Spell Magazine Winter edition 2024

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Sarah-Jane Crawford The champion crusader for clean curl living

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Contents

36 Emotional beauty

04 S coop Meet the beauty disruptor behind The Beauty Edit Mayfair 05 Ed’s picks Spell editor shares stand-out launches

06 Who to follow Social media star accounts n our radar 08 O Coveted hair trends for 2024 10 Power dressing Dress for success essentials verything you need for menopause 16 E Personalise your journey with our list of tailored brands 20 Coming clean Spell meets Sarah-Jane Crawford

08 On our radar

04 Scoop

26 Spell loves The product junkie page

20 Coming clean

28 The 30+inches phenomenon Why black women are loving long hair right now 32 The miseducation of curls Hair educator Jennie Roberts addresses hair discrimination and more 36 Emotional Beauty – is it worth it?

Improve your mental health with skincare ositive moves to a better you 40 P Dance your way to self-confidence pell meets 42 S Not-to-missed interviews

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40 Positive moves to a better you

Sarah-Jane Crawford The champion crusader for clean curl living

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spellmagazine.co.uk

EDITOR Jemima Cousins EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Georgia-Rose Leon WRITER Jennifer Meredith DESIGNER Rob Wheele

FIND US ONLINE 10 Power dressing

COVER OF SARAH-JANE CRAWFORD FULL CREDITS INSIDE BACK COVER

@spellmagazine E: editorial@spellmagazine.com

© 2024 Feme Ltd. Reproduction of the contents of Spell Magazine in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are the author’s own, and may not reflect the views and opinions of Feme Ltd.

P O SCO Bulletin with

all the indust

ry goss!

Inside Beauty Edit Mayfair, the shopping destination for clean beauty

Interview

From 5am starts to facing rejection; ironically there are privileges to being your own boss

BEHIND THE BRAND

BEAUTY EDIT MAYFAIR As the mastermind behind London's luxury boutique Beauty Edit Mayfair, a clean beauty concept store, Sherrille Riley has achieved an exceptional career, solidifying her position as a leading authority in the professional beauty industry, but that hasn’t come without some challenges.

Read the full interview at spellmagazine.com

“Growing up in Jamaica, I witnessed the devastating effects of mindless consumerism, which has inspired my ongoing commitment to creating a shopping experience, demonstrating that one can be both effective and environmentally mindful in today’s world. I have curated Beauty Edit Mayfair to be a luxurious sanctuary for beauty enthusiasts to not only explore the latest trends, but also discover an array of cosmetics, essential body care products, and innovative sun care solutions that will leave them feeling inspired.

“My typical day begins at 5am. Since 2014, when I launched my first business Nails & Brows, I've adopted the habit of being an early bird. I start my day with a soothing cup of hot water, followed by a brief 5minute meditation to SPELL

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set my intentions for the day ahead.

“Being my own boss comes with great privileges and responsibilities which means I get to sit at the table and take charge of my career and enable others to progress without limitation of discrimination. I have observed at times that my achievements have been overlooked by some media professionals, but I remain focused on my team and customers as this gives me great satisfaction.

“The highlight of my career has been opening Nails & Brows.

After many years of training and working in some of London’s most prestigious beauty salons, to take the plunge and create my own salon for clients to come and enjoy an indulgent beauty treatment, really was a career highlight. I had to learn fast with regards to

how to promote myself and innovate, all whilst delivering top-notch customer care. It came with great challenges, and a LOT of learning, but the rewards were great, and this inspired me to continue. I was also nominated by one of my clients to attend a reception hosted by King Charles at Buckingham Palace in recognition of my contributions to the economy and the community we serve which really was a special milestone.

"We have an all-female team of 22 which represents 16 flags.

I feel incredibly lucky to have such a diverse team that contributes to each other with genuine care and passion. Each team member has been carefully chosen based on skills, work ethic and knowledge. We are very passionate about training and sharing knowledge to educate and inspire, ensuring that everyone knows their worth."

The

SPELL-OMETER What’s hot and what’s not in the world of Spell

HOT

STRAND TO ATTENTION The ‘tendy’ is the 2000s hair trend with a modern upgrade - a single tendril (instead of a pair) hanging asymmetrically from an up-do.

NOT

THE ‘PAND EMIC ‘PANDEMIC SKIP’ SKI P’ Research shows women who were in their mid-twenties during the pandemic are facing undue pressure to start a family, while having missed out on crucial self-development.

SPELL SPotlight Spell Magazine editor Jemima Cousins shares what’s landed on the Spell beauty desk Scalp care is the bedrock to every healthy hair journey, and as someone blighted by cradle cap (yes, in my big age), I’m always on a mission for the next topical treatment. Shortlisted so far is 1. Camille Rose Strengthening Hair & Scalp Drops, £12.99.

Scatter a few drops around the scalp or on troubled areas – mine is the hairline – and rub in using the balls of your fingertips for maximum absorption. It makes a trusty addition to washdays or prepping the hair for a long stretch of braids.

4

1 2

3

5

DOT TO DOT Add microdots to your lower lash line á la Yara Shahidi’s makeup artist, Nikki Makeup, for a fresh liner look.

AWARD SEASON Who said party season was over? This year’s red carpet looks have us itching to recreate our own version of Hollywood glamour.

BRUSH UP That gross build-up of product, oil and dust on the bristles of your hairbrush has a name: ‘grey fuzzies’. But it’s not as cute as it sounds. Time to clean your hair tools?

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Shopping vegan make-up is becoming easier by the day. 2. By Terry Ligne Blackstar, £29 liquid pen eyeliner is enriched with high-purity carbon black pigments making a single stroke visible and dramatic.

Other premium options to add to your cart include 3. Haus Labs Bio-Radiant Gel Powder Highlighter, £41 and 4. Pixi +Hydra LipTreats, £8 (available February).

PACK IT IN Balenciaga’s Summer ‘24 collection sees the return of the controversial Chip Bag. Crisps not included.

And with snug season upon on us – translation for “It’s freezing out here!”, that calls for some essential cosy items. I love the monochromatic pieces by menswear label 5. Brvn by Bravian, prices start from £151. For warm nights in, I recommend 6. The Feme Collection Satin Sleeping Mask & Pillowcase, £13; 7. Vyrao Verdent Incense, £35 and 8. JK Cartoon Socks £10.

