How long have you been natural?
I’ve been natural for one year and five months.

Why did you decide to go natural?
I decided to go Natural because I was experiencing chemical damage/burns and thinning in the crown area.

How long did you transition?
I transitioned for eight-and-a-half months before I did the Big Chop.

What is your favorite style?
My favorite style is my Free Flowing “Twist Outs!”!

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?
My mother, my god sisters and my natural sistahs from our group on Facebook and our social website, Au Naturale Beauties!

What is the best thing about being natural to you?
The best thing about being natural is having the freedom to be versatile with my styles naturally! I don’t have to be concerned about my hair getting wet when it’s raining, and I have no worries when working out! It’s no sweat because I’m Au Naturale! It’s easier to manage, especially when I can wash-n-go! Being natural makes life easier and saves me time when preparing for my daily journey.

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?
While you’re transitioning, be patient, keep those ends trimmed and your hair moisturized! Using protective styles while transitioning works extremely well. I wore sew-ins and phony pony tails the majority of my transition period. It really worked well for me. However, please do what is best for you and your hair, and of course, have fun, make it interesting, take tons of pictures, record your journey, and enjoy!

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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How long have you been natural?
I’ve been natural since November 2009.

Why did you decide to go natural?
I decided to go natural because a lot of people were telling me that because of the texture of my hair, I didn’t need to get a relaxer, so I decided to try something different, especially because of the horror stories I heard of what relaxers do to your hair. I transitioned for almost a year; I did the big chop in October 2010.

What is your favorite style?
My favorite style would probably be the two-strand twists.

Do you have any hair inspirations, and if so, who?
Umm, no hair inspirations as of yet. I will say that this whole process has made me become fascinated with natural hair care and which organic products to use. Anytime I see someone with natural hair, I’m always talking to them about what products they use and how they are doing with taking care of their hair.

What’s the best thing about being natural to you?
The best thing about being natural is that before, when everyone would say that they felt so free, I never understood what they were talking about. Now, I do because I don’t worry so much about my hair. I used to be so serious about getting relaxers and making sure there was no new growth, but I’ve learned to embrace my naturally curly hair, and I love the look. I’m not going to lie; I also like the straight look, so I do still plan on straightening my hair every now and then, but I’m so proud of myself for stepping outside of my box and doing something different.

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?
The tips would be that if you are going to go natural, you can’t worry about bad hair days because you are definitely going to have awkward moments. Some days, when I would feel a mess, that’s when people would say the most “I love your hair.” You have to learn how to go with the flow, and just keep it moving.

I would also suggest transitioning to all natural products; sometimes, it takes trial and error because what’s good for one person’s hair might not be good for another, even if the products are natural.

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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How long have you been natural?
A year. October 12 is my one year anniversary.

Why did you decide to go natural?
It was a decision that I made on a whim really. I would only relax my hair four, maybe five times a year; usually, I would do it at the beginning of each season. My hair has always been long, thick and healthy, but I started to notice that after relaxing or getting a Dominican blowout, my hair started to get really limp. The straight/limp hair was not going to work for me, so after my last relaxer in October 2008, I said that was it– done for good with the creamy crack lol.

How long did you transition?
I started my transition immediately after the last relaxer (I dreaded getting it). I did several mini chops throughout the transition phase in which the last one was done on October 12, 2009.

What is your favorite style?
When I was transitioning, braid outs were my best friend. However, since being fully natural, I mostly do WNG (wash ‘n go). My hair is at that in between stage of not too short and not too long, so this works best for me at the moment.

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?
The fab Tracee Ellis Ross, Kelis and Fatima Siad.

What is the best thing about being natural to you?
I love the fact of being free to do exactly what I want without any restrictions– swim, workout, walk in the rain, whatever. My hair now is a true reflection of who I am, and I wear it on my sleeve proudly.

Any tips for transitioners or those new to natural?
Research and do more research as it only helps in the long run. I would spend hours on “YouTube,” “Fotki” and blogs reading about hair, products and maintenance. Last but not least, don’t give up, treat your hair with love and respect as the rewards in the end are priceless.

