Back Soon | Blog Re-launch September 17th!

It's been a while and I've decided it's high time I let you know what is going on and why I haven't been blogging. I have finally decided it is time to move over to wordpress so that I can have more control of my content and how it looks. It has been a huge effort but we are almost there and the blog will re-launch itself on wordpress on the 15th September *fingers crossed*!

I absolutely love blogspot, it's where this love story kicked off, but sometimes you have to take risks in order to move forward! Haha, sounds like a life speech. I'm clearly having too much fun.

Anyway I will be back to filimg and blogging in less than a weeks time and can't wait!

Thank you for sticking through my MIA antics and see you on September 17th! [date updated!]

x
Fi
Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

NEW HAIR | MercysHairExtensions U-Part Wig + Blending Natural Hair With Curly Weave

Happy Wednesday Loves!

Just in case you hadn't already snuck a peek at my new hairstyle well here it is, a juicy U-Part Wig using MercysHairExtensions.

I was sent this hair a good six plus months ago and decided I wanted to embrace my natural hair for a few months before opting for any protective/weave like styles, which meant after a few months a.k.a now! I was super excited to finally have this made into a U-Part and try out something new! Natural hair styling is a tonne of fun but definitely requires a lot of time which right now I seem to have very little of, so this unit has really been a God send!

Some of you may also know I've not used a drop of heat on my hair since Nov 2013 when I chopped off my relaxed ends, so I was so relieved when my flexi rod set made for the perfect ringlets which blended my hair quite well with the 'Deep Malaysian Curls' [of course I whipped up a quick 5 minute video on the blending process!]

I can definitely say I would wholeheartedly recommend this hair. I loved Creta Girl but she couldn't survive the storm, human hair over synthetic hair any day!

Before I sign out just some details on the type of hair used, bundles, inches etc followed by some video takes showing how I went from the yummy fro to the diva curls! 

 MercysHairExtensions

Malaysian Deep Curly

18' x 1

20' x 2

Natural Colour

3 Bundles

U-Part Wig made by @Mariahldn

www.mercyshairextensions.com

Old Twist Out, Fro Life!

'Braided Up', cornrows give me wrist cramps so braids for the win!

Shower cap or weave cap? Shower cap! Leaves me with super soft hair

Flexi Rods with Design Essentials Twist & Set Setting Lotion, previously used here

Avec amour… Fiona

Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Detangling Tool Showdown + Tool Giveaway [CLOSED]

I recently hosted a detangling tool giveaway on Youtube and whilst I hadn't completely taken a break from all things Social media I most certainly put blogging on hold for a few weeks [explanation here]. 
Well as the blog of course remains my first love, there was no way I was not going to host the same giveaway on here too, so if you missed the Youtube giveaway then there's always the chance you'll scoop something here!
I've used a ton of detangling tools over the past few years and decided it was high time I benchmarked them all against each other. Some have wrecked a whole lot of havoc on my hair whilst others live in a glittery royalty box a.k.a my staples box. Hopefully this will help you decide which tool may just work for you.
 So here it goes, the detangling tool showdown… [giveaway entry below]

DENMAN CLASSIC D3 STYLING BRUSH
Cost | £6.99

Pros | Flexible bristles, great quality, very durable & good handle grip 
Cons | I find the spacing between the bristles is simply not wide enough which can mean more tension and manipulation on your hair when detangling. You can indeed space out the bristles however I would rather invest in a tool that is ready made and does not require altering. I prefer using this in the shower.
Rating | 3/5

FELICIA LEATHERWOOD DETANGLING BRUSH
Cost | £9.95

Pros | Flexible bristles as well as flexible bristle comb sections, great quality, durable & great handle grip
Cons | UK accessibility. I purchased this from Gidore.com but it has been out of stock for a while now.
Rating | 5/5

