Isn’t just amazing how we come in so many shades with a wide array of hair textures? There truly is beauty in variety! Welp, we’re back with yet another fashionable natural sharing her hair journey and a peek into her eclectic style! Meet our February Natural Fashionista, Charmsie!
My name is Charmaine Daudu. I am from Toronto, Canada, currently residing in Atlanta, Georgia. I work in the corporate apparel industry and I enjoy vlogging/blogging in my spare time. I am passionate about fashion and making women feel good about themselves.
How long have you been wearing your hair in its natural state?
I have always been natural, however, I really only understood my curl pattern about six years ago after discovering the natural hair community on YouTube.
What do you love about having naturally curly-textured hair? Have you faced any challenges along the way?
I love the personality it brings to any look. I think of my curly hair as my favourite accessory. My only challenges have been giving it the best attention it requires. In the past, I would experiment with dye and cut it very often out of boredom at times. I have now learned that the less I do to my hair, the better it looks.
Briefly tell us about your hair care routine and favorite style(s).
I wear my hair in a wash & go a lot. I typically co-wash my hair in the morning and let it air dry. At least once a week, I do a deep treatment on my hair overnight. When my hair is not in a wash & go, it may be in a pineapple style or a sleek bun. I have also started playing with wigs when I feel like a change.
What is one major thing you have learned throughout your natural hair journey?
Less is more. I got so caught up in finding new products and trying new things in the beginning and now I realize that some of my best hair days are the days that I leave my hair without any product at all.
Do you think embracing your natural has changed your overall style or have you remained consistent over the years?
I wore my hair slicked back for many years or the “wet look”/curly hair look. Finally embracing my true texture, frizz and all, in more recent years, has just complimented my style and personality completely. I look like my true self now, rather than a toned-down version.
How would you describe your personal style? Who or what are your inspirations?
My style is definitely eclectic. I would say that I am inspired by different eras and cultures vs. actual people.
Name one piece you own that you just couldn’t live without!
Picking one piece is very hard! I would say for sentimental reasons, a sequined top that belonged to my grandmother that she gave me in recent years. I always stared at it in awe when I visited her in Barbados. It was a piece she got on a trip to NYC in the 80s and it’s gorgeous. She smiles every time I send her pics in it.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
I am really into online shopping. The only stores I truly enjoy going into are thrift stores (I’m not picky…value village, goodwill, anywhere is good). For online shopping, I love Asos, Zara, River Island, Missguided, and Ebay.
Please offer some fashion tips and/or words of advice for those who are newly natural.
Try not to be a copy of anyone else. It’s great to look at others for inspiration, but remember to stay true to your comfort levels and personality. We look our best when we are ourselves. This advice applies to hair and fashion!
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I LOVE your final statement, Charmsie! That’s something I’ve been preaching for quite a while. Thank you so much for sharing your hair story and a little look into your style!
Keep up with Charmsie by visiting her on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.
xoxo
Toia B.
