Naturally Fierce Feature: Von

Hi, I am Von From Chicago, IL

How long have you been natural? My last relaxer was june of 2011, so technically I’ve been natural for two years now.

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

I was motivated to go natural in the first place because my sons go to a diverse school, and I’ve notice most of the girls they like have a certain hair type, and I just wanted them to know our hair type was just as appealing. I did transition because I did not have the confidence to walk around bald chilllllld. I do regret the fact that i transitioned for so long though because my natural hair took a beating while trying to balance two different textures.

How would you describe your hair? B.I.G.

What do you love most about your hair?

The thing I love most about my hair is the versatility to wear it in sooo many ways, and also the attention i get when I let it all hang out.

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

The most memorable part of my journey was a few months back, my seven year old son knew i would be at his school, he said ‘mom, are you wearing your big hair today?’ i said ‘i might, why?’ he said, “cause i like it like that, and all the girls in my class think you look pretty like that” I was PROUD! Its been really easy though since i mostly wear protective styles, im not so talented in that department,which is why i was apprehensive in the first place.

What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?

My fave transitioning styles were braid outs and wigs i made myself.

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

My family didn’t think i was serious at first because i had been singing that i was going natural since 2004, but when i finally did it they embraced it, and now my younger sisters want to STAY natural.

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?

My only fav product so far has been the Cantu Shea butter leave in repair creme and regular coconut oil, other than that i keep it simple as possible with my washes and moisturizers.

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

My fave just recently YouTuber, Blogger is MoKnowsHair, She so educated and detailed about techniques as well as products. Also since last spring (2013) Alyssa Forever is a youtube guru when it comes to making simple styles pop, she just an all around talented person.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

I want readers to know that going natural is a LIFESTYLE and NOT a trend, if you’re not in it for the long run or the right reasons, it wont be a priority and it’ll be likely you lose hair from damage, or relapse off the creamy crack (relaxer) lol.

Where can people find you for more information? On IG @shhhhvon although im not one of those avid posters who post everything about hair, because hair isn’t everything.