Introduce yourself!
C: Chenoia Bryant, Birmingham, Alabama. I’m a Program Manager for an innovative public health program, which targets “Wicked Problems” and a doctoral student in the Department of Medical Sociology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I also delve into a bit of research, and my interests are gender, sexuality, and health, as well as health disparities and social determinants of health in minority and sexually marginalized populations.
What is your style philosophy?
C: If you love it, wear it and own it. Period.
How would you describe your sense of style?
C: It’s a bit eccentric and quirky, but it’s authentic because it’s me and what I love. Its off-kilter nature isn’t for everyone, but it’s just for the person who wears it…me. :0 )
What is the process of deciding what to wear in the morning?
C: To be honest, there is no process, no rhyme, no reason lol. If it’s in the same color family, it automatically goes together as far as I’m concerned lol. I’m not very calculating when it comes to what to wear, but I do consider how long my day is going to be. It is not unknown for me to have 16+ hour days due to work, class, and community/social obligations, so I do dress for comfort most days.
What are the three favorite things in your closet?
C: This is a hard one. First, I love my grey ostrich skin Miu Miu bag (Neiman Marcus, 2007). It’s big, but not oversized, and it is great for when I am traveling and don’t feel like carrying my book bag. I rarely ever carry it anymore because I hardly ever carry a purse (too much fuss), but it is still a favorite and probably will be forever. Second on the list are my Christian Louboutin Pigalle 120s in nude (Bergdorf Goodman, 2011). They go with everything, and I do mean everything. From jeans to suits to cocktail dresses, they never miss a beat. Lastly, my ivory suit by 3.1 Phillip Lim (Neiman Marcus, 2010). It has such a chic, Parisian vibe, and the cut of it is so flattering.
What are some of your favorite shops/websites for clothes, shoes and accessories?
C: I do love Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys. ASOS is pretty darn amazing. They really nail trends at a great price point. You can never go wrong with shopbop.com either.
How long have you been natural?
C: Since August 2008.
How and why did you transition into natural hair?
C: My transition was filled with braids, sew-in extensions, and wigs. I really allowed myself to have fun with it. I decided to return to natural because all of the chemical processing, weaving with glue, and heat trauma had left my hair thin, brittle and barely there. It was shameful really, and I knew my hair could do better. That I could do better.
What is your signature hairstyle?
C: My afro…without question :0 )
Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
C: My hair routine is fairly simple. I wash and condition, and roll and go. My staple products are primarily from the Agadir Argan Oil line. They work so well for my hair and they smell heavenly. I love their shampoo, conditioner, and moisture masque. I use the masque and coconut oil together for deep conditioning, and I usually sit under the dryer for about 45 minutes, then wrap my hair in a fresh from the dryer towel and let the conditioner sit for hours while I clean, wash clothes, read, whatever. My hair always feels like butter when I do this. I use their spray on oil and heavy liquid oil as well. I guess what I am saying is that the Agadir line is my go-to swear by. I pretty much wear my fro and keep heat out of my hair. If my curls are less than stellar or falling flat, I usually turn to a head wrap, turban, or hat. These do a great job of giving my hair a rest from the elements.
Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
C: Instagram – Chenoia
Twitter – @Chenoia
Blog – http://autruchenoire.com
