2020 has been one helluva year; and although it feels like we're being hit from every angle, we've made sure to stay protected. From rocking Black-owned face masks and implementing a regularly scheduled vitamin routine to keeping our scriptures and affirmations on deck to cover our mental health, it's important that we protect our necks, spirits, immune systems, and tresses so that evils like coronavirus and heat damage don't get the best of us during this quarantine, and Black women on Twitter just showed us how to do exactly that.
In a thread started by xoNecole asking Black women to drop photos of their current protective styles, we got our entire lives and then some inspiring us to twist up our tresses and put down our flat irons and it was absolutely everything.
Scroll below for images from our tribe that will give you all the protective hair joy you didn't know you needed.
@SliMTiNGz
Twitter
Featured image by Shutterstock
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The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
As I matured, my grandmother graciously bestowed upon me her wisdom, sharing her not-so-secret beauty secrets. For my sweet June bug, simplicity has always been key. I discovered that her natural glow stemmed from a combination of simple yet effective practices. At the core of her routine was a commitment to skincare. Every morning and evening, she meticulously cleansed, toned, and moisturized her face, emphasizing the importance of hydration.
She also swore by the power of natural remedies, often incorporating ingredients like honey, yogurt, and cucumber into her DIY face masks and scrubs. I also believe my grandmother's inner radiance was a testament to her positive outlook on life. She approached each day with a smile, spreading joy and laughter wherever she went. Her unwavering optimism and sense of gratitude seemed to infuse her entire being with an ethereal glow.
Courtesy of Joce Blake
I also believe my grandmother's inner radiance was a testament to her positive outlook on life. She approached each day with a smile, spreading joy and laughter wherever she went. Her unwavering optimism and sense of gratitude seemed to infuse her entire being with an ethereal glow.
As the years passed, my grandmother's beauty secrets became more than just a collection of skincare tips. They transformed into a philosophy of self-care, encouraging me to prioritize my well-being and embrace my natural beauty. Her teachings instilled in me the importance of nurturing my body, mind, and spirit, recognizing that true beauty emanates from within.
Through her guidance, I have learned that beauty is not merely an external attribute but a reflection of one's inner essence. And while makeup may enhance our appearance, it is the radiance that shines from within that truly captivates and inspires.
Courtesy of Joce Blake
As I try to honor my people while they are still with me, I decided to implement my granny girl’s skincare routine for 30 days to see what’s really tea and dive into generational beauty wisdom by following a skincare routine based on my grandmother's traditional methods.
Each step holds sentimental value, reminding me of her love and care.
Week 1: Cleansing and Moisturizing Basics
- Cleanse: Wash face with Noxzema face wash to remove impurities and refresh skin.
- Moisturize: Apply a small amount of shea butter to keep the skin hydrated and soft.
Evening Routine
- Cleanse: Use Black soap to deeply cleanse the skin, especially in the evening to remove oils and dirt.
- Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to lock in moisture, focusing on any dry patches.
Week 2: Introduce Exfoliation
Morning Routine
- Cleanse: Alternate between Noxzema face wash and Black soap every other day for a gentle, yet effective cleanse.
- Moisturize: Continue with shea butter, but focus on massaging it in circular motions to increase blood flow.
Evening Routine
- Cleanse: Use Black soap consistently.
- Moisturize: ApplyVaseline but mix in a few drops of shea butter for added hydration and nourishment.
Week 3: Hydration and Recovery
Morning Routine
- Cleanse: Stick to Noxzema face wash for a gentle morning cleanse.
- Moisturize: Use a lighter application of shea butter to avoid buildup.
Evening Routine
- Cleanse: Use Black soap, but only every other day to avoid over-cleansing.
- Moisturize: On alternating nights, apply Vaseline to help with moisture recovery and skin barrier protection.
Week 4: Full Nourishment
Morning Routine
- Cleanse: Use Noxzema face wash for its refreshing effect.
- Moisturize: Continue with shea butter, focusing on areas prone to dryness.
Evening Routine
- Cleanse: Return to using Black soap daily.
- Moisturize: Apply Vaseline as a protective barrier, especially before bed.
Finally, every day, I apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect my skin from the sun's harmful rays. While this wasn’t a part of my granny’s routine, I do believe that it’s something I’d like to pass down to future generations in my family. This addition to the routine is both gentle and non-abrasive, suitable for all skin types.
It utilizes natural ingredients, minimizing the risk of irritation, and promotes a deeper connection to my family heritage.
By following this routine, I not only honor my granny's legacy but also foster a sense of continuity and intergenerational bonding. Best of all, the routine made my skin happy. Most days I only threw on a popping lippie and a lil' eyebrow because my skin was giving exactly what it needed to give.
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Featured image courtesy of Joce Blake