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Street Greets sums up their greeting cards as “Terms of endearment that you may say but won’t really see in the high street shops”. This independent brand personifies black British vernacular at its best with its vibrant designs and tongue-in-cheek slogans. Browse this account to find greeting cards that your loved ones will actually appreciate!

@wokebabies

@veganzinga

@streetgreets

Street Greets

Nzinga Young

Looking for vegan inspiration that’s more than just food pics? New York City-based influencer Nzinga Young, who describes herself as “very vegan”, curates easy and super flavourful plant-based recipes, fashion and beauty essentials, and urban grub hotspots on her aesthetically-pleasing grid.

Woke Babies

On the search for children’s books featuring characters that look like you and your family? With fans including Vanessa Williams, the Woke Babies subscription box was designed with this in mind, providing uplifting books recommendations and fun everyday activities that families across the globe can appreciate.

WHO to follow

Planet Fantastique

Welcome to Planet Fantastique, a utopia created by AI artist Sienna O’Rourke. At first glance, this account appears to be a collection of quirky vintage photos, as those telltale AI features (like extra fingers) are notably absent. But as you scroll further, it’s easy to get lost in this convincing world of retro pastels!

@thegoodquote

@lydiaandalma

@planet_fantastique

Jaded by the same old posts on the ‘Gram? Freshen up your feed with these follow-worthy accounts

Lydia and Alma

You might have already spotted sisters Lydia and Alma taking street style snaps at London’s hottest haunts.

This influential pair is taking Instagram by storm for their stand-out style and lengthy natural ‘Fros! Follow for fashion inspiration and fluffy ‘Fro tutorials and check out our interview with the duo at spellmagazine.co.uk

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@thegoodquote

Start your day with a dose of positivity, a pearl of wisdom or a touching sentiment with @thegoodquote.

Having first posted in 2011, this account is a titan of the Instagram realm – and it’s not going anywhere.

13 years later, its daily posts appear on the feeds of its 24.5 million followers (and it’s on Threads, too)!

THE SPACE CURATED FOR YOU

DON’T MISS OUT! Subscribe today & get free delivery Tune in to the latest news, views and trends from the world of hair and beauty. Head over to spellmagazine.co.uk and spellbeauty.com to sign up to our annual subscription.

On our radar Photography by Femelle Studios. Hair by Kevin Shanti and Sabine Clough for Spell Beauty.

Make-up by Natasha Wright. Styling by Nicole Ranger. Art directing by Jemima Cousins.

The hair trends taking over the style scene this season

FRENCH DRESSING Give your braids some extra ‘ooh la la’ with the fashion-ready French curl.

Characterised by clean parts, slim strands, and voluminous, curled ends, sign up to the look using the new Urban French Curl.

Urban French Curl, £11.99; Baby Tress Edge Styler, £7.99; Cantu Protective Styling Braiding and Twisting Gel, £6.99; Briogeo Destined for Density MegaStength+ Serum, £48

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GET YOUR KINKS Textured hair is a big flex – why? Because you can customise natural styles to your whims.

To curate wigs, lengthy crochet ‘fros, faux locs and technical braids, choose bulk hair like the iconic Soft N’ Silky Afro Twist Braid available in classic black and plush ash tones.

Sensationnel Soft N’ Silky Afro Twist Braid, £5.99; Ava Estell Hydrating Hair Mist £26, Design Essentials Natural African Chebe Strengthening & Curl Perfecting Mousse, £17.99; House of Silk Hair Bonnet, £10

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POWER DRESSING

redefined Forget what you know.

‘Dress for success’ has a new mode Change is inevitable, especially in the world of fashion. All the “norms” are once again being broken down. What was once described as formal aka ‘suited and booted’ – to throw in the informal terminology, is now welcomed for all occasions. In fact, its the default go-to for everyday dressing.

This proves there’s been a seismic shift in attitude. We’re familiar with the generic term ‘look good, feel good’, but now it has evolved and this time it’s personal.

“Power dressing to me means ‘I’m doing me, regardless’”, says Agnes Cazin, fashion brand consultant.

Power dressing is no longer limited to the quasi-masculine silhouettes of the eighties. Shoulder pads are decidedly out (unless worn ironically), while bare midriffs are in. Tapered trousers? Out. Slouchy slacks are in. While transitioning through its various iterations across the past four decades, power dressing has

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shed its associations with traditionally stiff, cis-male attire. The WFH culture and last-minute Tinder matches means power dressing has transcended the threshold of the boardroom.

“There’s something so ‘2024’ about casually channelling the ‘dress for success’ aesthetic and incorporating it into all aspects of routine life,” says celebrity stylist Mariamu Fundi. “The post-soft life generation is donning attire that reflects ambition during the school run, in the classroom and bottomless brunches. Why? Because we want to channel looking good to feel even better.”

So, what are the rules? “It’s all about defining your power and what it means to you,” says fashion designer Deborah Latouche. “The concept of power remains at the centre underpinned by self-confidence, self-efficacy and self-esteem, rather than your position in the office hierarchy.”

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Halpern SS20, Street Style, credit – Deborah Iona, British Fashion Council

ERDEM, Street Style, credit – Deborah Iona, British Fashion Council

Primark

TRENDS

EASTPAK X TELFAR Shopper Small Canvas Cross-Body Bag, £105

PRETTY LITTLE THING Khaki Linen Look Wide Leg Trousers, £32

@taylasnts

TK MAXX Denim High Platform Shoe, £199.99

RIVER ISLAND Black Faux Leather Shearling Bomber Jacket, £65

Whereas you might have felt like a wallflower in school uniform, the chance to dress yourself on your own terms provides freedom for expression, which can be a big confidence booster. Feeling comfortable in the classroom is key, but there’s no reason why you can’t pair practical clothing with more commanding shapes and textures, like an oversized leather jacket.

EXTRA PERKS SENSATIONNEL Cloud 9 Braided Wigs Senegal Twists, £95.99 LOTTIE LONDON Undereye Brightening Corrector, £6.95 COSMOSS Sacred Mist Eau de Parfum, £125

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Edward Crutchley Backstage, credit – Rory James, British Fashion Council

COLLEGE CONFIDENCE

NEW LOOK Black LeatherLook Stiletto Heel Ankle Boots, £39.99

PRIMARK Waistcoat, £16

Pronounce, credit – Jessica Mahaffey

LEEM Chain-Embellished Single-Breasted Oversized Woven Blazer, £118

PRIMARK Party Cream Diamonte Mesh Phone Holder Bag, £7

BIG DEGREE ENERGY University is just one step away from the world of work, plus the new surroundings, peers and a heavyduty curriculum may seem daunting at first, but by dressing the part, you can help ease yourself into your environment and routine like you’re already a proud alumni. Use your newfound independence to work those pieces you’ve always wanted to wear, whether it’s a striking co-ord or a unique accessory.

