Ouidad: The Curl Experts

Welcome to New York City, the capital of fashion and style. Just do what they tell you and wear what the fashion world announces as “the” look of the season which often includes straightening your hair.

Then what happens my curly, wavy fashionista? Where is that special feeling you get when someone admires your beautiful hair, or compliments your curls, or praises your gorgeous waves? Do you look like everyone else? Do you notice everyone looking like everyone else? Oh, you may go “straight” for a day but…..there’s always the stunning curly haired real you waiting to return.

Let’s face it, everyone is looking over their shoulder for the look that’s “it” which is unfortunate because the true fashion leaders are busy creating from their own passion, intuition and proud heart. They have self-respect, they honor their personal taste and are fiercely committed to what they love. They’re busy showing off their talent vs. trying to change themselves based on someone else’s vision.

You should take care of what is important to you.  Polish what is beautiful about you and flaunt  it.

At the salon last week, I got another anniversary notice. My client informed me that I’ve been styling her hair for eight years!  Six years ago I styled her wedding curls and now she’s asking about her little girl’s curls! She laughed and said that her daughter wouldn’t have to go through the “nightmare curls” that her own mother knew nothing about.

What a validation…..to make such a beautiful difference in someone’s life and to see it transform the next generation. Wow!

Vincent, Stylist,  57th Street Salon, NYC

Many of my clients have been noting how fast this year has gone by. Nostalgia adds to our thoughts and feelings at this time of year.  This was my first Christmas without Mom. What matters most are those moments with ones dear to our hearts. I have been at my client’s personal service for years, and those close to my hairstyling station know how personal I can be. My clients come to me for issues close to their hearts…how their hair looks and feels.

At Ouidad we talk about creating out of Natural beauty…discovering your own beautiful curls and waves. But this is New York City, fashion capital. So where does it take us….natural anything? A stylist friend of mine loves his mantra…”natural is boring.” But is freedom boring? While we travel, buy, hustle, search “for what’s really it” – whose agenda are we following anyway?

The first thing my swirling haired consultations want, let me repeat…the first thing they ask, inform, demand…is fast. Fast. Yes, they haven’t mentioned their curls but “no time to spend,” “It’s got to be fast,” “I don’t want anything that takes time,” etc. My clients are asking for freedom to have life their way. Working all day and then taking care of family…..who’s taking care of our women?

Priorities can simplify and liberate. Whatever you give your attention to will take or give you power. We can’t do it all, but instead pick what matters most and make sure we enjoy it. Doing what you love is freedom and time no longer is an issue.

Look for what’s next for you… what do you want?  Never mind what you need.  What gives that woman in the mirror the freedom to do, to be? My Mom left everything, there was nothing more to give. I am here to give back to the woman sitting in my chair everything she needs to make this world her own. So this coming year, Rosita’s son will know another powerful woman is making her way through the chaos into her vision.   Let’s not have it all…just what you want.

Vincent, Stylist,  57th Street Salon, NYC

Given the huge diversity of curl patterns and textures, Ouidad tells us that finding the right products for your specific curly needs is paramount. When you’re a mom with a KRYL kid whose curly hair type does not match your own – understanding how to care for their delicate curls can be particularly challenging.

That’s why Ouidad created this new video “How Do I Tame My Kids’ Curls?” The Queen of Curls shows moms and kids how to care for their curls with confidence, not confusion! This great step-by-step demo features Ouidad and her expert stylists who bring new life to delicate curls, putting the Krly Kids Collection and her signature Rake n’ Shake method to work!