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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