Willow Smith Debuts New Bald Look

Posted on February 6, 2012 by Serena

Willow Smith is no stranger to bold hairstyles, but her newly cropped hair may be her most daring style yet.

The “Whip My Hair” star posted a few photos of her hair transformation on her WhoSay account, but this isn’t the first time Willow has made a dramatic hair change. When Willow was nine years old, she cut her hair into a half-shaven style.

Willow’s mom Jada Pinkett Smith said, “I’ll never forget her sitting in that chair and watching that hair fall off. She transformed right before my eyes and I was like, ‘Oh my goodness,’” said Jada. “For Willow to stand there and say, ‘I’m Willow Smith and this is me,’ what more could you give a little girl? And I learned that lesson from my mother, because that’s what she gave me.”

What are your thoughts about Willow’s new ‘do? Share them in the comments section!

Source: Essence
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Octavia Spencer ‘Triple-Spanxed’ for the SAGs

Posted on February 1, 2012 by Serena

Octavia Spencer dazzled at the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, but the actress admits that slipping into her Tadashi Shoji gown took a little extra work.

“I was not a Girl Scout, but I tried to be very prepared,” she joked on the Ellen DeGeneres Show today. “I triple-Spanxed, which is not good. Spanx really, really work, but you don’t need to overdo it.”

Watch the clip below to hear more about Spencer’s Spanx-ing.  Then tell us: Do you wear Spanx under your special-occasion dresses and church suits?

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Legendary Singer Etta James Dies at Age 73

Posted on January 20, 2012 by Serena

Etta James, the legendary blues and soul singer, lost her battle with leukemia today, passing away at the age of 73, reports CNN.

She was best known for her 1961 hit song, “At Last,” which earned her a spot in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.

“This is a tremendous loss for the family, her friends and fans around the world,” said longtime manager Lupe De Leon, who confirmed the news to CNN. “She was a true original who could sing it all – her music defied category. I worked with Etta for over 30 years. She was my friend and I will miss her always.”

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Stylist Ted Gibson’s Fall Hair Do’s and Don’ts

Posted on November 7, 2011 by Serena

Image Courtesy of WireImage

On What Not to Wear, hair stylist extraordinaire Ted Gibson helps women transform themselves through new haircuts and colors. And now, the stylist who’s worked with A-list celebs like Angelina Jolie and Zoe Saldana shares his hair do’s and don’ts for fall.

Do:
–Darken your do. “I always say women should change their color at least twice a year,” he says. “During the spring and summer make it lighter, and in the fall, change it to darker tones.”

–Go short … but not too short. “I think shorter hair is great,” Gibson says, “but mid-length hair is really sexy right now.”

–Try the new ombré. “We’re taking ombré to a new level,” Gibson explains. “It’s not necessarily brown with highlighted ends — it can be brown with pink, brown with a little beige on the ends, brown with blue.”  To that end, the stylist suggests dip-dying — “as long as it’s age appropriate,” he warns — or adding colored extensions to hair for a temporary fix.

Don’t:
–Let age define your look. “I say break the rules — just because you’re of a certain age doesn’t mean you need to have shorter hair,” Gibson says. But maintain that hair health: get a haircut every four to six weeks and use a deep conditioner on a regular basis.

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Scarves Are the New ‘It’ Hair Accessory

Posted on October 21, 2011 by Serena

It looks like I might have to retract one of my previous posts from earlier this year, “This Summer’s Hottest Hair Accessory: The Headwrap.”  Summer is officially over and the scarf trend isn’t slowing down! Celebrities like Rihanna, Angela Basset and Nicki Minai have all recently worn the look.

I’d love to hear what you think about the scarf phenomena (post your thoughts in the comment section below)! I’m personally in love with Rihanna’s look! The simple addition of the handkerchief really transformed her curly, messy updo. And is anyone else shocked to see Nicki’s wig covered by a scarf?! I sure was.

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Wig vs. Weave: Which Is Best For You?

Posted on October 12, 2011 by Serena

The title of this post explains it all.  Essence.com did a great job breaking it down.  After reading their thoughts, leave yours in the comment section below!

What are the pros of wearing a weave?

“You can change your style instantly, without cutting your hair or growing it out. Weaves also protect your natural hair, giving it a break from heat. Plus, they’re great if you workout a lot.”