KENT AIRHEDZ PRO AHP6 PADDLE BRUSH
Cost | £10.20

Pros | Flexible bristle base, large surface area, excellent quality, great handle grip.
Cons | UK accessibility, may be sold in some larger Boots.com stores.
Rating | 4/5

TANGLE TEEZER
Cost | £10.99

Pros | Super flexible bristles, unique ergonomic grip
Cons | Bristles wear easily and can form bubbles which can catch onto your hair. I also think this may have been one of the main causes of a plague of single strand knots which caused me to have to trim not too long after my transitioner chop.
Rating | 1/5

To enter for a chance to win any two brand new detangling tools of your choice all you have to do is comment 'enter me' in the comments section below. Winner will be chosen at random and announced next week Thursday in this blog post!


***
UPDATE
Sorry for the late announcement of the Giveaway winner guys BA lost my luggage whilst travelling which took me off track for a few days. Nevertheless the winner of the giveaway is...

ORIANNA THOMAS
[Please send me an email within 24 hours to claim your gifts]

thank you to everyone who entered
***

Avec amour… Fiona

Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Overcoming Your Past & Moving Past Regret

Hello Loves,

So where do I start? How about with my absence right! 

For the first time ever I only feel a little bit guilty for not posting on the blog. Now before you raise your brows and give up on me, let me explain! There are some super exciting changes that will be happening in my life in the next coming months starting from August, and the only way I have been able to prepare for them has been planning planning planning. I'm living in Excel sheets, my iPhone notes app and sending emails back and forth like a headless chicken #nopunintended #ithasreallybeenthatcrazy

But, the good news is I am back to posting and so excited to be here again. I posted this video on my youtube channel yesterday and whilst this is a blog focused mainly on haircare, I can't help but be myself and share snippets of my life, thoughts and dreams with you all. So thank you for being patient with me and enjoy...

'Overcoming Your Past & Moving Past Regret'

Till Thursday!

Avec amour...
Fiona

Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Giveaway : Hair-ology Conference Tickets [closed]

I love educational hair events, don't get me wrong the hair fairs and shows are amazing but I must admit I can be socially awkward/shy and small intimate events like this are right up my street!

I had the pleasure of being one of the guest speakers last year and I can honestly say it was a great event. Getting hair advice and tips from the likes of the Philip Kingsley team and salon owner Darren Scott & James was nothing short of a treat.

Unfortunately I won't be able to make the event this year due to work travel arrangements but I've been given two free tickets to giveaway here on the blog, so this time you can fill me in on it!

All you have to do to be entered for the giveaway is like the Hairology Conference Page on Facebook and comment  'enter me' in the comments section of this blog post 

Winners will be chosen at random. All the best!!!

Giveaway closes on June 23rd midnight and winners will be announced here and on Facebook!

UPDATE: Congratulations Laolu A & Cosmicgirl80!!! Please drop me an email with your contact details

Love always...
Fiona

Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Imperfectly Perfect: Unapologetically Myself

If there is anyone in my immediate family that could have been labelled the nerd growing up it was me. I wore the highest rise turtle neck, indulged in poem writing, doing well in school and absolutely loved to read. I can't however say the same for my older self, who finds most of her comfort reads in hair/fashion/beauty blogs, youtube and my iphone bible app!

Well, just a few weeks ago I challenged myself to read more and made my first book purchase as part of this new reading lifestyle I intend on making permanent.  I was looking for something inspirational or motivational that I could apply to my life but also to the life of five beautiful young ladies I mentor. So I started with 'Unapologetically You: Reflections on Life and the Human Experience' by Dr steve Maraboli. A good read? You bet! But not for the reasons you may think!

I've come to learn as a mentor that it's so easy to encourage and motivate others with lines and parables about happiness, joy, overcoming hard times and being the best you can be, but before you do this it's so important to deal with yourself first, and Lord knows I had a whole lot of dealing to do, especially on the topic of my weight and how I perceive and embrace myself.

