If you think natural hair is not office-appropriate or that you’re limited to a simple bun at the workplace, please, pull up a chair and take note! This naturalista proves every day that you can be just as professional as the next gal all while fiercely rockin’ your natural mane in a variety of fun ways. It was a must that I reach out to this corporate beauty for a feature!
Let’s meet our first Natural Fashionista of autumn…
My name is Mimi Irvin “aka” Corporate Chic. I am a wife, mother of two handsome boys, daughter, friend, and have been told, a fashionista. My day job consists of a career as a Project Engineer working in Corporate America with a degree in Electrical Engineering.
Have you always worn your hair in its natural state? If not, how long have you been rocking your natural and what made you decide to go back to doing so?
No, I contemplated the idea of going natural in early 2011 and although I loved the relaxed looked and didn’t suffer from breakage, I wanted something different. I was sent forth to go on assignment in the Netherlands with my company in January 2012, so I decided December 2011 would be my last relaxer. I wouldn’t have to worry about the Texas humidity and I felt the transition would be easier to deal with in cooler temperatures. As I tried many styles as I could during my transition, 8 months would be the end of that road. I decided to do my BC August 2012. As I sat in the mirror cutting each section it was very hard to get through. I had about 3 inches of new growth but after completing that hard effort, I looked in the mirror and said yes this is ME and I will ROCK it.
What do you love most about being a natural girl? Have you faced any challenges along the way?
I love the versatility, it’s AMAZING. I honestly haven’t faced any challenges from outsiders. The only challenge is from myself, especially on days when I don’t feel like doing it!
Tell us about your weekly hair care routine.
If my hair is not twisted, I typically I will pin it up at night and sleep in satin bonnet. In the mornings I will spritz with water, add Coconut oil or shea butter and style in an up-do or wear loose.
Currently I am using Cantu Natural Hair Collection: www.cantubeauty.com
- Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo
- Sulfate-Free Hydrating Cream Conditioner
- Deep Treatment Masque Conditioner
- Coconut Milk Shine & Hold Mist
- Coconut curling cream
I am very pleased with the response from my hair. It’s well moisturized and soft.
Other products I use from time to time are:
- Auntie Jackie’s Curl La La Defining Custard – www.auntjackiescurlsandcoils
- Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner – www.sheamoisture.com
- Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque
From fluffy fros to chic updos, your hair always seems to perfectly complement your outfit. Is that purely a beautiful coincidence or do you allow your ensemble to determine the final ‘do?
Thank you. I believe confidence is part of it, but overall my hair helps shape the outfit. That is actually how I determine what I will wear in the mornings.
How would you describe your personal style?
In three words I would describe my style as Unique, Edgy, and Sophisticated.
Many women in the corporate arena find it hard to really express their style while staying within the bounds of what’s “acceptable” at the office. How do you manage to do it so well?
It didn’t always start off this way, but over time, it came with confidence within myself. Once you have that, the rest will follow. Be sure to maintain your professionalism while showing your uniqueness as well.
What is one staple item that you believe every woman should own?
A crisp white blouse, I heard Oprah mention that. It can make any look fabulous!
I love that you encourage women to “shop smart”. Where do you find the best bargains?
Before I found my Instagram treasure finds, I would shop my local shops in Houston Texas, (I still do shop my local shops) Buffalo Exchange, Taxi Taxi Montrose, Leopard Lounge.
Some of my favorite IG Resale shops are: @vintagewhimsy, @kirasvintage, @angelscloset4, @angelsvintageboutique, @youreahanger and many others. I tag all IG sites that I feature, so be sure to check out my page.
Please share some words of wisdom for those looking to define their style on a budget and perhaps a word of advice for our newbie naturals.
The first advice that I would give to the “fashionista next door” is to cultivate your self-confidence. As a fashionista with a unique sense of style, I have learned that self-confidence is so important. Your acceptance of you matters more than anything or anyone in this fashion industry. Secondly, I would advise to be consistent. No matter the situation, a true fashionista can wear jeans and dress it up with accessories, heels, and fabulous hair and ROCK the room.
And for the newbie naturals, embrace your OWN natural curls and don’t caught up with trying to get your hair like everybody else’s. You have to find what works for you. It’s definitely good to get insight especially from YouTube (bloggers and vloggers) or from your girls that maybe on the journey with you, but just don’t get discouraged.
Tell the folks where they can find you online!
Blog | Facebook | Instagram- @officialcorporatechic | YouTube | Email- meyelabel@gmail.com
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Awesome advice Mimi! Thank you so much for sharing your style and hair story with us!
Ladies, be sure to follow Mimi for chic work wear inspiration as well as creative hair styling ideas.
xoxo
Toia B.
