DIY: Cut-off Shorts

Before

While helping my grandmother clean out her closet I came across a pair of really cool, high-waisted pants. Not only did they fit perfectly, but the corduroy texture was so unique. Taking a quick break from helping, I quickly snatched these out of the donation bag for my new DIY project idea.

Look at that pattern!

This DIY is super easy and does not require a lot of skill or supplies.
You simple need 1) a pair of scissors 2) a marker and 3) a pair of old high waisted pants.

1) Turn the pants inside out trying them on.

2) Using the marker, mark where to cut the pants to determine the length of the shorts.

**Tip: It's easier to cut later then it is to add fabric.**

I changed my mind three times about the length of shorts, hence the three lines.

3) Fold the pants in half and cut across in a straight line.

**Tip: Cutting both legs at the same time ensures that both legs will be an even length.**

4) Roll the edges of the shorts once or twice to create a hem.

5) Iron the hem lightly for a crisp line...

After

And your finished! A new pair of high-waisted shorts without any sewing and for free. Since my shorts are made out of corduroy (which is not a typical summer material) I will probably save them for the fall/winter. Perhaps, rock them with a pair of tights and some booties like in the picture below.

Source

DIY- Wicker Chest

I wanted a trunk or chest to store my bedding and still have the flexibility to bring it back to school in the fall. I found exactly what I was looking for online at Target:

One look at the price and I knew I could find it cheaper. I found a wicker chest in Goodwill for only $20. It was dirty, but the had solid bones. After a good wipe down and two bottles of spray paint it looks brand new. The amount of storage it holds is insane!  

Wicker Chest- Before

One coat of spray paint completed

Holds all of my bedding and towels for school

In love with the name of the color-- Robin's Egg Blue

Tips for buying second hand furniture:

• Look beyond the outer appearance. After something is thoroughly cleaned it will look brand new.
• Remember wood can always be sanded, stained, and repainted.
• As long as the furniture has good bones (ie. no rotting wood or broken frames) than there is potential.
• Always leave the furniture outside or in the garage until after cleaned. You do not want any uninvited guests entering your home!

Texture Shots

What is my hair texture? How would I describe it? My hair is super thick and coily. I don't agree with hair typing systems, but if I had to choose I would say I am a "4ish".

My curls with Henna

The closest thing I can compare the size of my coils to are the springs in an ink pen. At different places of my head my coils are either tighter, looser, or completely undefined. The back portion of my hair is defined making perfect tiny spirals. The crown of my head is slightly looser and is always frizzy compared to the rest of my head. The very front of my head lacks any defined curly pattern and is the slowest part of my hair to grow.

The very front of my hair

                 

Pictures of my hair with no product.   

The different textures and lengths creates challenges when styling, but I finally learned how to create consistent hairstyles. My secret weapon--twist outs!

Sisters- Myah's Natural Hair Journey

I am the oldest of four girls. My sisters and I are all natural, but like our personalities and physical appearances we are all very different including our hair textures. My sister closest in age to me is Myah (13). She has recently done the big chop (BC) and is now rocking a fade.

While my hair is thick and course, Myah’s is the opposite. She probably has the softest and finest hair out of all of us. Her hair does not respond well to relaxers, heat, or stress. As a result, her hair kept on breaking and my mom cut her hair even more to even out.

Crawfish anyone?

Myah's hair grew worse as patches of missing hair started appearing in her scalp. My mother decided to take the leap and let Myah cut the few remaining relaxed ends off. My little sister began her natural hair journey.

My little sister is the biggest goof ball!

Myah's challenge now is to find natural hair products and techniques that will work for her. I gave her my bottles of Kinky Curling Custard (KCC) and the KCC leave-in. Since these products didn't work in my hair I figured Myah should give them a try. So far these products seemed to be working for Myah.

I hope to keep you updated on her Natural Hair Journey! 

Natural Hair The End of Black Salon Culture?

 While browsing the internet I came across an article that brought up a lot of debate--“Is Natural Hair the End of Black Salon Culture?” I really thought this was an interesting question and wanted to share my point of view.

Source: NubianSouls Locks

Natural hair has grown as women of many ethnicities return to their born kinks and curls. However, I do not believe the increase of natural hair will be the end of “Black Salon Culture”. It is a valid statement that many naturals have not received the best experiences going to the salon and instead opt to do their hair themself. Yet, there are still women who continue to visit the salon, both, relaxed and natural to receive services, such as straightening, braids, extensions, and coloring that some women may not necessarily feel comfortable performing themselves. These women may choose to get their hair done at salons that are not traditionally considered “Black Hair Salons” like the Dominicans or salons that cater to a white clientele.

I personally transitioned to natural because I lacked the knowledge and skill to maintain my relaxed hair. While transitioning I actually sought out a hairdresser who could take care of my natural hair. I was not able to find who wouldn’t always encourage me to fry my hair with a pressing comb or charge more than the actual amount of the relaxer. This is a lost for black hair salons who lost me as valuable customer. For me, the benefit of the black hair salon culture does not outweigh the negatives of long waiting times, unhealthy hair, the cost, and leaving the salon unsatisfied with the results. It is important to remember that beauty salons are a business and must be run as an efficient one. In order for salons to survive the encroachment on its market it must adapt and cater to the needs of its clientele. Hairstylists should become better informed on natural hair terminology, how to maintain healthy relaxed hair, offer sulfate free and organic products, and increase their overall professionalism. Luckily, I used my natural hair as an opportunity to learn how to do my hair myself for the first time in my life and am enjoying the journey so far.

To read the full article click here.

OOTD: Mexican Birthday Bash

I picked up a pair of cheetah print pants from Target last week. The pants costed me a whopping $8.00. The cheetah print seems big this season popping up many store collections. I couldn't wait to wear them to my friend's birthday dinner at a mexican restaurant.

Purse: Some store in the Netherlands;  Shoes: Belk ($16)

Pants: Target ($); Tank: Old Navy ($3) 
Necklace: From my Grandmother's collection

                            Here is the Birthday Girl, Samah, with her fiesta hat on!

I wonder how many different ways I can wear these pants?

OOTD: Graduation

Outfit of the Day

First outfit of the day! (I am excited can you tell?) Tis' the season for high school diplomas. I wore this dress to graduation and threw on a black blazer afterwards for a job interview. Fingers cross that I get the job.

Dress: Marshalls ($16); Wedges: Target ($25) 

Necklace: Rugged Wearhouse (~$5) 

Earrings: Claires ($1)

Shout out to my girl Sasha for graduating high school. Look at all that regalia around her neck!