ADDED BONUS WAKATI Oil-Infused Cream, £10.95

@camilanunees

CLINIQUE Moisturizing Lotion, £37 FENTY BEAUTY Icon Velvet Lipstick, £18

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TRENDS

WEEKEND BY MAX MARA Nido Belted Waistcoat, £240

Labrum, credit – S. Stafford, British Fashion Council

SKIMS Soft Lounge Maxi Skirt in Onyx, £54

DUNE LONDON Niamh Belt, £40

MUMFLUENCE

SERRAN Canvas Tote Bag, £125

WORKING OVERTIME OUTRE Swiss X Vixen Blowout £49.99

SCULPTED BY AIMEE Sculpted Brow, £20

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@femmeblk

19/99 Lip Ointment, £21 @gabunion

It’s tough finding time to dress to impress between ironing uniforms and making packed lunches, which is why elevated basics are essential for busy mums. Think block colours, midi-heel loafers or box-fresh trainers, and a structured jacket. If you can style it in under a minute, it’s a keeper.

GANNI Leather Jewel-Embellished Loafers, £325

BANKE KUKU Black Monogram Bodysuit, £172

Pronounce, credit – Jess Mahaffey

MARKS & SPENCER Autograph Leather Trench Coat, £350

OLIVER BONAS Mae Black Triangular Hoop Earrings, £16

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT The right partner won’t be intimidated by a confident woman – instead, they will match her energy! Power dressing goes hand in hand with power couples but it also allows you to express yourself and make an impression as early as the first date. For a radical approach mix stilettos with oversized, unisex pieces.

CARVELA Kicker Stud, Kurt Geiger, £99 PRETTY LITTLE THING Black Metallic Asymmetric Cut Out Maxi Dress, £29

Chet Lo AW23, credit – Haydon Perrior, British Fashion Council

FULL BENEFITS CHARLOTTE TILBURY Matte Revolution in shade Love Liberty, £27 ATEH JEWEL BEAUTY Love Plum Plum Blush, £25 FEME WIG from £25.99

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Photo credit: Joe Brown

Navigating your way through menopause is a personal journey, but you’re not alone with these tailored brands paying attention to women’s needs

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

for menopause

Menopause is a natural and inevitable phase in a woman’s life. While it is a universal experience, each woman’s journey through menopause is unique, accompanied by a range of physical, emotional, and psychological changes.

Google search data shows that over the last ten years, searches have tripled for the term “menopause” and a recent survey shows that 67% of women in the UK reported a loss of confidence during this phase. Symptoms such as thinning hair, disrupted sleep, vaginal dryness and hot flushes have an impact

on all areas of life, with as many as 73% of women choosing to “put up and shut up” by not seeking treatment, and instead suffer in silence.

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being 51. However, the oldest millenials are now entering the the perimenopausal period at 39. It is defined by the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months.

The transition leading up to menopause is known as perimenopause, during which hormonal fluctuations can result

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in various symptoms, ranging from physical and hormonal changes to emotional well-being i.e. mood swings.

While there are several menopause symptoms that require systematic treatment, there are over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle tweaks to relieve the side effects. From vaginal prebiotic vaginal cleansers, stimulating supplements to loose fitting clothes to regulate body temperature, here’s our list of essential items to navigate through this transformative stage with calm and understanding.

HAIR NECESSITIES

CARE DOWN THERE

MOISTURE BOOST

VIVISCAL Healthy Hair Vitamins 30 Tablets, £29.99

LIP ORGANIC INTIMATE CARE Cleansing & Moisturising Oil, £22

HEALTHY HAIR STUDIO Instant & Deep Conditioner, £36.50

JUMP IN

NIGHT NURSE

SLOW BURN

OLIVER BONAS Wrap Jumpsuit, £90

ZLAB ZL1 Night Nutrients 60 capsules, £49

CONTROL & CHAOS Mint + Rose Scented Candle, £55

SCRUB-A-DUB

BEST DEFENCE

SERENI-TEA

SUBTLE ENERGIES Tranquillity Bath Soak, £45

QOPH WORLD Immunity Booster, £27.95

PERSIAN APOTHECARY TEA The Shah’s Earl Grey Tea, £42

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BE YOUR OWN TREND

#SpellbeautyUK

Models are wearing Urban Locs Micro Locs

Feme Wig

Outre X-Pression Twisted Up Borabora Locs

HAIR GOALS

Urban Pre-Looped

Make 2024 your most stylish year yet!

Premium Plus Tara 27 Pcs X-Pression Ultra Braid Pre-Stretched

Feme 100% Virgin Brazilian Closure

Discover our curated digital hair and beauty boutique today.

Spellbeauty.com @SpellbeautyUK

Free next day delivery* *Visit spellbeauty.com for Terms & Conditions

COVER STORY

COMING CLEAN Presenter, actress, DJ and now, businesswoman Sarah-Jane Crawford begins a new chapter with the launch of non-toxic curl-care brand, Clean Curls In today’s day and age, it’s not uncommon to hear the news of a celebrity cosmetics launch.

Between Idris and Sabrina Elba’s skincare line S’Able Labs, and Rihanna teasing Fenty Hair, the latest slew of announcements has shown us that the beauty industry continues to be ripe for celebrity investment. However, it’s uncommon to hear of the release of a curl-centric haircare range – even more so a non-toxic one, and, even rarer, one that has been developed for family use.

Clean Curls is all of the above.

Developed and tested by SarahJane Crawford, the range consists of vegan, cruelty-free products designed around her own haircare needs, as well as that of her two daughters, Summer (3) and Bonnie (2).

Here, the multi-hyphenate and self-dubbed ‘clean living mumma’ talks us through her transition to clean curl care, the highs and lows of postpartum hormones, and her beauty and well-being resolutions for 2024.

Photography by Femelle Studios.

Hair by Kimberley Taylor.

Make-up by Rachel Bainbridge.

Styling by Nicole Ranger.

YOU’VE SAID ON YOUR SOCIALS THAT YOUR CURLS HAVE BEEN THROUGH NEARLY A LIFETIME OF DAMAGE AND STRAIGHTENING. WHEN DID YOU BEGIN YOUR HAIR REHAB JOURNEY, AND WHAT WAS THE TRIGGER?

