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The age old question: Blonde or brunette? And more specifically, blonde Beyonce or brunette Beyonce?

H&M created quite the little case study when they released two versions of its ad for the new Beyonce as Mrs. Carter for H&M collection. Both feature Mrs. Carter but in one she is blonde and in the other brunette. AceMetrix Live conducted a survey to see which ad performed better, and which version of Beyonce was more recognizable. Blonde scored significantly higher on both counts. Sixteen percent of viewers were able to positively identify Beyonce as a blonde, compared with just seven percent when she was a brunette. 

Now we beg the question, who exactly was AceMetrix polling that only seven percent of subjects surveyed could identify the Queen? And question number two (and what we really want to know), what does the NaturallyCurly World have to say on the subject? We polled our Facebook and Instagram fans and it’s no surprise that the feedback was fiercely in favor of her natural, dark hair color. Sixty percent of you prefer her dark hair, with several of you pointing out her striking resemblance to Solange.

Years of interviews and community feedback tells us that the number one reason that women love their curls is the versatility, we love our options! Whether it’s blonde, curly, short, straight, dark or long – we tend to agree that options are the best policy. So 25 percent of you said you like Bey either way. Watch the videos and weigh in, let us know what you think.

We’ve all fallen victim to a moment of curl envy, no matter how happy we are with our curls, coils and waves. Pinterest and Instagram will do that to you! So when I first heard about Strawllers my interest was piqued – I can have tighter, pretty ringlets without a curling iron? I’m afraid of curling irons (ever since this incident) so I had to give Strawllers a try.

Curly Hair Makeover

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Before

My natural hair has a Type 2B wave in the front and S-shaped Type 2C waves in the back. You can see it being styled in this video.

I was thrilled to have textured hair specialist, Owner and Creative Director of Hair Love Art, Aeleise Mitchell work her magic on my hair at America’s Beauty Show in Chicago.

After

You can get curls from straw-sized ringlets to big beachy waves with Strawllers (Aeleise calls them Kardashian curls) but because my hair was wavy to begin with, I wanted to see a drastic difference.

When I was younger I had a tighter curl pattern and thicker hair, I’ve always wondered what I would look like now if it had stayed that way. I loved the results and even felt a shift in my energy when my curl pattern changed.

Before You Start

To begin the process, Aeleise started by detangling my hair. My hair was extra tangled because I had flown on a plane the day before, and my hair always gets dry and tangled when I fly!

Typically you would start with soaking wet hair, but because we were at the show, Aeleise simply sprayed each section with a water bottle to wet it.

Section the Hair

Then Aeleise used duckbill clips to section my hair into 3-4 sections. This will make your hair much easier to work with.

Tip: 

When sectioning the hair, part it diagonally so that the curls aren’t in obvious layers. This creates a natural look.

Styling Product

Take a small, 1-inch section of hair and coat it with two pumps of the Foam Wrap and Set Lotion. Strawllers makes both a Foam and a Spray Gel, but the Spray Gel would have been a bit heavy for my hairtype, and would have felt crunchy. The Foam is a lighter option and better for my hair.

Wrap and Roll

When wrapping your hair around the Strawller, be sure to start the Strawller right at the end, tucking the end of your curl under as you roll. Aeleise said mine was the longest hair she’s done with Strawllers, so we used the 8″ ones for my hair.

Clip It

Roll the Strawller all the way up to the root and secure it with a hair clip or pin. You can use a roller clip, a duckbill clip, or even a bobby pin. I was worried there would be a crease where the bobby pin was placed, but I checked afterwards and there were no creases.

Tip:

For loose, beachy waves roll the Strawller halfway up the section.

Mix and Match

To avoid the uniform look of a roller set, use two different sized Strawllers for a naturally curly look. Plus it’s more interesting that way. We used the orange, finger-sized Strawllers as well as the blue, Sharpie-sized ones for variety.

Keep Rolling

It took about 25-30 minutes to wrap my whole head of curls. This will probably vary based on the length and thickness of your hair.

All Wrapped Up

Once you’ve wrapped your entire head, you could just let your hair air dry while you do other things around the house. There are little holes in the Strawllers that allow air to circulate and hair to dry faster.

But if you have high porosity hair, or your hair generally takes a long time to dry then you probably will want to use a dryer.

Drying

I sat under a dryer hood for about 20 minutes. It typically takes 15-30 minutes for the hair to dry completely.

At home you could use a diffuser. Don’t hold the diffuser too close to the curls, and be sure to point it down the curl shaft.

Remove the Strawllers

Be very careful when taking the Strawllers out, so as not to disturb the curl.

Tip:

Turn them clockwise to unroll them.