Just like almost every female on the planet I've had my fair share of weight issues, you'll be pleased to know it has never been an option to lose weight as I think you'd agree there would be nothing left of me! But the jungles and rivers I've jumped through and over in hopes of throwing some extra thickness unto my thighs has been no joke! Peakmilk, supermalt challenge, nourishment, dollops of peanut butter in every smoothie etc. Whilst it's considered a blessing to be able to eat all of the junk and food in the world and not gain a gram, it most certainly hasn't always felt that way. I've always wanted to be just a tad bit thicker.

 Well, the time has come to put all of that to one side and embrace more, love more and appreciate the way I was created just that bit more… and so should you!

“There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologetically herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty.” 

Love always … Fiona
Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Hair Talk: Things I Wish I Knew Before Transitioning

I know I know the past few weeks have been a whole lot of transitioner talk! I can't help it! With two friends and three blogger sisters [Ebony of Longing4Length], [Jen of JustGrowAlready] & [Lesley of FreshLengths] recently deciding to give the transitioning thing a go, the excitement has me wanting to pour out all of my experiences and reflections here on the blog - I'm almost jealous they get to relive the moment, though I'm not sure I would sign myself up to do it all over again!
Had I been able to turn back the hands of time [#IfOnlyRight!] Here are some of the things I would have liked to have known

I wish I knew... That it is best to have your big chop/ transitioner chop done professionally. Doing the 'chop' yourself may, like in my case lead to 'unevenness'. Whilst the thought of cutting off your ends yourself may have you twerking with excitement, the reality of needing a second chop a few months later to even things out probably won't! Get a friend to follow you to a reputable salon and record/take pictures of the moment for you.
I wish I knew… Texture fantasies almost never come true! The video [below] goes into more detail on this but be careful not to become too fixed on a texture that you want. Transitioning is more than just a texture change, challenge yourself to embrace naturalness in its entirety and find yourself a natural role model with a texture you've never imagined yourself with. Peep how your natural role model rocks their hair and how confident they are wearing it and slowly you'll make your transition and life as a newly natural a whole lot easier!
I wish I knew… Single strand knots just can't keep away. Thinking of doing a second chop because the  knots have plagued your hair? Well don't! Single strand knots are very common among naturals and not so easy to get rid of. Give yourself a regular enough trim to keep them at bay and get on with enjoying your natural hair already!
I wish I knew… to steer clear of too many detangling tools. I absolutely love my detangling tools especially the Felicia Leatherwood detangling brush, however, excessive use of these means a whole lot of manipulation on your strands. Your fingers are also great detangling tools and wreak less havoc on your hair. Try and only use your tools when your hair is seroiusly tangled or when trying to achieve a style that requires extreme smoothness.
& for the final I wish I knew fast forward to 9:13 in the video below


Avec amour… Fiona
Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Hair : Flower Bun Hairband… When The Sun Comes Out To Play

Over the past few weeks I've found myself super uninspired to do anything with my hair. My weeks are pretty much a blur of Monday flights, hotels, clients, unpacking, re-packing and catching up on lost sleep. I've even found myself in frequent hate-offs with my headscarf! The thought of having to put it on at night feels like a 2 hour workout! A girl just wants to sleep!

All of that changed however at the weekend when the Sun decided to come out and play! I wish you could have seen how quickly I jumped out of bed on Saturday morning when the first rays of sunshine hit my window, I love the Sun!!! 

After a shower and delicious red pepper and onion omelet I whipped out my glue gun and some faux flowers and got to diy-ing.

I love how something so simple can add so much life to a simple hairstyle! What do you think? I love it!

[What You Need]
Glue Gun
Scissors
Elastic
Faux Flowers
*all purchased from Hobbycraft*

cutting flowers from the stem

naked bun

also squeezed in a video!

Avec amour… Fiona
Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

5 May Articles

Just some of my fave memories/ places/ people this month… can't wait for June and what should hopefully be the perfect start to a warm and fun filled Summer!