Until a few years ago, I had only seen my natural curls in between getting one lot of extensions taken out and new ones put in. I would have half an hour with my natural hair in front of the mirror in the stylist’s chair, and then I’d have extensions put back in again.

During that time, I was colouring my hair as well as relaxing it, so it was very damaged. It was in 2017 when I began growing out the damage and I stopped putting anything on it at all. However, I was still getting it blow dried straight.

And as it was growing longer, I was enjoying seeing the length on it when it was blow dried. It was as if I were addicted to straight hair.

Then, I would say the real turning point was lockdown 2020 when the salons closed. I spent the majority of 2020 pregnant, and so it was just the perfect excuse to try a completely clean natural hair routine. I used sulphatefree shampoos, natural hair masques, tried co-washing, stopped sleeping on cotton pillowcases and really began falling in love with my natural curls. On top of that, I knew I was having a girl, and that her hair would be important. I didn’t want to look at myself and think that straight hair is the beauty standard and pass on those false ideals.

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HOW DID YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR OWN HAIR DEVELOP POSTPARTUM? After giving birth to Summer, I became pregnant with Bonnie. So it has been a journey in terms of my hormones.

When you’re pregnant, there’s more oestrogen circulating around the body, which can often make your hair thicker. Then, when you give birth, the oestrogen drops again and you can lose some of your hair. This means that my relationship with my hair has fluctuated up and down, but if it were shown in a year-on-year graph, it has gone up and up! Even now, if it feels a little thin due to my hormone balance, I still have faith in the journey I’m on.

Everything I do to my hair now is proactive. Sometimes I might feel like straightening my hair, but I stop myself and ask myself why I would want to actively damage it. That isn’t to say I’m never going to wear my hair straight again – I don’t think it’s necessarily healthy to impose restrictions on yourself. However, I’m in an era in my life right now where it’s the longest I’ve gone without straightening, and I’m not dipping in and out of blow-dry bars.

THERE ARE LOTS OF DIFFERENT NOURISHING INGREDIENTS AVAILABLE IN HAIRCARE, LIKE COCONUT OIL AND VITAMIN E. WHICH ONE WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE MOST VALUABLE IN YOUR HAIR JOURNEY?

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COVER STORY Coconut oil has always been in my environment. Even when it comes to food. When you’re cooking with coconut oil, it remains stable at all temperatures. So I always have it in the house. On top of that, it’s great for the skin, hair and scalp. Aloe vera has been something that I’ve been interested in more recently, which is why it’s an ingredient in Clean Curls, but coconut in general is important.

CLEAN CURLS IS FAMILYINCLUSIVE – WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN CREATING PRODUCTS THAT CATER TO CHILDREN AS WELL AS ADULTS? The whole business idea started off for kids, but what bothers me about kids’ haircare ranges is that adults don’t believe that they can use them too, because of the way the products are marketed. There’s so much marketing that comes before the efficacy of the product. If you had a product in front of you with no label, and you used it over six months and found that it was effective on your hair, it wouldn’t matter that it was a kids’ product, because you wouldn’t know.

I’ve been the number one test subject for my formulations. They have worked on my hair, so much better than any other product. If they’re effective on my hair, then that means adults can use them too.

My challenge wasn’t centred around how to make Clean Curls kid-friendly, it was that I had a set of ingredients that are friendly to everyone and I needed to brand them in a way that encourages everybody to use them.

HAVE YOUR KIDS HAD AN INFLUENCE ON THE DIRECTION OF CLEAN CURLS? Massively. We’ve all got different hair types; Bonnie’s hair is more European, while Summer’s is somewhere between mine and Bonnie’s. They were an inspiration in terms of the products working on their textures and my own, but also the ethos I wanted to create.

I’m quite paranoid, probably to an unhealthy level, about toxic products, and if I was using toxic products on my kids then I’d be even more paranoid. It has been really important for me to be able to use Clean Curls on the girls.

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“I’M IN AN ERA IN MY LIFE RIGHT NOW WHERE IT’S THE LONGEST I’VE GONE WITHOUT STRAIGHTENING, AND I’M NOT DIPPING IN AND OUT OF BLOW-DRY BARS.”

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Hair: Sarah-Jane Crawford is wearing Sensationnel Custom Lace Wig – Envy in colour 1B. This page: Mara Hoffman dress; Jayley fur bucket hat. Opposite page: Sarah Regensburger dress; River island heels; Pilgrim cuff and rings.

COVER STORY WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR PARENTS WHO WANT TO ENCOURAGE SELFLOVE IN REGARDS TO THEIR CHILDREN’S HAIR? My first tip is daily reinforcement – telling your child, ‘you are beautiful, your hair’s beautiful, and anyone who looks like you is beautiful’, every day.

On top of that, make sure that there are plenty of references to allow them to see themselves in others. Young children want to find similarities in themselves and whatever it is that they’re doing or seeing, whether that’s playing with dolls or watching TV or films. You want them to feel like they are represented, and that this is their mainstream world, because as soon as a child is underrepresented, they believe that they’re the odd one out.

They say that, in the first three years of a child’s life, you’re hardwiring around 80 to 90 per cent of their lifelong thoughts and feelings. So the best thing you can do is to make sure they know that they’re loved and secure, and they will flourish in their own way.

SENSATIONNEL Custom Lace Wig Envy Curl, £29.99

NARS Orgasm Afterglow Lipstick, £26.50

CLEAN CURLS The Full Works Limited Edition Bundle, £40 SPELL

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AS A PRESENTER, ACTRESS AND DJ, YOU’RE ALREADY AN INCREDIBLY BUSY WOMAN. WHAT’S YOUR SECRET TO NAVIGATING A BUSY CAREER ALONGSIDE LAUNCHING A BUSINESS? When it comes to women, there’s always that question: ‘Can I have it all?’ There’s a preconceived ideal of motherhood which makes it more challenging to have a successful career. But the new thing I’m saying to myself now, and my advice to others, is: You can have it all, but you can’t do it all. You’ve got to accept that, when you’re between children’s parties and meetings, your house will be a tip. You might be able to blitz the house clean one weekend, but then someone’s going to have to help you by looking after the children. You might be able to work on your business for a day, but everything else will go down the toilet. So, you can have it all, but not at the same time.