Separate the Curls

This will leave you with very perfect ringlets – too perfect. You’ll want to pull these ringlets apart with your fingers to create a natural looking curl. Divide each ringlet into 3-4 separate curls using your fingers.

Shake Them Up

Finally, shake up the curls with your fingers right at the roots to loosen them up. Remember, the key is to look natural, not perfect.

Finishing Product

Once your curls look just right, spray a finishing product for hold. We used a light hairspray on my Type 2 hair, but if you have a thicker hair texture then use the Shine Spray to finish.

Right after this photo was taken I went out into the rain and it took 20 minutes to catch a cab. I was worried that my new curls would frizz and loose definition but I found that they just grew, and then I loved them even more!

2nd, 3rd, 4th Day Hair

The Strawller set was done on my second-day curls, and I wore them from Chicago back to Austin and to work the next day for everyone at the NaturallyCurly offices to coo over. You can always depend on them for a good curly reaction!

When I got back I hit the ground running as SXSW had just begun. I wore my curls to work, then out to cover SXSW, and on to the concerts at night! They held up surprisingly well! When my roots started to look less than fresh I did a quick headband braid at the crown and they lasted another day.

Thank you to Aeleise and Strawllers for helping me achieve the drastic curl makeover I was looking for. Not only did my curl pattern change, but my hair looked about nine inches shorter, talk about shrinkage! I love my waves, but it was so much fun taking a quick vacation from them too.

We had the privilege of connecting with singer songwriter Ava Raiin in Austin, home to SXSW and NaturallyCurly.com offices! During her career Ava has gone natural, toured with Chrisette Michele, concurred SXSW and is currently touring with Solange – we can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next!

If you want to know how she does it all, and what her curly routine and must have products are, keep reading!

Ava Raiin's Real Texture Talk

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NaturallyCurly: So you just got back from performing with Solange at SXSW, how was your South By experience?

Ava Raiin: Amazing! It was so much fun but a bit overwhelming; there’s so much to do! There’s definitely something for everyone. We played 4 shows , met some really cool people. Good times. My family also lives in Austin so having them at the shows and spending time with them was huge a bonus. 

 

Pictured with NaturallyCurly Editor, Cristina

NC: How is your onstage persona different from your offstage?

Ava: Offstage I’m a bit more introverted so I love that I can let loose on stage.

NC: Does your hair contribute to your onstage persona?

Ava: It does! My Afro is growing at a crazy pace and I have a lot of fun swinging it around on stage. It’s very liberating.

NC: Do you feel industry pressure to wear your hair relaxed?

 Ava: No, Not at all.

Maybe a few years ago but today natural hair is pretty popular and more “acceptable.”

NC: Have you always rocked your hair natural? 

Ava: Not always.

I got my first relaxer at age 9 and continued until about 5 years ago when I decided to go natural. I had no idea what I was doing so in my transition I would alternate between extensions and heat press / blow outs which ultimately caused damage. It was almost as if I was chemical relaxing my hair all over again! Last December I decided to big chop and give my hair some TLC. I’m really enjoying the journey.

NC: If you were relaxed during your singing career, have you gotten different reactions after going natural?

Ava: Yes. I was actually relaxed for the first couple of years of my career and then went to a press / extensions which was similar to my relaxed style.

I find that my hair gets more attention in its natural state. I don’t think I’ve ever received so many compliments!

With fellow naturalista, Chrisette Michele

NC: How did you come to sing back-up for Solange and Chrisette Michele?

Ava: After college I moved to NYC from Austin to pursue music. About a year later a drummer friend of mine from Texas introduced me to a few members of Chrisette’s band at the time, they mentioned she needed a backing vocalist and suggested that I attend one of the rehearsals in NYC. I decided to check it out and we clicked instantly. I toured with her for a few years. It was a really cool learning experience and the start of a great friendship.

 Coincidently Solange was the opening act on the last Chrisette tour I was on so I had the chance to meet her then. She and I also record at the same recording studio in NYC, Brown Sugar Studios. The studio owner is a good friend of mine and recommended me to her for her “True” tour. I was out of the country when I received the call about auditions. Needless to say I was pretty bummed that I wasn’t around to audition however I received another call a few weeks later, auditioned and got the gig. It has been a lot of fun.

NC: What is it like singing side by side with other naturalistas?

Ava: Pretty cool actually. We share a common bond because of our hair which is inspiring (personally and I believe to other curlies as well as those thinking about going natural).

We constantly discuss and compare our favorite products and hair regimen which is also fun.

NC: What’s your current hair routine?

Ava: It totally depends on my schedule, but I try to stay close to the following:

Co-wash and detangle once or twice a week and follow with leave in conditioner. I then apply an oil or butter followed by hair cream (LOC method) and style in a wet twist out (about 12-15 twists). I let this dry overnight and in the morning I pull twists apart and style. This helps with moisture retention, curl definition and to combat shrinkage. 

