

From Brazil to New York City, Beleza Natural Institute is raising the bar in the natural hair industry by creating a new way to maintain your natural mane. Beleza Natural was founded by two curly-haired Afro-Latinas — Leila Velez and Zica Assis during a time where it was a struggle for these women to find hair services that provided the proper treatment of curly hair textures. An even bigger struggle was trying to find the right products. Trial and error as well as experiencing a lack of products is something that we can all relate to when it comes to maintaining our hair, right?
Leila and Zica decided to create their own products and services; 25 years later, Beleza Natural Institute was born. Together, they partnered with Columbia University and Brasilia Federal University to improve the treatment and styling process of various hair textures, create profound studies about curly hair and its biochemical structure, and understand the difference between curly, wavy, and coily hair textures.
Most of us are used to seeing our hair textures broken down by letters and numbers like 3B or 4C, but the institute takes a different approach to classifying their products. They classify their products by curl, wavy, and kinky, and use all raw ingredients along with the highest quality water they can find. As a part of their "new natural" approach, they also create achievable hair goals that protect your crown and your self-esteem.
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Having known all this information about the institute, I was anxious to see and experience it myself. Recently, I had the chance to visit Beleza Natural NYC, and here's how my visit went.
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
When I arrived, I had very dry hair with a lot of product build up. Basically, I was in dire need of a treatment. I realized Beleza Natural breaks down their salons into stations. First, is the one-on-one consultation from the well trained and professional staff. They ask you questions about your hair, give you more information on the products that will be used on you, and then recommend treatments and styles that work best for your hair. When I went, they recommended I use the products for kinky hair and a moisturizing treatment. Then they sent me to the next station, for detangling.
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
The stylist detangled, sectioned and prepared my hair for treatment. Once that portion of the experience was done, I went to the washroom where my hair was shampooed, treated, and conditioned. Then I moved on to the next station to style my hair. They gave me a quick wash and go hairstyle and during the styling, they told me how to use the products and how to make my style last at home.
Once I was done with styling, I was good to go. Typically, the next station would be the drying station but for the style and treatment I received, it wasn't necessary. To complete the experience, I got to walk down my personal red carpet to show off my final look. To be honest, that was my favorite part.
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
Overall, here's what I thought of my experience:
It was very quick and easy. I think having the different hair stations allow you to get in and out of the salon at a reasonable time. Plus, they had a full and extremely qualified staff. I also love the products. I ended up going home with every product from the coily hair product line. The ingredients are indeed natural and leaves your hair feeling very clean, moisturized, and lightweight. Lastly, the pricing is reasonable. Depending on what service you're recommended or looking to get, the cost can be anywhere from $25 - $200, which includes any special additions, such as makeup and eyebrow services.
Brianna Rohlehr Photography
When I'm in New York, I'll definitely make another visit. But if you happen to be in the city and need a new salon, I definitely recommend them.
Check out their website to learn more about their services and book your appointment.
Featured image courtesy of Krissy Lewis
Originally published on May 31, 2019
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Freelance writer, content creator, and traveler. She enjoys the beauty of simplicity, a peaceful life, and a big curly fro. Connect with Krissy on social media @iamkrissylewis or check out her blog at www.krissylewis.com.
From '106 & Park' To Prime Time, Rocsi Diaz Is Still That Girl
Rocsi Diaz is no stranger to the camera. From her iconic run on 106 & Park to interviewing Hollywood heavyweights on Entertainment Tonight, she’s been at the center of culture for years. Now, she’s back in the hosting chair alongside none other than Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders for We Got Time Today, a fresh talk show exclusive to Tubi.
The show is exactly what you’d expect when you put a media pro and a sports legend together—a mix of real talk, unfiltered moments, and guest interviews that feel like family kickbacks. As the duo wraps up their first season, Rocsi sat down with xoNecole to talk about teaming up with Deion, the wildest moments on set, and why streaming platforms like Tubi are shaking up the talk show world.
Scoring the Gig & Clicking Instantly with Deion
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence
Deion Sanders had been dreaming of hosting a talk show, and when Tubi came calling, it was only right he made it happen. But before he found the perfect co-host, he held auditions with different women for the spot.
Lucky for us, Rocsi threw her hat in the ring, and the connection was instant. “You just can’t buy chemistry like we have,” she tells us. “We are legit like big brother, little sister—fighting, cracking jokes, telling each other off. When you watch the show, it’s like watching family.”
Mixing News, Culture & Sports—Minus the Snooze
With We Got Time Today, Rocsi and Deion cover everything from the latest headlines to celebrity tea and, of course, sports. But instead of stiff, rehearsed segments, the show keeps it loose and unpredictable.
“We’re not breaking the mold—it’s not rocket science,” Rocsi jokes. “We just bring our own flair, our authenticity, and our personalities to it. Deion has firsthand experience in sports, so when we talk about athletes, he brings a different perspective.”
And the best part? Unlike traditional talk shows that rush through quick interviews, We Got Time Today actually takes its time. “A lot of shows might give you one or two segments with a guest,” Rocsi says. “With us, we actually sit down and have real-life conversations.”
Her Top Guests (So Far!)
From music icons to relationship experts, the show has already had some unforgettable guests—but a few stand out for Rocsi.
