Naturally Fierce Feature: Kiara

My name is Kiara aka @reallyfemale on Social MediaJ. I’m from Jackson, MS but I currently live in the DMV and I am addicted to Selfies. lol I’m pursuing a Masters Degree in Public Administration and I plan to someday in the future have such an impact on society that I won’t have to introduce myself.

How long have you been natural?

It will officially be 3 years in October 2014. Time is moving faster than I expected.

What motivated you to transition? Were you atransitioner or a Big Chopper & why?

I guess you can say I was a Big Chopper. My partner dared me to cut off all my hair and then I double dared her. As you can tell, we were bored one day and wanted to do something spontaneous. It resulted in me leaving Super Cuts without about 11 inches of hair.

How would you describe your hair?

Other than THICK… I would say that she is AMAZING. She has taught me so much about myself that I didn’t even thick hair had the power to. She’s vivacious and very independent. I really can’t tell her what to do; she has a mind of her own.

What do you love most about your hair? I love the versatility and the fact that I can have a twist-out on Monday, bantu knots on Tuesday, a high puff on Wednesday and Thursday, and then a blow-out on Friday. She commands attention while also taking it away from me.

What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!

I was overweight when I first cut my hair and I was insecure because my BIG CHOP made me think I looked like a whale. I had nothing to hide behind so I had to regain my confidence. Now I am more confident with my body and my hair receives all the attention. I now envy my hair. lol She has taken over all of my social media pages and selfies. She gets compliments before I (Kiara) am even acknowledged but it was the best decision I could ever make. I can’t wait to see how much more WE grow together and hope to inspire others to love their natural hair! My journey has been easy and difficult but I wouldn’t trade it for anyone else’s.

What are  some of your favorite hairstyles?

I definitely have to go with my high puff when I’m lazy and two strand twist outs because they give mesooooo much definition. I recently tried a wash & go and fell in love as well.

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?

At first everyone hated it, including me. The common question was “why did you cut your hair”? My response “Its just hair, it will grow back” AND IT DID.

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?

Shea Moisture and Carol’s Daughter hands down! The smell is delicious, my hair loves it, and as long as she is happy, I’m happy! Both of those brands have amazing products; I really can’t pick a favorite.

What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?

Taren Guy hands down is my curl crush. I’m crushing hard on CurlyNikki too. I enjoy watching women take over the world.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

Don’t seek acceptance or approval from others before you accept yourself. The world is a better place with images already established of what is “beautiful” but beauty comes from the mind and the spirit. If you believe you’re beautiful, the world will as well.

Where can people find you for more information?

Instagram: @reallyfemale Youtube.com/reallyfemale Facebook.com/KiaraNButler Tumblr.com/blog/reallyfemale