Tell us your name and where you are from?
Lauren Muller from New York. Originally from St.Lucia and Guyana.
How long have you been natural?
Since I was born.
What do you do? Is there a resistance or compatibility with your hair in your field of work?
I’m a painter and filmmaker. My hair is totally compatible with what I do. Its the arts, so you know, the bigger the hair, the better.
Describe your hair.
Its a transformer. It takes on many different shapes and sizes, but never the one I want it to do.
What is your hair regimen?
Honestly I don’t have one that I’ve stuck to. My life and schedule are always changing and its hard to figure out a regimen I can commit to. Plus, I will admit I’m a bit lazy when it comes to my hair and I prefer to keep it braided for long periods of time. But I will say that in the interim of washes, I moisturize it almost everyday.
What are the three biggest factors you attribute to your length?
Genes, no chemical straightener, and some cornrows.
What is your usual go to style?
A big knot on the top of my head.
What is your nighttime routine?
Combing, moisturizing, braiding and then wrapping.
Your top three favorite products and why?
OLIVE OIL. COCONUT OIL. Shea Moisture conditioner and shampoo. All three are very moisturizing, which is great because my hair gets dry so quickly.
Your best hair advice?
Don’t over stress your hair, whether it be with products or tools and techniques or anything. And don’t over stress yourself. A lot of emphasis is put on hair, but I think it’s really important to remember that you are not your hair. You’re an amazing mind, your hair is just an added bonus. So if your hair is not where you want it to be, just be patient because it will get there, and in the mean time be happy with the way it is now.
Ultimate hair crush
n/a
What is the strangest comment, request or hair story?
I was at a party once and all of a sudden I felt hands in my hair. That’s a huge no. I turned around and it was two girls asking if they could touch my hair, while their hands were already buried in it. Seriously?
How would you describe your personal fashion style?
Nomadic. Everything I wear is extremely comfortable, versatile and multi-functional.
What advice would you give to people who might be afraid to show their true fashion sense or natural hair for fear of being judged by others?
Nobody’s judging you but yourself.
What would you say to others who judge individuals negatively for their personal fashion style?
Everyone judges each other to a certain extent, especially when it comes to clothing. I, for example, question the sanity of those who wear toe-shoes. But that’s just me, toe-shoes aren’t hurting anyone, except for my eyes, and I can simply look away! I think judging is fine as long as you aren’t intentionally trying to hurt someone. In the end, its just clothing and if the person is comfortable in what they’re wearing, then they feel good. And feeling good means looking good.
When it comes to your style who, what or where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from myself. I’m the one whose wearing the clothing, whose emotions and attitude affects my apparel, so why look to anyone or anything else? Only I know what works best for me and what I feel good in.
If you could name one person from the past whose closet you would love to raid, who would it be?
Trinity from The Matrix.
Favorite stores and places to shop for vintage or thrift
I rarely shop vintage actually. But my mother was super fly back in the day and her wardrobe was amazing. Her style wasn’t really like mine, however all her pieces are so versatile and fit perfectly into my wardrobe.
Most embarrassing moment
n/a
What is your favorite life lesson.
“All they can say is ‘no’.” Do what you want to do without asking, let someone tell you that you can’t, then nod your head and do it.
Current music playlist and favorite book
I listen to so much Bonobo and all that other deep electronica stuff. My favorite book is The Picture of Dorian Gray.
Favorite restaurant and dish you would not want to live without
Nomad in the East Village. And I can’t live without Chicken Curry and Roti.
Do you have a workout/exercise routine? If so, what is your routine?
I do, but its always changing. I used to go the gym all the time but its so time consuming. So now I’m starting intense 30 minute home workouts. Also, I do crunches when I wake up and before I go to sleep.
Do you have a blog/website?
Anything else?
Not today.
What makes you an Urban Bush Babe?
I set no limits for myself.