Wearing Cult gaia dress; Vanessa Baroni necklace

SARAH-JANE’S BEAUTY MANIFESTO

for 2024

I want to be more creative with mine and my kids’ hair. I feel like I’ve nailed hair health and now I want to educate myself on hair styling.

More facials! I can count on two hands the number of facials I’ve had in my life!

At the age I am, it’s important for me to avoid taking my skin for granted.

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I’d like to be more consistent with meditation. I’ve been listening to Glenn Harrold on the Aura app, and his meditations cover sleep, the law of attraction, breaking unhealthy eating habits and more.

spell loves FEED YOUR INNER PRODUCT JUNKIE

Delve into sorbet-style temporary hair colour or AI art – the rule of thumb this season, anything goes!

Photo by Schwarzkopf

ZERO COMMITMENT COLOUR Natural hair brings about many joys including experimenting with colour sans bleach. The latest wash-in, wash-out formulations from top tier curl care brands, cleverly achieve vibrant results saving time and money. As I Am’s Curl Color collection is an easy-to-apply gel designed to saturate the coiliest kinks and Curlsmith’s Hair Makeup can be mixed and matched for a salon-style colour blend. To build up your colour confidence, apply Curls Unleashed Color Blast to the ends of damp hair for a soft-touch finish.

AS I AM Curl Color Sassy Silver, £11.95 ORS Curls Unleashed Color Blast, £7.58

CURLSMITH Hair Makeup in Gold, £13

TOP 3 BOOKS

FOR SELF-IMPROVEMENT

POCKET POWER FROM THE SLUMFLOWER: Know Your Worth and Act On It

by Chidera Eggerue, £10

HOW TO BE BODY CONFIDENT: A Toolkit to Help You Transform Your Relationship with Yourself

by Olivia Roberts, £12.99

SEE! LET’S BE ME!

by Gemma Hunt, £9.99

Unlock the potential to a happier, healthier you by nose-diving into a self-help book. Go-to choices for 2024 include Pocket Power from The Slumflower, written by self-love queen, Chidera Eggerue, an insightful self-love handbook no modern woman should be without. Want a better relationship with your body? How to Be Body Confident by Olivia Roberts is the trusty toolkit you need to transform negative self-talk into words of affirmation. Finally, TV presenter Gemma Hunt’s latest children’s book, See! Let’s Be Me!, encourages youngsters to understand and overcome difficult emotions.

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Candy shop: Sugaring London King’s Cross

SUGAR MAMA If you haven’t heard of sugaring, you’re in for a sweet treat. The ancient hair removal technique, dating back to 1900 BC minimises discomfort, ingrown hairs and lifts dead skin to even dull complexions. Sugaring London has three ultra-cute locations across the capital – the newest located in king’s Cross – all offering defuzz MOT’s from Brazilian to Manzillians.

STATE OF THE ART

LOVE LANGUAGE Whether you’re celebrating solo, with a special someone or prefer Galentines, get in the mood for the occasion with a self-care routine that includes pampering, power-dressing and a confidence-boosting perfume. Why? Because this year we’re marching to the words of Beyoncé: “The world will see you the way you see you, and treat you the way you treat yourself.” So get ready to be your own Valentine’s Day crush!

If you can’t find the perfect mural for your space, wall art retailer Desenio’s new AI service offers consumers the option to create personalised illustrations from a combination of words. Desperate for a poster of the Venus de Milo in the style of Jean-Michel Basquiat?

No problem. Create the art of your dreams (literally) in just a few seconds. Desenio will then print your creation and send it to your door.

POUR MOI PU Skirt, £39

MAC Connect in Colour Eyeshadow Palette, £30

SAD Liquid Lipstick in BESO, RRP £21

DANIELA URIBE Boot, £395

EDENISTE Love, £68

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Model is wearing Feme Wig Smooth Press Out in colour 1B

STYLE REPORT

phenomenon THE 30+ INCHES The defying length to be seen in

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@thesamurider

@bby_cai

@zoenahabwe

@jorjadouglas @teairawalker

Suffering from a case of the mundane mane? The solution... serve some serious inches. Ultra-long hair is the quick-fix to elevating your everyday look.

Take basic braids, buss down middle parts and ordinary updos into the realm of extraordinary with an exaggerated length that will make Rapunzel jealous.

The dealbreaker is to choose quality hair extensions because excessive tangling is a big no-no.

@marilyn_melo

@therealniahh

Shop long hair

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FEME WIG Smooth Press Out 30 inches, from £30.99

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THE FEME COLLECTION Ponytail Swing 36 inches, £19.99

STYLE REPORT

“LOVING LONG HAIR DOESN’T DETRACT FROM MY BLACKNESS” Victoria Harding shares why she’s embraced the long hair, don’t care attitude

BACK THEN From as early as I can remember I have been obsessed with my hair. As a child I would study the twists and turns of my delicate coils, and cry when my mum would brush the knots out – I guess you could say the obsession morphed into a love-hate relationship.

In primary school I convinced myself that long hair equated to ease and

This page model is wearing Feme Wig Nouveau Straight in colour DR4/22

beauty. Being of African descent, I would compare my hair to my Caribbean and mixed-race friends who had longer, defined curls that would slick up easily.

Meanwhile, each morning I would struggle to tie my hair into one.

That’s when I discovered the word of braids. The access to instant length changed my world. Just by having hair that ‘swished’ made me feel ‘seen’

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and ‘pretty’. In secondary school and college it was all about relaxing. Gliding a comb through my hair without tugging was liberating. It compensated for the burning sensation I would feel when the cream was slathered on or the scabs that invaded my scalp for weeks after. Of course now I know them to be chemical burns. But this was my misguided quest to long hair – oh the irony!

NOW The damage that came from relaxing – split ends, thin edges – led me to discover wigs and weaves. The variety of colours, lengths, and textures gave me the breadth to experiment with my look without compromising my hair. I started out by wearing a conservative 14 inches and graduated to 30-inch braids when Beyoncé exhibited her iconic Lemonade braids. By the time I was in my mid 30s not only did I own 15 human hair wigs, but the natural hair movement had come and conquered, giving me confidence to go completely natural. Transitioning from bone straight relaxed hair to naturally kinky hair was a happy accident. While I continued to alternate between wigs and weaves, I went on a mission to learn how to look after my own hair.