The next two to four nights I will either dry twist or leave hair as is, depending on how moisturized it is and considering the style / look I want to achieve the next day. 

On the road I don’t twist out as often, so my hair more of a true afro, the curls are a little less defined and not as loose, which I also really like.

If I want more curl definition and less shrinkage: before bed I add oil or cream to dry hair and twist (larger twists than co-wash day – about 8-10). In the morning I untwist and style.

A couple times a week I apply a mixture of castor oil, rosemary and tea tree to my scalp and massage. 

For a little extra TLC (3 or 4 times a month) I will also sleep with regular or deep conditioner on my hair which I rinse out in the morning and style as I usually would on co-wash day.

I don’t use any heat on my hair. I’ve committed to a challenge of no heat for one year. So far I don’t miss heat one bit. 

I also sleep on a satin pillow case at night. That’s about it! 

NC: Must-have products?

Ava:

• Natures Gate Detangling Conditioner
• Kinky Curly “Come Clean” Shampoo for those rare occasions when I wash my hair. It’s sulfate-free.
• Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioner
• Jane Carter Nourish and Shine
• Jane Carter Nourishing Cream
• Carol’s Daughter Minoi Mask for deep conditioning 
• Pure Castor Oil 

NC: What do you love the most about your afro?

Ava: How unpredictable it is. Everyday it seems to take on a new shape. I’m having a lot of fun with it.

NC: What advice can you extend to some of the natural newbies?

Ava: First, identify your hair type! Once you know what you are working with, the easier it will be. Take the time to find a hair regimen / products that work best for your hair type and lifestyle. It will take some time , trial and error but once you discover the right formula for your hair it’s worth it.

NC: What are you working on now?

Ava: In addition to touring with Solange, I’m currently in the process of writing and recording new music that I plan to release later this year.

NC: How can our readers find you on the web?

Ava:

AvaRaiin.com

Twitter: @AvaRaiin

Instagram: @AvaRaiin

Facebook.com/avaraiinmusic

MORE: Real Texture Talk: NFL Cheerleader Goes Natural

Danetha Doe, former Indianapolis Colts cheerleader, is auditioning for the San Francisco 49ers Gold Rush squad. While she cheered, she wore a relaxer and weaves. Since then, Danetha has embraced her natural hair and will rock it during auditions! NaturallyCurly interviewed her about her natural hair journey on and off the field.

NC: Do you feel pressure to wear your hair relaxed or wear weaves in your industry?

DD: Yes, there is a certain level of pressure to wear a weave in the professional dance industry. Parts of our dance routines have “hairography” elements where you have to whip your hair. With afro textured hair, my hair doesn’t whip like it does with a weave and sometimes I feel out of place during those sequences because of my hair texture.

NC: What has your experience been wearing your hair natural to auditions?

DD: So far, I’ve had a positive experience wearing my hair to the preparation clinics for Auditions. I’m the only one rocking an afro and I’ve received a lot of compliments on my hair. Also, since there are so many girls in the process, it’s important to find a way to make yourself noticed. My hair has definitely helped me stand out! My biggest concern is making sure I don’t sweat my hair out after a long day of heavy dancing!

NC: What has the reaction been from other cheerleaders? From staff? From your family? 

DD: The reaction from other cheerleaders, and staff, has been really positive. I’ve received a lot of compliments from the Gold Rush squad and other ladies that are trying out. I’ve also had women from other squads from the NFL and NBA reach out to me and wish me luck! The overall support, especially from those that don’t have afro textured hair, has been amazing and reassuring.

This halo of diffused curls from TIGI has a softness that results from natural movement. Volume created at the roots supports the loose shape flattering the face and the rounded overall shape.

Get the Look

1. Diffuse the hair, constantly stimulating the hair at the roots to create volume.

2. When hair begins to feel dry, remove the diffuser and blast the roots with the dryer to loosen up the shape.

3. Personalize the finished look, creating width by gently backcombing the sides with fingers and comb.

4. Finish with Bed Head Masterpiece to add shine and long-lasting hold.

MORE: How to Wrap and Roll Your Curls 

Inspired by the Matrix texture experts in Brazil, this technique is for women who want to keep their curls. New 3D Curl Service enhances and defines curls, banishing frizz while boosting dimension.

Get the Look

1. Shampoo hair with Total Results Sleek Shampoo, rinse and towel dry. Section hair into four quadrants. Starting at the nape, take ½-inch horizontal partings and apply 2-3 pumps of Opti.smooth Pre-Treat from scalp to ends. Complete entire head.