What are the cons of wearing a weave?

“Three things: Improper application (like braiding hair too tight) can lead to hair loss; they can be costly to install and maintain; and if you use inferior hair, it can tangle, shed, or look unnatural.”

What are the pros of wearing a wig?

“You can change your color and style instantly without sitting in a salon for hours or dealing with the long-term commitment of a weave! Also, they’re easy to care for and maintain.”

What are the cons of wearing a wig?

“Synthetic wigs don’t last long and human hair ones are costly. Also, if your wig isn’t cut and styled to fit you, it can look unnatural. Plus, wigs can be hot and uncomfortable in the summertime!”

*Serena’s note: I suggest replacing your synthetic wig every 3 months*

What makes modern wigs so fab (ie, not fumpy or grandma-ish)?

“Lace wigs changed the game! They’re light, breathable and can be worn up to one month. And you can wear updos or ponies, like the hair’s growing from the scalp.”

What constitutes a good weave?

“First, the foundation (your braids) should always be flat. The weave should be 100% natural, and the placement, color and texture should match your natural hair. A great cut is icing on top!”

What constitutes a bad weave?

“A weave is bad if its lumpy, the color and texture don’t blend with your natural hair, or if the extension is bad quality or synthetic. And you shouldn’t need to take an aspirin after its installed!”

Wigs best suit what kind of lifestyle?

“They suit any lifestyle, but a lace wig requires a lace adhesive, which wouldn’t be great for someone who works out everyday. She’d do better with a half-wig or glue-less lace wig with clips.”

Weaves best suit what kind of lifestyle?

“Weaves are great if you’re looking for long-term hair commitment, or if you want to give your natural hair a break. Also, they’re a great option if you have an active lifestyle.”

(Source:  Essence.com)

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Another Brand Hits Especially Yours!

Posted on September 2, 2011 by Serena

Especially Yours’ is all about New York lately.  Last month, we added Harlem 125 to our site.  This month we’re introducing Manhattan Style!

Get inspired by one of these great looks!

If you’re looking for a modern and trendy style, the Lydia Wig (shown left) is perfect for you.  This style is layered for movement with flipped ends in the back. Its side part and side-swept bangs graze brows and are flattering and flirty. Another plus is that it’s a great look for many face shapes!

If you’re looking for a style with some flair and spunk, the Dream Wig (shown right) has your name all over it! This cut has shorter sides and a longer top for a more modern silhouette. You can wear this look with short face-framing bangs or you can even brush the top forward for a fuller bang look. It’s a versatile, flattering style – a must-have addition to your fall hair style wardrobe.

If you’re looking for a style with the classic charm, the HH Maya Human Hair Wig (shown left) will do the trick! This style has just the right amount of layering to keep the look full and the silhouette smooth.  Its side-parted bangs frame your face and the side pieces will accentuate your cheekbones. The extra layering is perfect for anyone looking to add height. With 100% human hair, the most beautiful choice for a natural look and feel you can’t go wrong!

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Rihanna Does Her ‘Do Again

Posted on August 21, 2011 by Serena

Rihanna’s hair stylist, Ursula Stephens is definitely earning her paycheck! Rihanna has once again changed her mane!  This time – I’m at a loss for words (and I’m never quiet).  Her new color – a honey-streaked auburn brown is perfect for fall.  Just take a look below and tell me what you think?!

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Harlem 125 Styles Added to EspeciallyYours.com

Posted on August 2, 2011 by Serena

The month long wait is finally over.  Harlem 125 styles are now on EspeciallyYours.com!

Which style suits you best?


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Sneak Peek of Harlem 125

Posted on July 28, 2011 by Serena

Nancy (L) & Pia (R)

The official site launch of Harlem 125 is Tuesday, August 2nd – one week before the Especially Yours’ catalog begins to arrive in your mailboxes. But to hold you over until then, here is a special sneak peek of some upcoming styles!

Kim

The Kim Wig (shown left) is a part of Harlem 125′s new “Air Collection”.  The Air Collection is 27% lighter than standard wigs.  It is also easy to style- no comb, no brush…no problem! Just use your fingers.

Let’s not forget 3 new “Lace Down” synthetic styles.  They feature uniquely designed lace netting that gives a natural hairline.

Can’t get enough Harlem 125? Visit our Facebook page for more photos!

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