Life in Instagram

[Top Left to Right] 
[1] Maya Angelou , appreciating the works of this remarkable woman. Truly an inspiration
[2] Wedding fever, creating memories with my faves
[3] Big sis & Little sis, always time for a selfie!
[4] Appreciating how loved and blessed I am
[5]Sundays are for family
[6] New easy hairstyle fave
[7] You are Beautiful
[8] The power of words
[9] 6 months post transitioner chop length check video

My new addiction, Quartz Crystal Jewellery. Handmade by Brickrunway

A fun and quirky read I came across during my last salon visit - by Phillip Kingsley

Much needed trip back to Ghana

Gorgeous beaded slippers from Accra Art Center. I can't wait for the sun to come out so I can wear these!

Avec amour...
Fiona

Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Transitioner Checklist: A Transitioners Guide To The Perfect Regimen [Part 2]

source

So following on from the first post of this mini Series on Things You Need To Know Before Transitioning, you're now most probably wanting to know how to get started, which products work best for transitioners, how to avoid breakage, which transitioner styles to rock etc. Well, this post and the third part of this Series [coming soon], will help you with exactly that! First of all let's get to regimen building and one of my most frequently asked questions
Which Regimen Works Best For Transitioning Hair?

There is no go to regimen for transitioners as I'm sure you can imagine. With so many different hair types out there and more so a head full of many different textures in itself, the "ideal regimen" differs for each individual. There are however some ways to enhance each step of the "transitioning hair regimen" in order to cater to some of the most talked about transitioner issues such as tangling and breakage. So here we go, some of your questions answered...

What is "Pre-pooing" and how does it benefit my Hair when transitioning?

If you haven't been doing this already, now may be a great time to start. 'Pre-pooing'  is simply the act of preparing your hair for shampooing. Shampooing can strip our hair of essential nutrients and moisture so the goal of pre-pooing is to reduce the 'shampoo stripping effect'. In most cases it also helps detangle your hair prior to washing which of course means less shower tangling i.e less breakage. Another extra is, if you choose to pre-poo with an oil for example [depending on which oil you use and for how long] you may be able to reduce the amount of water your hair penetrates. But wait, water is good for our hair, no? Yes indeed it is! However there is such a thing as too much water penetration which can over expand the shafts of our hair in turn also leading to our dear friend 'breakage'.

Recommended Products: Any oil should do the trick, simply coat your hair with this prior to washing. I am a huge fan of the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Extreme. Whilst it is on the pricier side it definitely does the job plus some. There are also a few other pre-poo products on the market, be sure to do a review and ingredient list check so you get some info on the product before you dive in.

Which Shampoo do I use and how do I prevent it from stripping my Hair?

Transitioning does not mean as I once thought that you need to stack up on a whole new stash of products. For the most part it's worth sticking to what your hair has always liked and trying your best to make whatever you use more moisturising/effective. How can you do this?

Method Add some Oil to your Shampoo

Outcome Adding oils to anything makes them more lubricative, which in turn means easier detangling. You can also add a few drops of essential oils as well as the base oil, the properties are endless! I love using essential oils in just about everything, here are some fave recipes!

Method Add a small amount of Conditioner to your Shampoo

Outcome Many people swear by mixing Conditioner with Shampoo to make the Shampoo more moisturising and less stripping. Whilst this technique can most certainly do that, it can also lead to product build up caused by conditioner deposits being left on your hair and scalp. It's definitely worth trying the Shampoo/Conditioner mix to see how your hair takes to it, but be sure to thoroughly rinse your hair afterwards. I did this occasionally during my transition on a 'not too dirty' scalp and it worked a treat. 

Method The rule of 'everything in four sections'

Outcome Sectioning your hair in four or more sections helps to reduce tangling and makes just about every step of your regimen a whole lot easier! That's all there is too it! #PinkySwear 

Recommended Products: I pretty much used any Shampoo during my transition with some of the above methods. But if you're after a brand new Shampoo here are some worth trying: Earth Science Deep Conditioning Shampoo, AsIAm Cleansing Pudding, AsIAm Coconut Cowash

How often do I Deep Condition and what are the best DC products out there?