Check out Wendy’s blog, Sass ’n Curlz,  where she writes about her hair, fashion and everything in between.

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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How long have you been natural?
Since 1997.

Why did you decide to go natural?
I began to grow increasingly frustrated with the process of perming my hair, the expense of going to the salon and the overall European look of my hair that I no longer desired.

How long did you transition?
A few months, making gradual chops to my shoulder length hair.

What is your favorite style?
A natural shaved or low-cut.

Do you have any hair inspirations? If so, who?
I love women who rock natural fro’s and dreads!

What is the best thing about being natural to you?
I love being chemical-free and showing off my natural beauty.

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?
Transition at a pace that is comfortable for YOU! Chemical free is the only way to be!

P.S.- Check out Gina’s fab handmade jewelry and accessories at UrbanAdornments.com.

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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How long have you been natural?
I have been completely natural since October 4, 2009.

Why did you decide to go natural?
I decided to go natural because I was at a point in my life where I was going through a lot of changes, both physically and mentally. I needed some freedom, and what better way than the Natural Way? : – )

How long did you transition?
I only transitioned for six months. I was ready to see what my hair looked like without all the stringy, permed ends so I just had my friend chop it off, and I felt new.

What is your favorite style?
I’m still experimenting with styles, but the most common one for me is a simple wash-and-go with a headband. Now that it is beginning to grow, I am experimenting more with twists and twistouts which are very fun and funky.

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?
Hair inspirations…hmm, there are so many, but I got a lot of inspiration from other natural women on my campus; a couple have even been featured on the blog like Keilah Johnson and Brittany Boulware.

What is the best thing about being natural to you?
When you are doing something that seems out of the norm to most people, you are taking a big risk. The best thing about being natural is the pride I am able to have in myself knowing that I took that risk. My hair has sparked negative reactions as well as positive ones, but at the end of the day, the choice to become natural has allowed me to feel more comfortable, beautiful and confident with myself than ever before.

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?
The best tip I can give a transitioner is to stick with it and not to listen to the negative; just focus on the ultimate goal– Being Naturally Beautiful from head (literally) to toe.

P.S.- I’d really appreciate it if you nominated this blog for the Black Weblog Awards. The category to place it in is Blog to Watch and the URL is http://forcoloredgurls.com. You can vote by clicking here. Thank you for all your support! : )

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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How long have you been natural?

I have to stop and do the math because once the transitioning phase is over, all the months run together (lol). Surprisingly enough, it’ll be two years in December, so one year and five months.

Why did you decide to go natural?

I took out my 21st birthday sew-in, and my texture was amazing…I never saw/knew what my hair texture looked like because I got perms religiously enough to only see it super straight. Unfortunately, I had a hair appointment the next day and gave in, but even as I drove to their hair salon, unlike my past visits, I was skeptical about getting a perm because I loved the fullness of my hair; but because of fear and lack of knowledge on how to maintain natural hair, I went ahead and kept my appointment. After seeing the perm, heat and color damage (which was horrifying), I knew going natural would be the best step to take, and I haven’t looked back since.

How long did you transition?

The plan was to transition a full year so I could have a decent head of hair, but I got tired of the straight ends and did my BC (big chop) at eight months.

What is your favorite style?

I so love the fro-hawk! (lol) But on a daily basis, when in doubt, I whip out my handy-dandy bra strap and use it as a head band. If I’m feeling extra special, I might even add a pompadour.

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?

I don’t really have a hair inspiration, per se. When I was doing my research on natural hair, I came across Nappturality.com, and that’s really where the roots of my inspiration started. But I’m inspired by the natural people I come across daily basis. The natural hair community in Atlanta is simply amazing!

What is the best thing about being natural to you?

Wow, there are so many things that come to mind, but I’ll just list my top three reasons: 3. I can walk outside in the rain/wash my hair whenever I want (technically that’s two, so I cheated lol); 2. I can still be diverse and try different hair styles; 1. I’m finally comfortable in my own skin. I can’t keep my hands out of my hair. I love my kinks! It just feels so right to be Napptural ^_^

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?

