New Braids, New Look

Blazer: Uniqlo // Shirt: Everlane // Belt: H&M // Pants: Zara // Hat: Target

I went home to Philadelphia last weekend to get my hair re-braided, and I'm so happy with the look! Anyone who has gotten braids before knows that it's a long process. The slightly thick braids I got took about ten hours to put in! I watched so much daytime TV that I was happy to come back to the quiet of my my cable-less Brooklyn apartment. So far everyone's been very complimentary, but I also have to tell people, once again, to NOT TOUCH MY HAIR. Yes, I know the braids are pretty and "fresh" looking, but please stop putting your grimy hands all over them.

My older sister braids my hair, and she gives me the family discount! Believe me, I'm grateful to pay $100 (or even less if I'm broke) to get a look that'd cost quite a bit more in the salon. These braids are called individuals. My sis used synthetic hair (#1b and #30) in order to burn the ends of the braids with a lighter so they won't unravel. Between flipping the lighter and braiding my sister's fingers were pretty raw and stiff by the end of the 10-hour session. I've been rocking micro braids for two years now as a protective style so my hair can grow, and while they're super sleek and sexy, I was ready for a change that was truer to my natural hair length. If you're curious, below is my natural hair in all its true glory!

I took my micro braids out on Thursday night, sported my natural hair for drinks with my friend that night, and then had my older sister re-braid my hair over the course of two days. (This piece of advice is very "Do as I say, not as I do," but if you have braids, I'd recommend letting your natural hair breathe and be free for a few days or even weeks before getting braids again.) In the middle of braiding I had to go support my momma at her concert in Philadelphia. She's part of a women's choir that advocates and supports social change. It was an inspiring concert, and it was really wonderful to see my mom on stage doing what she loves.

Top: AA // Skirt & Belt: Target

My hair was only halfway finished when I went the concert, so I stuck a scarf on it and hoped that no one noticed! I'm going to Governor's Ball this weekend (anyone else?) so expect a music-filled post next time. In the meantime, comment with any changes you're making to your hair for the summer! Happy Thursday!