On a usual day I would say this depends on how dry your hair is, which as a transitoner is likely to be pretty often! In most cases once a week or at the very least twice a month should suffice [for frequent heat users then the former would apply]. As for how long to let the DC sit on your hair, it's definitely worth checking out the product label suggestion, but in most cases a 15 minute to 30 minute session with a heated tool such as the HairTherapyWrap will have your hair feeling baby bottom soft, and the DC should have done it's job! Finally, be sure to switch it up! Your hair will be in need of both protein and moisture so try and use a protein DC at least once a month.

Recommended Products: [Protein Deep Conditioners] ORS Replenishing Pak, Shea Moisture Anti-Breakage Masque, Original Moxie Re-Wind Protein Treatment, Queen Helene Cholesterol Conditioner. [Moisturising Deep Conditioners] Curl Harmony Intensive Repair Deep Conditioner, As I am Hydration Elation, Philip Kingsley Moisture Extreme Conditioner, Tresemme Naturals

Do I need to use a Leave-In and if so which would you recommend?

Leave-ins are often a God send for transitioners because they usually serve the purpose of moisturising and detangling all at the same time. Check out the recommended products below for a list of great leave-ins which act as both a detangler and light moisturiser.

Recommended Products: Kinky Curly Knot Today, Jane Carter Solution Revitalizing Leave-In Conditioner, Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream


Other

Moisturise & Seal - I am often asked why moisturisers are needed when leave-ins exist. The truth is some leave-ins work perfectly as moisturisers however depending on which leave in you use, a good moisturiser can always come in handy. As for how often to use a moisturiser I personally believe that a good moisturiser should not have to be used everyday, especially if followed up with an oil to seal the moisture in. You can give every other day a try and see how your hair feels. If it's dry you may need to moisturise more frequently or try another moisturiser. It all boils down to ingredients and consistency. See what your leave in offers and how it makes your hair feel.

Scalp Care - This should work in the same way as your regimen prior to transitioning, if you are after general scalp care and also stimulating scalp oils then here are some products I can most certainly recommend

Recommended Products: Jane Carter Solution Scalp Nourishing Serum, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Aloe Vera Gel, Apple Cider Vinegar, Phillip Kingsley Scalp Tonic

Finally, and I really do mean finally! Don't forget to wear a satin or silk scarf to bed or even better get yourself a silk/satin pillowcase to avoid your hair from frictional damage caused by your hair rubbing against the coarse texture of our pillows. We'll save breakage and protective styling for part three! 

P.s here is part one just in case you missed it!
Avec amour… Fiona
Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

6 Months Fully Natural Length Check & Life Updates

Happy Monday Loves!
I sat on the train on my way to work today wondering if you all know how grateful and thankful I am for your friendships and support. It's not always so easy to put that out there because, well, words can only say so much… but after four plus years at this writing/blogging thing, I must say the passion is greater now than it was years ago when I merely considered the idea of a 'blog'. I just wanted to say thank you and to let you know that I am always thinking of you!
P.s I realised I forgot to post this yesterday so just in case you missed it, I filmed my 6 months fully natural length check.

  Avec amour… Fiona
Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest

Transitioner Checklist : Things You Need To Know Before Transitioning [Part 1]

[source]

If you're thinking about going natural or have recently started your transitioning journey you'll probably have a million and one questions, concerns, and be super excited and nervous all at the same time! 

