Kari’s Natural Hair Journey: Finding Hair-spiration

Compensation was provided by Target via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author, Kari Herrera, and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Target.

I’m very excited to continue our partnership with Target Style. This month, we are sticking with the theme of hair but moving from the topic of heritage to inspiration. So, where do you find your hair-spiration?

This is the fifth article of the series Kari’s Natural Hair Story. For other articles in this series, click here.

Inspired by the beautiful curls of Afrobella

I like to think of my hair as a prime instrument in my cosmetic toolbox, similar to lipstick and eyeshadow. I couldn’t choose just one shade of lipstick to wear every day for the rest of my life. Likewise, I refuse to be tied to one hairstyle. Switching it up, sometimes drastically, is fun!

As mentioned before, I’m wearing my natural hair short these days. Since writing that, however, I’ve had a change of heart. I’ve decided that keeping my ends nice and neat matters more to me than preserving a short style. So, my goal through fall and winter is now to protect my hair and to keep every strand moisturized and healthy, from root to tip. To accomplish this, I’ll depend on silk scarfs under cozy hats (never allowing wool to touch my hair), full units, hair extensions, and, of course, quality hair creams.

Inspired by a protective style found on BGLH

Camille Rose Naturals

Recently, I discovered a new line of natural hair care products that I’m absolutely loving! The name is Camille Rose Naturals and I’m currently testing out their Curl Maker and Curl Love. The first is a jelly that promises to eliminate frizz, moisturize and define curls. I use this product whenever I’m wearing my natural hair. Curl Love is a cream made of milk, oils, and butters. I use this under any caps and to keep my hair soft in between washes.

I’ve been through a lot of products lately, I know. When I finally settle on a winning combination, I’ll be sure to share which products have truly stood the test of time.

Finding Natural Hair Inspiration

Thank goodness I live in Chicago – the birthplace of hair gurus Ms. Vaughn, BGLH, and Afrobella! Whenever I’m in a style rut, I just turn to these women for a little hair-spiration. They never disappoint!

Inspired by an early look from Ms. Vaughn

Ms. Vaughn is Chicago’s natural hair vlogging princess. She churns out useful beauty and hair tips via her YouTube channel, MsVaughnTV. I love how frank and open she is about what works for her and what hasn’t. Plus, she recreates celebrity hairstyles and breaks down the steps so that viewers can achieve the style at home. Watch her journey from TWA to full out ‘fro!

BGLH is a community website for kinky haired girls. It debunks the myth that certain hair textures can’t grow long and healthy. Readers share their own experiences, offer style tips, and articles are published regularly by curly girls from around the world.

Chicago’s Afrobella is called the Godmother of brown beauty blogging. Her website offers tips on how to recreate red carpet looks, which cosmetics work best on brown skin, and how to properly care for and celebrate our hair. She often shares personal experiences and anecdotes from her family and friends.

These women inspire me to push the limit when it comes to style. How about you? Where do you find hair-spiration?

Find your style @TargetStyle!