It wasn’t long until the algorithm on my Youtube and Instagram went crazy with content like “how to grow type 4 hair”, “why your 4c hair isn’t growing,” “how to stop 4c hair shrinking”. I began to use methods like co-washing to maintain length and growth. Plus, the shelves in the hair shop were overflowing with innovative natural hair

products – rice water, anyone? – as black women across the globe were embarking on a similar journey.

MY MINDSET TODAY The moment I stopped thinking about length and focused on the health of my hair, it began to thrive. I’d be lying if I said I embraced my natural hair overnight. I had to re-learn what my coils liked and this required patience and a ton of nurturing. Looking back, I’m aware of the conflicts I and every black woman faces when it comes to their hair; the struggle of contending with Western beauty standards i.e. long hair being the epitome of beauty, to facing judgement and backlash from the black community – “do you think your a white woman wearing that straight wig?”.

Loving long hair doesn’t detract from my blackness. Black women possess the gift of expressing themselves in a multitude of ways – and social media proves this. My hair is now my #mood. Sometimes I wear it out if I’m feeling carefee, and if I want to spice it up, I’ve got the option of wearing a platinum blonde wig. My attitude is hair represents fashion, fun, creativity and at a deeper level freedom, selfacceptance, and self-love. Now who doesn’t want that?

Servin’ looks

The natural flex

Enjoying wig life

“I STARTED OUT BY WEARING A CONSERVATIVE 14 INCHES” Victoria Harding

Servin’ braid inches

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REVLON One-Step Volumiser Plus, £62.99

MASON PEARSON Natural Boar Bristle Brush, £68

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THE FEME COLLECTION Detangler Brush, £4

EMPOWER

curls

THE MIS-EDUCATION OF With the opening of Jennie Roberts Hair Academy, educator and celebrity stylist Jennie Roberts addresses hair discrimination, embracing greys, and why ignorance has no space in the industry head on

Photography by Ruth Samuels. Hair by Jennie Roberts Hair assisted by Luke Christou. Make-up by Harriot Babin. Styling

by David Daley assisted by Lucy Lethbridge

From working on the set of Spice World to becoming an ambassador for one of the most popular curl care brands in the world, Shea Moisture, Jennie Roberts’ career in the hair industry spans nearly four decades. But she’s not slowing down yet. Eager to pass on her extensive knowledge of textured hair cutting, styling and care, she has just launched her namesake Hair Academy, which offers courses to both professionals and consumers who really want to get to know natural hair. “I’ve been teaching for about 15 years now, but specifically teaching curly, afro hair styling for about eight years. In that time, I found that hairstylists are terrified of black hair,” says Roberts.

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BREAKING THE SILENCE There has been a raft of pioneering hairdressers like Roberts moving the needle on black hair education over the years, and yet, the struggle continues for parts of the hairdressing industry that have not been quick to adapt the changing tides. The Sky documentary Untold Stories: Hair On Set, featured exclusive interviews with film stars including Naomie Harris (Skyfall) and Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones), who for the first time break their silence on hair discrimination. Alarmingly, generations of curly-haired women have been subjected to styling their own hair on set, being left with irreversible damage or having to wear unsuitable wigs because the hairstylist lacked knowledge. With these stories coming to the fore, Roberts highlights the need for constant learning in these spaces.

“The Academy is about demystifying everything. I want to teach people about texture, not just about the one-to-four curl pattern, but what makes texture, texture. As well as that, the glossary associated with textured hair. Because who understands the meaning of laid edges or a TWA if you’re not in the black community? It’s about teaching people, in a safe space, the right terms and techniques.”

“THERE’S NO POINT IN ME HAVING ALL THESE SKILLS, JUST TO KEEP THEM TO MYSELF. THAT’S NOT GOING TO HELP THE INDUSTRY AT ALL.” Jennie Roberts

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CLASSES FOR CURLS With a solid commitment to not only helping professionals, Roberts has made it her mission to curate classes to help everyone; from models to mothers; Caucasian to mixed-race, The Hair Academy has its doors open to everyone. “I offer a three-day intense cutting course and that’s for qualified hairdressers to learn how to cut Afro textured hair. Students will learn bantu knots, twists and flat twists, canerows, how to wash and detangle, and to set hair in its natural form. I’m also offering a consumer course, because there are many everyday people who are embracing their own natural hair but aren’t sure how to care for or style it.

This is suitable for foster parents who want to learn how to do kids’ with mixed or afro hair.”

FUTURE HAIR GOALS After a long history of misinformation and bias against curly textured hair in the fashion, hair and beauty industry, Roberts’ career has been centred on empowering and supporting the concept to choose. “I know that black women

EMPOWER

receive a lot of judgement about identity regarding wearing wigs and weaves, but it’s all about choice. If you do want to make a change, I can help you embrace your natural hair and feel empowered by it, by teaching you how to care for it in the best way in a safe, non-judgemental environment.”

With so much knowledge to share, we ask Jennie to give her wisdom on three prevailing issues in the curly hair community.

DEALING WITH DISCRIMINATION “It’s important to know that your hair can’t be used to discriminate against you anymore. You have legal rights over protected characteristics, and curly hair and Afro hair come with these protected characteristics, just like black skin. You can’t say that black skin is unprofessional and ask someone to make themselves whiter! Just go

for it and wear your natural hair – you shouldn’t have to have a discussion with the HR department, but if you are worried about it, then do so. On top of that, people must educate themselves on microaggressions, like asking someone with textured hair if it’s their real hair or saying that they prefer someone’s hair tied up. We’ve got enough on our plates already, in addition to having to defend our hair.”

SOCIAL MEDIA AND HAIR “I think it’s great that curly and Afro hair has a platform now. You’ve just got to take everything with a pinch of salt and look at the source of the content. For example, on YouTube there are licensed cosmetologists, as they call them in America, and there are professional hair stylists in the UK and all over. If the creator is a professional, then I’d be more willing to take on board their advice. But if it’s a kid grabbing a SPELL

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colander and using it to dry their hair, then it’s just fun content – it’s not for professionals to take on board, or even for them to discuss. That’s why I tell my students to forget everything they’ve seen on TikTok!” SILVER HAIR CONFIDENCE “I have nothing against other people covering their greys, but for me, what you see is what you get. I do think it’s important to the world to show that this is what a woman looks like when she’s ageing. I’m not covering it up. I’m not going to apologise for it. I don’t want to look like someone who’s trying to fight it, because that can look a bit tragic.