Yes, I would say to those who are transitioning, if there are any doubts, don’t do it, wait it out because it is a commitment, and patience is definitely key/necessary. Do your research. Thankfully, we live in a society where knowledge is available at our fingertips. So Google, Google, Google, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. How else will you learn? There are plenty of natural hair forums and communities out there who are more than happy to lend you some tips, but keep in mind that just because the advisor may seem to have the same hair texture as you, that doesn’t mean their routine will work for you. It’s a process of elimination.

Find out what makes your hair happy, and together you’ll be the perfect team! I hope I’m not scaring anybody; I promise it’s not as hard as it sounds!

Also, a lot of people go in thinking they’re going to have Type 3 (aka “good hair”), but are disappointed when they find that this isn’t the case. Accept your texture, and realize that no matter what, your Napptural is beautiful because they are your God-given kinks.

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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How long have you been natural?

I have been natural for almost two years. My last relaxer was in December 2007, and I BC’ed [big chop for those who don't know] on July 15, 2008. It was quite liberating!

Why did you decide to go natural?

I decided to go natural because I have always had a love affair with natural hair. Even as a young child, I loved locs, twists and braids. I used to love to feel my curl pattern coming through after my relaxers were a few weeks old. The “aha” moment occurred for me when I read the book, “Plaited Glory” by Lonnice Brittenum-Bonner when I was around 11-years-old. After that, I knew that I would one day become a Napptural Beauty!

How long did you transition?

I transitioned for seven months (from December 2007 to July 2008). During that time, I wore my own relaxed hair in two-strand twists that I would wear curled or in up-dos.

What is your favorite style?

I have a two-part answer for my favorite style. My absolute favorite hairstyle would have to be locs! I LOVE THEM! They are so beautiful to me, and I’m currently in the process of locing my hair. But during the time I wore my hair [loose], it was definitely the braid-out.

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?

My hair inspirations are three women who have been a part of my life since I was young [and] who have never been afraid to let their natural beauty shine through. They are members of my church, they all have beautiful, natural hair, and they have encouraged me through every step of my natural journey. Melissa, Bahiya and Mrs. Holliday, thank you! Lonnice Brittenum-Bonner and her books also played a huge role in my decision to go natural.

What is the best thing about being natural to you?

To me, the best thing about being natural is the fact that the journey to becoming natural taught me so much about myself. There were days when I felt ugly because of my hair or lack there of, and it taught me to learn to love Brittany regardless of what I looked like. Much like India.Arie says in her song, “I Am Not My Hair,” I learned that I am NOT my hair or any other outside feature. I am truly the soul within. I love that I can share my own confidence with others, especially young women, [and] show them that it is okay to be the beautiful, natural woman that you were made to be.

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?

My tips for transitioners and new naturals [is] to stick with it. I know a lot of people attempt to go natural, but quit before they get there. I know what it feels like to not want to go outside for fear of ridicule or never want to take your hat off, but don’t let frustration or fear keep you from achieving your goal. Also, find a group of natural women/people to support you. Many transitioners receive ridicule from their non-natural family members or friends, and that is not what you need during that time. There are other people who would love to encourage you along the way. Find them and keep them close to you.

Jamie Fleming-Dixon

Jamie Fleming-Dixon is the founder and author of ForColoredGurls.com. Her intention is to empower readers, inspire them to live their most fabulous lives and to motivate them to reach for their dreams and goals. This is done through motivational articles and quotes, interviews with women from all walks of life, posts on topics that affect every area of women's lives and more. For more info about Jamie and FCG, email her at info@forcoloredgurls.com.

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Why did you decide to go natural?

My hair was overprocessed, and it was falling out. I never intended to stay natural, I just wanted to give my hair a “rest” from all the damage. This is something that I had been going through since I was about seven-years-old, I have very thick hair, coarse hair, and I was always told that my hair needed the super strength perm. It would become overprocessed and begin to fall out; I would wear a protective style (braids, weaves) [and] my hair would grow back, and I would start the vicious cycle all over again.