2. Outline the back left and right with Opti.smooth Smoothing Cream. Using ¼- to ½-inch horizontal sub-sections, apply smoothing crème starting 1/8 -inch off the scalp to the first 1½ inches of hair with a comb. Work half way up the head, then repeat on left side. Continue working right-to-left and complete the back. Apply smoothing crème to ends using a wide-tooth comb and gently scrunch again. Work side-to-side, scrunching remaining hair.

3. Process for 15-30 minutes, depending on hair type and desired curl pattern.

4. After processing, rinse with warm water and use a scrunching technique for 7-10 minutes. Towel blot and gently detangle using a wide-tooth comb.

MORE: How to Wrap and Roll Your Curls

According to Nielsen, 111.3 million viewers watched the Super Bowl XLVII, making it the most-watched television event in U.S. history. But it wasn’t just our dads, brothers and boyfriends watching — 45% of viewers were women.

With over 50 million women watching and a lineup that included Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce Knowles, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, this was the largest opportunity in U.S. history to put naturally curly hair center stage. 

But the power wasn’t the only thing missing last night. Alicia, Jennifer, Beyonce, Kelly and Michelle have all been known to rock curly locks in the past, but none were present last night. Don’t get us wrong, Alicia’s coif was sleek, Kelly’s blunt bangs were fierce, and Bey looked drop dead gorgeous, there’s no denying it. But we join 49ers fans in mourning the loss of a huge opportunity.

There was, however, one standout on stage. Bibi McGill has an incredible stage presence in her own right, but if you missed her then you undoubtedly spotted her firework-shooting guitar during a headbanging dual with Beyonce (we’re jealous).

Bibi is the guitarist in Bey’s all-female backing band, but she’s not your average rockstar. As a devoted yoga instructor and founder of her own company producing kale chips, it’s easy to see where going natural figured into her holistic lifestyle.

If you want to know more about Bibi’s hair journey, her routine, and what it’s like to work with Beyonce, then check out her celebrity interview on CurlyNikki!

When KTBS-TV meteorologist Rhonda Lee responded to a negative comment left by a viewer on KTBS Facebook page, she had no idea that respectfully and professionally expressing her reasons for embracing her natural hair would lead to her termination from the Louisiana news station.

The comment was about Lee’s close-shaven haircut, and although the remark was short, the snarky quip suggested that she cover her own natural hairstyle with a wig or grow some more hair to appease the uncomfortable viewer who questioned whether she was a cancer patient. It read “the black lady that does the news is a very nice lady. the only thing is she needs to wear a wig or grow some more hair. im not sure if she is a cancer patient. but still its not something myself that i think looks good on tv. what about letting someone a male have waist long hair do the news.what about that [sic].”

Lee’s measured and tactful response discussed her pride in her African-American ancestry, graciously explained the texture of her hair and even touched on the complications of the standards of beauty. “I am very proud of my African-American ancestry which includes my hair,” said Lee. “For your edification: traditionally our hair doesn’t grow downward. It grows upward. Many Black women use strong straightening agents in order to achieve a more European grade of hair, and that is their choice. However, in my case, I don’t find it necessary. I’m very proud of who I am and the standard of beauty I display. Women come in all shapes, sizes, nationalities, and levels of beauty. Showing little girls that being comfortable in the skin and HAIR God gave me is my contribution to society. Little girls (and boys for that matter) need to see that what you look like isn’t a reason to not achieve their goals. Conforming to one standard isn’t what being American is about and I hope you can embrace that. Thank you for your comment and have a great weekend, and thank for watching.”

Despite her efforts and display of patience, Lee was fired from her position as meteorologist for reportedly violating company policy against responding to viewer comments on social media.

MORE: Is Naturally Curly Hair Right for Work?

The question of whether or not natural hair is an appropriate style in the workplace has been a topic that has been discussed for awhile now. As recent as earlier this month, we were discussed the Vice Magazine article that questioned readers if the felt their natural hair had negatively affected them professionally. An article on CurlyNikki.com by Skinny Kenny delves even further into the blatant discrimination a person with naturally curly hair can face in supposed professional settings and adds to the number of inappropriate incidences that now include the Shreveport meteorologist.

Throughout the year, incidences involving the policing of natural hair have become more and more common. The preoccupation with how black women are choosing to wear their hair continues to grow, from women reluctantly having their afros checked by intrusive TSA agents in the airport around the country, to the media’s prolonged fascination with Viola Davis’ choice to ditch her wig when she’s off camera.

These stories add to the conversation about beauty standards when it comes to race and gender as well as the importance of exploring the need for diversity and representation but it’s time for the policing of women’s bodies including their hair and the attempts to silence those who dare to speak out against glaring discrimination to end.

What do you think? Should Rhonda Lee have been fired for responding to a Facebook comment?