Since I cut all my hair off and started again with grey hair, I get so many compliments, particularly from young women. If I’ve made one person feel that they could do it too, without having to buy into society’s beauty standards, that’s great.”

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Emotional beauty – IS IT WORTH TRYING?

Delve into the fascinating interplay between your skincare and mental well-being Skincare is often known for its physical benefits – clearer skin, reduced signs of ageing, and a radiant complexion.

But beyond these obvious physical perks, have you ever considered the impact that skincare can have on your mental health? “Stress isn’t just an unpleasant emotional experience; it’s a physiological response that, when chronic, can wreak havoc on our health,” explains Denise Iordache, sleep therapist & founder JoySpace Therapy. “Prolonged exposure to stress hormones, such as cortisol, can contribute to a range of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, immune system suppression, and mental health disorders.”

But can looking after our skin also affect our mental state? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Several studies have shown that a regular skincare routine can contribute positively to mental health, with Harper’s Bazaar finding that 83% of those studied experienced lower levels of cortisol from their skincare routine.

Just as our minds can influence the condition of our skin, the inverse is also true. A consistent skincare routine can help manage stress levels, boost confidence, and serve as an important form of self-care.

The conversation surrounding teen skincare is growing too, thanks to social media, namely TikTok. The growing generation of tech savvy individuals see the beauty world through a digital lens and thanks to the likes of Penelope Disick and North West sharing their skincare routines on TikTok, children as young as seven are following suit. Shai Eisenman the founder and CEO of new skincare brand, Bubble which has sold one product every minute at Boots since launch says, “Dealing with the pressures of daily life and hormonal changes, we think taking

THE SKIN-MIND CONNECTION It’s well established that stress and mental health issues can negatively impact our skin. Anxiety and depression, for instance, can trigger or exacerbate conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, and stress, in general, is known to accelerate the ageing process.

This is largely because such routines can provide a sense of control, which is particularly beneficial during times of stress. By taking care of our skin, we are engaging in a task that we can directly influence the outcome of, which can help alleviate feelings of uncertainty or overwhelm.

“A CONSISTENT SKINCARE ROUTINE IS ABOUT SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST SKIN HEALTH. IT’S A POWERFUL TOOL FOR MANAGING STRESS, BOOSTING CONFIDENCE, AND PROMOTING MENTAL WELL-BEING. ”

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care of your mental health should be just as common (and accessible) as taking care of your skin. That’s why we’re donating 1% of our proceeds to multiple non-profit organizations that provide emotional support to teens and young adults.”

SKINCARE AS SELF-CARE Skincare also falls under the umbrella of self-care, a concept that has been growing in popularity over the past few years. Self-care, in essence, is any activity that we do deliberately to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health. It’s about taking the time to nurture ourselves, and a pampering skincare routine can fit perfectly into this.

“With such a hectic schedule over the years I’ve had to improvise when it comes to my self-care routine,” says celebrity make-up artist Natasha Wright. “Wearing a face mask while binging Netflix, or a 60 second hand massage while applying hand cream are ways I stay on top of my beauty regime and practice mindfulness.”

Devoting time each day to care for your skin can provide a calming and soothing ritual. It’s a moment of tranquillity amid the hustle and bustle of daily life. The act of massaging a cleanser into your skin, applying a nourishing serum, or indulging in a hydrating mask can be deeply therapeutic. This process can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote more restful sleep.

“Let’s be honest, stress is an inevitable part of life, but how we manage it can make all the difference. Instead of aiming for a stress-free existence

(let’s be real, that’s nearly impossible), focus on healthy stress management techniques,” says Iordache. “Quality sleep is associated with a myriad of health benefits. Paired with an effective and consistent skincare routine, not only will you see improvement on a cellular level, but it will also help to support the positive impact of mindfulness and stress reduction.”

Photo credit: Ciaté London

BOOSTING CONFIDENCE Improved skin health can also lead to increased self-confidence. Skin conditions can often contribute to feelings of self-consciousness, and by actively working to improve your skin’s health, you can feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. “You can’t put a price on a good skin day,” says Wright. “When you take off makeup follow with a gentle foam cleanser and rinse off with lukewarm water. This opens the pores to absorb a good toner and moisturiser, giving you that feeling of all round freshness.” Following these simple steps increases confidence and can have a profound impact on your mental well-being, improving overall life satisfaction and positivity.

MIND OVER MATTER

Ways you can leverage your skincare routine for mental health benefits Make it a ritual

Treat your skincare routine as a ritual, a few minutes in the morning and evening just for you.

This can provide a sense of structure and control.

Choose products you love

Opt for products that make you feel good. This might mean selecting items with scents you enjoy or textures that feel luxurious on your skin. The more you enjoy your skincare routine, the more beneficial it will be for your mental health.

Include your partner

Don’t make it a solo veture. Upgrade a night in with a partner with some skin R&R. A mini facial can be a quick route to escaping life stresses and spending quality time together.

Incorporate mindfulness

Try to be fully present during your skincare routine. Notice how your skin feels as you cleanse and moisturise, and how your products smell. This can help ground you and reduce stress.

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REMEDY Cultured Biomecare Skinimalist Regime Kit, £95; Skin Proud Overnight Sleep Mask, £14.95; Bedew Instant Enzyme Peel and brush, £19.48; Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, £65

HYDRATE Bubble Cloud Moisturiser, £16; MAC Hyper Real Serumizer, £32; bareMinerals Butter Drench Restorative Rich Cream, £31; Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Face Moisturiser, £19; Pacifica Vegan Ceramide Hydration Undereye & Smile Line Jelly Patches, £6.40

BALANCE Athletia Milky Oil Serum, £68; The Body Shop Hemp Hand Protector, £8; Ciaté London x Smiley Lip Mask, £16, Liz Earle Glowing Hydration Routine, £36

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Positive moves to a better you Azonto your way to better fitness and a healthier state of mind

“Dancing is the ultimate confidence booster. It provides a safe space for you to be YOU pushing on self-expression, enhancing body awareness, and instilling a sense of accomplishment through mastering new dance moves,” says Natalie Lawrensky, lead dance instructor for MVMT (pronounced movement) at The Manor LDN. Dance takes on a holistic approach to fitness that intertwines physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Engaging in regular dance not only offers a cardiovascular workout that’s as effective as it is enjoyable, but it also provides immediate stress relief improving long-term mental health.

Studies have shown that dance alleviates symptoms of anxiety and depression, promoting a positive mood and a sense of well-being.