One day after removing my weave in preparation to put another one in, I looked in the mirror and said, “Why do you keep doing this?” It was because I thought I had to in order to be beautiful, professional, feminine, acceptable. I didn’t think there was any other way. That day, I decide to wear my natural hair to see what would happen. I went out with my girlfriends that night wearing my Afro. I was pleasantly surprised at the response that I got, especially from the opposite sex: My afro was a man magnet! Lol!

How long did you transition?

Well, I never had a real transition; I just woke up and did it.

What is your favorite style?

A braidout.

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?

Gosh, so many! The model, Narissa Kamoy, Taasili Maat, T’Keya Crystal Kemyah, Mirelle Long- A- Kong, Patricia “DeeCoily” Gains, and there are soooo many ladies on Nappturality that keep me inspired.

What is the best thing about being natural to you?

FREEDOM! Ever since I was a little girl, there has been so much time and energy spent in trying to keep my hair straight. Now I can do whatever I like without having to worry about sweating my hair out.

Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?

BE PATIENT and utilize online resources such as Nappturality and Going-Natural. People will make negative comments, remember that most of the time that it’s their own insecurities that they are projecting on to you. Experiment with different styles, hair adornments and headwraps. Enjoy yourself!

Follow Jameelah on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Nappilocs

Jamie Fleming

How long have you been natural?

I have been natural for about 12 years, but loced about six years ago.

Why did you decide to go natural?

My family has a history of thinning hair, so I decided I had better get ahead of the game and just go natural. I am a cosmetologist (20 years), and it started out as just something different to do. Since I had had every style in the world, it seemed natural to just give my hair a break.

How long did you transition?

Actually, I just cut it very short, and let it go, so the transition to natural wasn’t long. During the six years of being natural without locs, I would just wear it curly. I would press it, and it was to the middle of my back. When I started locing it, I started out with the double-strand twists because of the length. Everyone kept telling me I would have to cut it, but that is not necessary unless you have a relaxer or something. However, my hair is very slick, which made the locing process long. They kept coming undone when I would wash them, so I tied small knots at the ends. I love color, so the bleaching process dried them out enough to where they began to lock. This is what they looked like about eight months into locking:

They shrunk considerably, but I loved this length actually. I didn’t appreciate it when they were short because I was always looking at other people’s who were long, and they could do all sorts of styles with them. After mine grew down my back, I realized how much responsibility came with the upkeep and learned that, as with life, to be grateful for what I have and where I am because every stage has its pros and cons.

What is your favorite style?

I don’t have a favorite style. It just depends on what I am feeling. [Recently], I [had] them braided up, waiting to be taken down into a crinkle wave pattern.

Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?

I love mature  locs such as Toni Morrison and Alice Walker. Their locs tell such stories.

Candi also runs a website, Single Mama Diva, which gives lots of helpful info and resources for single parents. Check it out by clicking here.

Jamie Fleming

A licensed psychotherapist by day and natural hair guru by night, Curly Nikki created her natural hair site with the purpose of inspiring, educating and motivating people to wear their hair naturally, whether curly, kinky or wavy.

Curlynikki.com serves as an educational tool and a platform for everyone to share their experiences, frustrations and triumphs of being Naturally Glamorous. She approaches the topic of natural hair differently than most.

“It is neither a political statement, nor a ‘back to nature’ movement,” she writes on her website. “It’s simply one part of a fabulous healthier lifestyle…an extension of your beauty. Making natural hair chic is the name of the game.”

In addition to her other roles, Curly Nikki is a wife, daughter, sister, friend, spokesmodel and natural hair consultant. Her website features other curly heads and their journeys, product reviews, a forum, hair how-tos and lots more.

Check out her website here.

And as she says, “If you’re not feeling your hair, you’re not feeling yourself.”

Photo from tyrashow.warnerbros.com.

Jamie Fleming