Having tried my hand at transitioning for two years, I sat down last weekend and took a trip down memory lane which led me here to this post! I thoroughly enjoyed my transitioning journey but I can't say it was a walk in the park! I wish someone had told me some of the things I only came to discover half way down the line or in some cases, once fully natural. So in light of that I've put together a little something from me to you to help you prepare for your journey… 

Things You Should Know Before Transitioning

Texture Wars

If you're a bit of a hair nerd like myself you're most probably familiar with the term 'line of demarcation' a.k.a the point where your chemically treated hair meets your new growth, otherwise known as the 'breaking point'. After a few months of being "chemical free" you'll most likely be fascinated by your new growth and its texture, and this is the best time to be because your hair needs all of the attention it can get. Moisture, moisture, moisture! Your hair needs to be kept moisturised! The point at which both hair types meet is very fragile and it's important to ensure that both hair types get some TLC i.e. frequent Deep Conditioning and keeping your hair moisturised. Although you may be getting rid of your chemically treated hair at some point, it's important not to abandon it as this will cause it to break off and leave you with a head full of uneven strands. 

But it's not all so bad, it gets better! There comes a point during your transition when your hair grows out enough and can better handle the weight of your chemically treated hair, which means by this time not only have you better mastered your transitioning regimen but your hair is also less susceptible to breakage.

Heat Temptation

If you've enjoyed the most part of your hair journey rocking super straight hair then there's no denying that you may want to stick to what you know and wear your hair in a straightened state for the most part of your transition. Whilst that is possible it's definitely not a good idea. I would advise steering well clear of heat for the most part of your transition because this weakens the protein bonds in our hair, leading to easier breakage at the 'line of demarcation'. If you are craving heat then at least wait a few months so that you have an understanding of what your hair does and does not take well to. Plus don't forget you can achieve sleek looking hairstyles using flexi rods and by rollersetting.

Up Your Protective Styling Game

This is a great way to fight the urge to use heat on your hair... Braids, wigs and properly installed and maintained weaves can help you fight the heat urge and are also great for putting your hair away during the colder months, or when you simply want a new look. Of course take note: overdoing it with protective styling can also do more damage than good. Give your hair a break between styles, a few weeks or a month is usually good and means you can give your hair a good treating before your next protective style. Here is some inspiration from my good old transitioning days! [Creta Girl Wig], [Braids], [Lace Wig].

Just Too Many Opinions

Whilst my natural hair has been embraced by pretty much everyone in my social circle I know that this may not be the case for everyone. The comments and opinions of others can so easily alter our mindsets and have us forget what we know to be true. No one is to blame for this, it's simply a matter of taking charge and surrounding yourself with positivity and with people who can better help you achieve your "hair goals'. So block out the noise and get active on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook groups. The haircare community is huge and there is always someone that wants to have a good chit chat about their transition or natural hair experiences. Here are some of my favourite "haircare talk" spots: CareForYourHair , WITJ, Curlbox, Hairlista.

Get Ready To DIY

I'm a huge supporter of salons and stylists I really am, but one of the reasons for this and why most of my salon experiences end well is because I know my hair well enough and get quite vocal when someone else is looking after it. This has only backfired on me once! My point is try and get to know your hair before putting its care into someone else's hands. There aren't many stylists who are experienced in dealing with transitioning hair so it's best you get to know your hair before they 'attempt' to. Personal Tip: Youtube and haircare blogs are great places for haircare advice and tutorials.

The Three B's

Be Brave, Be Bold, Be Beautiful. The first step to successfully transitioning begins with a change of mind. How do you define beauty, is it solely external or internal, are celebrities your benchmark? I hate to get psychological on you but it's something worth thinking about. Transitioning is definitely a brave step, and not something that should be played down, stepping out of your comfort zone can be difficult but once you do and you overcome your stereotypes, only then can you move on to the second B… Be Bold. Now that you feel more confident about your decision to go natural embrace it and show it off, transitioners can have so much fun with hairstyling too! Don't believe me? See for yourself [1], [2], [3].  

Finally, be Beautiful. This one should be easy because no matter you think, it's what you are 'fearfully & wonderfully made'.

Love Always,
Fi

Facebook ❥ Youtube ❥ Twitter ❥ Tumblr ❥ Pinterest