Hey, my name is Imani Evans, I’m 21 and I’m a fashion blogger from England!
#dope
How long have you been natural?
I’ve been natural from day one! As a young child my Nan did my hair because my Mum couldn’t cope with it but from the age of 9 I always did my own hair and although at times I found it inconvenient I never wanted to relax or perm my hair even though family members told me that I should. I decided to learn how to make it easier for myself, so I used to make sure I would twist it before bed and use the right products.
How often do you trim?
I’ve never done a ‘big chop’ but even getting my hair trimmed freaks me out! But I still make sure I face my fears and get it trimmed every 2 months. As natural women we don’t want a pair of scissors to come near our hair because of the fear that it may not ‘grow back’ but I have seen my hair grow faster and healthier when its trimmed regularly.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey?Has it been easy or difficult or both?
Well something I will never forget from my childhood is when my mum took me to get my hair in extensions. I had single plaits put in and I hated it. I hated the fact that it wasn’t my natural hair, I just disliked everything about it! So I guess I’ve always been a naturalista! Also, about a year ago I decided that I wanted to put my hair away for a little while and I had seen so many other women look great with amazing weaves so I decided to try it and yep, you guessed… I hated that too! So I’ve tried to do two different things with my hair and I’ve come to the conclusion that I just love my hair THE WAY IT IS!
What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
My favourite hairstyle is what I call my ‘Get up & GO!’ So at night I just put a hair net on and a headscarf over it. Then in the morning I take off the headscarf and just tip my head upside down, rough it up a little and then just GO! My other favourite hairstyle is a Mohawk! Its such a fierce hairstyle! & when I’m having my lazy days, I just tie my hair back or put it in a simple bun.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural.’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
Well the reactions are quite funny sometimes. People want to touch it and ask “How did you get your hair like this?” and I’m just like.. ” Thank you but I didn’t do anything to get my hair like this. I’m a natural black woman, God made me this way!” Its really lovely when people compliment your hair but I have also had some negativity. I’ve had someone say to me “Why don’t you make it straight? Its too tough, everybody is looking at your tough head!” and other comments along those lines. I haven’t allowed anything to influence me because as far as I’m concerned its 2013, people need to stop with the ignorance and if we listen to them then we will just make future generations always feel like they are not good enough because their hair is too “Tough”. Every single human being on this earth deserves the right to be themselves.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
The only brand of shampoo and conditioner I use is “AUSSIE”. I tried so many others but this brand is fantastic. It keeps your hair soft while washing and it smells beautiful. To keep my hair soft and shiny I use carrot oil. My biggest hair tip is to regularly steam your hair! I go to the sauna and steam room once a month and when I’m in there I put carrot oil in my hair and put a plastic cap over it! When I come out my hair is all bouncy and soft!
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
GLOBAL COUTURE OF COURSE! I love what this brand stands for. It’s all about self love and appreciation and that’s so important because in todays society people are more focused on changing themselves rather than loving what they already have. It’s so inspiring to read the ‘Naturally Fierce Features’ and to read about everyone’s individual story. (I’m blushing.. thank you!)
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
Love yourself. Love every kink, every scar, every mark that makes you, YOU. Also, never forget that if your a mother… your children are watching you. So teach your daughters that they only need to be themselves, they don’t need to strive to be the Beyoncé’s or Rihanna’s of this world. They just need to be the best version of themselves.
Where can people find you for more information?
My blog is: www.fashionandtingz.blogspot.com
Twitter: fashionandtingz
Instagram: fashionandtingz
Email: fashionandting@gmail.com
