We’re featuring Brandi Lofton. For many women, natural hair means freedom and versatility. This is why the beautiful Brandi Lofton chose to transition to natural hair. After growing bored with her long and relaxed hair, the Georgia peach decided to take a chance on adorning her own curl pattern. Based on her swoon-worthy photos, it’s safe to say that she (and us, too) is glad that she did. When going through the natural hair process, its important to feel confident and sure of yourself throughout. After reading Brandi’s interview in this week’s hair feature, you’ll feel that way exactly.

Name and where you are from?

My name is Brandi Lofton and I am from a small town in South Georgia called Cordele.

When did you go natural and why?

I became fully natural in August of 2013 after transitioning a little over a year.  I decided to stop relaxing my hair and embrace my natural hair because I was tired of wearing the same boring hairstyle, tired of my hair only growing to a certain length, and curious to know what my natural hair actually looked like. I also loved seeing women with their gorgeous, big curly hair and felt that it gave them individuality since everyone had different curl patterns and textures.

Did you transition or big chop? Why?

I transitioned because I had always had relatively long hair that was never any shorter than shoulder length and I knew that if I big chopped I wouldn’t know what to do with my new curly hair.  I also feel that I have an odd shaped head so I wasn’t sure what I would look like if I cut my hair off. Lol.  Not to mention, I was also in law school at the time and I knew that the professional world would not be forgiving on those days that my hair would be jacked up due to my experimenting with products and various styles.

What is you favorite thing about being natural?

I would have to say my favorite thing is the individuality that my natural hair gives me and the fact that I can enjoy the best of both worlds by rocking a big fro one day to super sleek straight hair the next.  I also love having a community of other beautiful women with beautiful curls, coils, and kinks who love what God gave them and are embracing it unapologetically.  We are all redefining what is beautiful and I am ecstatic to be taking part in this movement with my natural hair sisters.

What is your least favorite thing about being natural?

My least favorite thing would have to be the fact that there is always a possibility that my hair will not come out the way I intend it to be on wash day.  Somedays I have to improvise and work with whatever style I get.  I just rock any style with confidence because at the end of the day my hair is just another accessory that highlights my personality.

Did you receive any criticism when going natural?

Definitely! Some of my friends and family were totally against it and couldn’t understand why I would want to do such a thing. Some even thought that I was just going through a phase at the time and would soon be over it.  Even today, there are a few people in my life who still aren’t very accepting of my natural hair, but at the end of the day how I feel about my hair is what matters.  I have been able to offer up advice, encouragement, and share my experiences with other women so they can embrace their natural hair so that makes me happy.

What is your nighttime routine?

I like to keep it simple. If I’m wearing a wash and go, I sleep in a pineapple, also known as a high ponytail.  For rod sets, I stuff all my curls into an oversized satin bonnet.  When I’m wearing my hair flatironed, I usually roll it on perm rods to give my hair volume and loose curls.

Did your significant other have a say in your decision to go natural?

No.  My boyfriend was completely against me going natural and couldn’t understand why I wanted to do so. Even today he isn’t completely on board with it but he is warming up to the new me.

What advice would you give the newly natural?

I would say have fun with your hair, experiment with different styles and products, and allow your personality and style to be represented through your hair.  

What are your favorite bloggers/vloggers?

Naptural85, Shameless Maya, MahoganyCurls, ItsMyRayeRaye, MoKnowsHair, and so many others.

What are your favorite products?

Most Camille Rose Naturals and Shea Moisture products.

What is your go to hairstyle?

Wash and Go.

Who is your celebrity hair crush?

Elle Varner.

Who is your regular hair crush?

I would have to say Bianca Alexa because her tight coils are gorgeous and she rocks curly bangs the best, in my opinion.  I’m tempted to get some bangs of my own.

Where can you be found on social media?

Instagram: @brandilou88

Twitter: @brandilou88

YouTube: Brandi Lofton or www.youtube.com/georgia1988peach

Natural hair is a beautiful choice!

Enjoyed this week’s hair feature? Share your thoughts with us in the comments or online with hashtag #FlorBellaBoutique. We can’t wait to hear from you.