handbags; clothing and other fashion accessories.
In addition to the Ini Edo Collection brand; we also feature a Boutique Line made up of carefully selected contemporary fashion merchandise from other designers.
Our contemporary styling are must have for that fashionista that wants to turn heads and stop traffic with her red carpet look. We take pride in our merchandise because they are made of the finest materials to American specifications. What makes us stands out is our ability to offer affordable products without cutting corners or compromising on quality or craftsmanship.”

So guys! what do you think? legs crossed right? ;)

Style Inspiration: What To Wear To An Amusement Park

Okay guys, I know that you’re tired of Kim Kardashian. I want her to go have a seat–indefinitely, too. But, there is one thing that we have to give this woman, she gives good face. Even at an amusement park. And let’s have a round of applause for Mr. West. I’m so sure that he’s dressing her. She’s much more sophisticated looking. Wouldn’t you say?
But like I was saying, Kimmie is showing is that there are ways to look good, even when you’re on a roller coaster, screaming your lungs out. A few helpful hints, though: A crossbody bag, nothing that prevents you from sitting with your legs slightly open, and comfy shoes. Not necessarily sneakers, but something that can handle all the walking. An outfit like this:


Easy, breezy but still stylish and fun.
Below are more ideas that will have you looking cute for the scream cam. Shop ’til your heart’s content:

More Forever 21…

But seriously, doesn’t Kim look so much better now the ‘Ye is styling her? He clearly needs a Barbie.
Stay Stylish!

Style Inspiration: 3 Ways to Wear Orange Platform Heels

This is a great summertime chic look that you can wear for drinks with friends or to rooftop party. This grey Emporio Armani jumpsuit is the perfect neutral canvas to allow the coral heel to pop.

I love this colorful printed clutch by Lileauxashby (purchase here). It ties the jumpsuit and heel together perfectly and adds wow factor to the entire look. Accessorize with this artsy Jennifer Elizabeth Cuff and fun Lewis Henry Nicholas earrings. I especially love these clear Illesteva Leonard 2 sunglasses. A bright blue nail polish completes the look:

More Emporio Armani…

This second look is for my Dressed Down Divas! These platforms look amazing paired with cuffed boyfriend jeans and a sleeveless white button down. The icing on the cake is this utterly fab 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Satchel, a true investment piece.

Throw on a sleek gold Swatch watch, fun earrings and a chic Ariel Gordon initial necklace. This cool fedora tops it off! And a diva never leaves the house without her lipgloss. Try a sexy berry or nude tint. Wear this look to a weekend brunch.

More Ariel Gordon…

What’s Summer without a pretty floral dress? This one by Thakoon is a perfect compliment to the coral hued heels. A neutral ASOS clutch holds all your essentials and is a steal at $33!

Layered delicate gold necklaces always look amazing and go with everything. A turquoise Michael Kors ring and chic mini hoops complete the look. A nude lip and you’re set for everything from dinner to an event!

More Kate Spade…

There you have it Denise! Three fab ways to rock you new Olcay Gulsen heels!