After experiencing postal natal depression after the birth of her second child, Sade Attia, 37, returned to her first passion; ballet. “My body and mind felt like it was stuck in a rut, and I needed to move – literally! Getting back into my ballet gear after giving birth made me appreciate my body again. Simple practices like becoming aware of my breathing and movements, makes me cancel out the noise in my head. It’s such an empowering and freeing sensation.”

Gary Markwick, palm reader to stars i.e. Meghan Markle and former US president Barack Obama, whereby a wellness reading is given at the start of the session. Granted, you might not take this up every week, but to form new habits, Lawrensky shares positive steps you can take to a long-term fitness and mental health.

Natalie Lawrensky, lead dance instructor for MVMT at The Manor LDN

Gym life can become stale very quickly.

Repeating the same squat routine can make your motivation dwindle faster than you can say “gluteus maximus”.

Naturally, when we fail to reach fitness goals it can kick-start a negative inner dialogue lowering confidence and the immune system. So, what’s the secret to maintaining a consistent fitness routine without it feeling like a daunting task? The answer is dance.

WHAT’S THE NEXT STEP? Dance studios like MVMT LDN deliver unique classes designed and led by leading dance instructors and fitness experts who have worked or shared the stage with icons such as Beyoncé, Janet Jackson and Stormzy. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you can train like a dancer in the state-of art space that rivals LA dance hotspot @queesnlettosofficial. “Recognising that many dance studios fall short in providing a quality space, MVMT LDN is meticulously designed to include highquality spring floors, water fountains, well-ventilated air conditioning, showers, and towels – all essential amenities,” explains Lawrensky.

Monotony is the nemesis of motivation, so the environment you’re in plays an important part. Now you can shop around for diverse fitness classes tailored to merge physical activity, creative expression, and social interaction. For example, the Gymbox has launched a class with SPELL

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MAKE IT TEAM EFFORT “The key is to bring a friend you trust to class! Not just any friend, but someone who’ll motivate you, push you when needed, and celebrate every step of the way. Having that personal cheerleader alongside the teacher ensures you step out of your comfort zone and truly shine. Dance is all about being present in the moment, letting go of any emotional baggage from the day. Give it a try – you won’t regret it!”

BUILD A HABIT “Here’s a friendly tip for keeping up with your hobby: plan by checking your monthly calendar to see how much free time you have. Once you’ve figured it out, go ahead and book and pay for your hobby. This way, you’ll feel committed and accountable.

Remember, building a habit takes time – about 21 days, they say. Take it at your own pace, and you can even try using a habit tracker, whether it’s a journal, a digital app, or have a friend join you to keep things fun.

USE ONLINE In today’s world, there’s a crazy amount of online resources, and YouTube has been my go-to for staying fit at home. You’ll find a variety of options, from dance fitness and pilates to bodyweight HIIT classes, all for free!

Plus, don’t overlook the simplicity of a casual walk with family or friends – it’s a great way to move, burn calories, and catch up with loved ones.

FITNESS FRIENDS

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1. Ardell Active Lash, £7.49 Dread your mascara running down your face when you sweat? Elevate your workout glam with Ardell Active Lash – the gym bunny’s secret weapon for fluttery lashes that keep up with your workouts. Lightweight and sweat-resistant, these lashes are your perfect fitness companion.

2 3

2. Amazing Jane RISE Leggings, £43 Designed with four-way stretch to smooth and shape in all the right places, these leggings keep you supported through every workout, whether you’re pounding the pavements or perfecting your pilates routine.

3. Subtle Energies Natural Deodorant, £50 This aluminium-free deodorant is a game-changer, keeping you confidently odour-free without the nasties. Nothing complements a post-gym glow like the scent of pure confidence!

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4. Skin Gym Stick, £20 each Like an exercise for your face, Skin Gym’s Face Serum Sticks are quick to apply and get to work. Featuring skincare favourites like hyaluronic acid, retinol and vitamin C, these gym bag-friendly serums are ideal for a quick refresh after your workout.

5. African Collection 3x Ruwa Braid, from £4.49 These braids not only add flair to your gym ‘fits, but are also designed to withstand even the most intense workouts thanks to innovative sweat-proof Aquatex fibres. Say goodbye to hair hassles and hello conquering fitness resolutions with confidence and style!

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Places to visit

MVMT LDN

MAD Lagree Fitness

Feel Electric

The high-spec studio not only houses leading dance instructors, it combines dance with the science of fitness.

Approved by Michelle Obama, the Lagree method is a high-intensity, low-impact fitness game-changer.

The gadget-led studio uses lowfrequency electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions intensifying workouts.

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SPELL MEETS Soundbites Catch up on our latest interviews with trailblazing women in the hair & beauty industry at spellmagazine.co.uk

ROSE OVENSEHI

LYDIA & ALMA

Founder of Flora & Curl “I have to mentally tell myself to switch off and not think about work.

Because even if you’re not in the office, your mind can still be there. Creating a separation between work life and personal life can be achieved by not using your personal phone after work, deleting work apps if needed, modifying notification settings, and then being very disciplined about your routine and schedule. Delegating is important as a CEO so have a team willing and able to support you in managing your workload.”

Scan the QR code to read the full interviews

Digital content creators

GEMMA HUNT

BAFTA nominated presenter and children’s author

SHARLEY VIOLA

Curlsmith textured hair educator “To make my [hair] routine enjoyable, I select one of my favorite TV shows for background entertainment, tune into a playlist, or connect with a friend for a catch-up while I style my coils.

Caring for your hair doesn't need to be a silent gaze in the mirror; paring it with something enjoyable makes it less like a tiresome task.”

“From my own parenting experience... I have had to do a LOT of personal soul searching, my own frustration management and practicing grace and love... I think that those explosive emotional moments open a can of personal worms when dealing with your own children. To parent in the best way we can I’ve had to ‘check myself’ on more than one occasion to make sure that MY emotions and emotional well-being is the best it can be. It’s not easy, but in dealing with me first I’m then better equipped to have a more rounded and grounded way of dealing with my daughter in her moments of emotional need.”

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“Strangest question so far was a photographer asking for a photo for his “own gratification”, and then asking, “how does our hair grow out of our hair like that”. Like we understand and welcome curiosity around our hair, but asking why your hair is the way it is, is difficult to answer because it’s simply our DNA!”

LITTLECK BLA BOOK

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Sarah-Jane Crawford The champion crusader for clean curl living

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