“Ice Cube was our first guest, and he’s just legendary,” she says. “Kirk Franklin had us cracking up when he broke into a full choir freestyle for our Christmas special. And anytime we get Dr. Bryant on to put Deion in the hot seat? That’s my favorite!”
And of course, there’s Nick Cannon. “Nick was amazing,” she adds. “You already know he’s going to bring the energy and say something wild.”
Tag-Team Hosting with Deion: The Inside Scoop
While Deion Sanders is best known for his football greatness, Rocsi says he’s also one of the funniest people she’s ever worked with.
“He’s goofy—like, really goofy,” she laughs. “A lot of people didn’t know that side of him, but now they do. He can crack a joke, and if you’re too sensitive, good luck, because he will go in. But the best part? I throw it right back at him! Sometimes we just look at each other like, ‘Okay, that was a good one.’”
But beyond the laughs, she admires his insane work ethic. “Watching him juggle everything he does is just super admirable,” she says.
How "We Got Time Today" Brings That "106 & Park" Energy
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
For those wondering if We Got Time Today feels like 106 & Park 2.0, Rocsi says it’s a whole different vibe.
“The only comparison I’d make is that it’s a destination for the culture,” she explains. “It’s a platform where our people can come, feel safe, and have real conversations. But other than that, this is Deion’s world—we’re just having fun in it.”
The Talk Show Shake-Up: Why This Show Hits Different
Unlike traditional networks, We Got Time Today lives exclusively on Tubi, proving that streaming platforms are changing how we watch talk shows.
“Tubi is giving more people opportunities and making content more accessible,” Rocsi says. “Deion is a huge Tubi fan—he literally loves Black cinema—so it just made sense for him. And honestly? He’s got me watching it too!”
Real Ones Only: Women Holding Each Other Down
Rocsi credits her best friend, Chantelle, for always keeping her grounded. “She kept pouring into me, reminding me of who I am,” she shares. Even Deion Sanders makes sure to give her flowers, often calling her “the hostess with the most.”
In the industry, she’s built lasting bonds with women like Julissa Bermundez, Angie Martinez, and Angela Yee. “Julissa and I still kick it—her house is basically Sephora, so I just shop there,” she jokes. She also cherishes her friendships with Melyssa Ford and Robin Roberts, who have offered unwavering support. “Robin has always been there for me,” Rocsi says, reflecting on the wisdom she’s gained from the legendary journalist.
With the show’s first season wrapping up, Rocsi is grateful for the experience and excited for what’s next. “We’re having a good time, and the audience can feel that,” she says.
And if you haven’t tuned in yet? Well, Rocsi and Deion got time—so you might as well make some too.
Catch We Got Time Today now streaming on Tubi!
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Feature image by Leon Bennett/Getty Images
'Dandy Land' Just Dropped & It’s a Celebration Of Black Style, Swagger, And Statement-Making
The first Monday in May is always a moment, but this year? It’s giving Blackity Black Black Black in the most intentional and celebratory way. On May 5, the MET Gala will unveil its latest exhibition titled Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, which is a tribute to Black dandyism and identity. The exhibition honors the power of clothing within the Black diaspora, spotlighting how style has long served as a tool for Black resistance, reinvention, and radical self-expression.
Centering designers of color and curated by scholar Monica L. Miller, the exhibition draws from her 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity and the enduring legacy of Black fashion and self-styling. As she explains, the Black dandy “reimagines the self in a different context” and challenges “who and what counts as human, even.”
- YouTubeyoutu.be
This year marks the Costume Institute’s first menswear-focused show in over 20 years and the first to exclusively highlight designers of color. The co-chairs for the 2025 Gala include Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton, alongside honorary co-chair LeBron James.
To further build anticipation for the Gala, GQ and Voguecollaborated on a stunning fashion portfolio called Dandy Land, styled by image architect Law Roach and shot by Tyler Mitchell. The spread features over 30 Black trailblazers who embody the elegance and edge of Black dandyism.
In the words of Janelle Monáe:
“I consider myself a free-ass motherfucker. And when I’m in my suit, that is exactly how I feel… I feel like I am showing you a new way to think about clothing and to think about values and to think about what you stand for.”
Ayo Edebiri added:
“I’m half Nigerian. There’s nothing more dandy than an African man dressed to the nines, really showing out, going to a party or a wedding.”
Actress Danielle Deadwyler shared:
“Black dandyism is essentially a bucking of systems, a bucking of oppression, and saying we are inherently beautiful.”
And in the words of Dapper Dan, the Godfather of Harlem:
“The way I came into dandyism is through this process of transformation. I’m from the poorest neighborhood in Harlem, right by the banks of the Harlem River. Everybody in my little enclave was all poor. We had rats and roaches. Goodwill was our Macy’s. Whenever I was lucky and fortunate enough to have something to wear, I went to 125th Street. Nobody went there who wasn’t dressed. At 125th Street, nobody knew I had rats, nobody knew I had roaches, and that for me was the birth of dandyism because I saw the power of transformation that could take place with your clothes.”
To see the full Dandy Land editorial and explore the stories behind each image, check out the full spread on GQand get ready for the MET stairs to turn into a Black fashion masterclass next month.
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Featured image by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images