Have you ever been around that kid that always asked “why” about things and made you, as the adult ponder on certain situations? I was that kid! Lol. I believe that was my way of trying to understand the world and certain things we do. That kid has now transformed into an adult that continues to research various traditions this world has and enjoys pushing the limit and often times going against the grain. I guess “The ABnormal Life” is truly a befitting name.
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​My most recent project was…wearing white shoes after Labor Day. The northern side of me still twitches even as I type this lol!

​If you haven’t heard, white shoes after Labor Day is a no-no as far as old tradition goes.
There are so many explanations I’ve found as to why that tradition started, but what they all commonly discussed was not wearing white after Labor Day was one of the many ways and rules to mark the difference between old money and new.

So basically, the rich people with the old money made rules that ONLY they would know, and didn’t give others the time of day. This is just another way of striving to be superior to others.

​“What it really comes down to is a blend of elitism and pragmatism based in an era that's long gone.” (James Chrisman – The Thrillist)
Here’s a few more color restrictions I’ve found from back in the day:
White was only for summer, black was only proper for mourning, and denim was only acceptable if you were mining gold.

​I wanted to conduct my own mini project and see how people feel about this tradition now.
My Hypothesis: Younger generations won’t have a problem, but the seasoned generation will!
Watch these interviews:

My hypothesis was WRONG. I am happy to say that young AND seasoned generations had no limitations on whether white should be restricted after Labor Day. A lot of people  didn’t even realize I had on white shoes until after the interview was done.
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Have you ever had in a protective style and it’s not time to take it out yet, but it smells like it LOL? Let’s be real, our head has sweat and oil glands which can cause a not so great smell at times. This spray is a great way to deodorize your protective styles. Its color safe, silicone and sulfate free. ($11.99)

2) Silicone Mask Applicator

​Introducing the “Pay It Forward” Series!
Each month, I’ll introduce you to a company or brand that I’d like to bring awareness and give exposure to. We are helpers one to another, and it’s my desire to pay it forward by using my platform to support amazing brands.

To kick off my "Pay it Forward" Series, I’d like to introduce you to an amazing clothing designer, Abigail Ohene-Kyei.
 

Back Story:
The power of social media is SO incredible. I had the pleasure of virtually meeting another Abigail through Instagram!
She reached out to me through DM (direct message) to take the time and tell me how her and her best friend believe they are my long lost sisters lol, and how much of an inspiration I am. (Pause for dramatic effect) Sooooo very sweet.
Of course, I responded back and from there, I friended her (because all Abigails are so special in my eyes). From there, I liked her pictures quite often, but there was this one piece of clothing she wore that I had to stop and comment on.
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She was wearing a long see through rain coat, with African print fabric as the sleeves and fabric placed in the bottom of the jacket. This jacket was FIRE! After commenting, she replied saying she made it!! That blew me away even more! I then learned she attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan and has her own clothing brand.
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​I said “I so want one” and now here we are.
Abigail is modeling Abigail’s jacket.
 
Jacket Symbolization:
This jacket is a part of her “Wanderlust Collection” inspired by her Ghanaian culture.
The transparent vinyl represents how open minded and clear things become when we allow ourselves to travel and experience other cultures.
The fabric for the sleeves is simply to identify her people.

Her clothing brand page is https://www.instagram.com/_tenewaa_/ on Instagram. (@_tenewaa_ )
We still have yet to meet in person, but I feel her sweet energy through contacting her via Instagram. She also hand wrote me a sweet note signed “your namesake” that I just found a few days ago when cleaning. (So glad I went through the mail packaging one more time before throwing it away!)
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Abigail, I see your hard work, and I’m honored to have your jacket in my collection. ​

This natural hair journey is full of trial and error. From trying to figure out what products work for your hair, to finding the right go-to styles.
What I do know is with all the time we spend on our hair, having a reliable hair tie is a MUST.
Snappee is it!
Snappee is women owned, machine washable, and has a lifetime warranty! Yes, you read right, a lifetime warranty.
Need I say more?
Actually, I do have a little more to say. Watch this video!!
(DISCOUNT CODE IS IN VIDEO!)

I know there is quite a bit going on in our country right now...(understatement of the year), however, I am grateful for the choice to be able to proudly and freely express myself and my beliefs, which are protected by the 1st amendment.
I live for a comfortable shirt with a good message. It allows me to inspire those I see without having to open my mouth. It's genius.
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 While being comfortable, positive, and stylish, these shirts are a conversation starter and could potentially help me witness to those I talk to. It’s no secret that I luh God (a.k.a love) but I’m not one to force my religion on anyone, however, if you ask me about my shirt, I’m winning you over!
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In summary, shout out to companies making statements, breaking barriers, and having a positive impact through purposeful fashion. I support you.
xoxo, Abnormally AB

Shirts from: www.godisdope.com 

The worst possible thing that could happen to a natural hair girl happened to me.
* A part of my hair was damaged from being straightened (crying on the inside)*
Here's the backstory: 
I've been on this natural hair journey since 2013. Within 5 years, I've had my hair straightened by a professional twice. ONLY 2 TIMES!
This 2nd time was because I was in my Sorority sister's wedding. ( I love you sissy and wouldn't trade that experience for anything!)
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The wedding style came out beautifully and I was excited I could achieve this look using only my hair and just enjoyed the versatility of having natural hair. 
I kept it straight for as long as possible & finally washed it, but there was one problem...not all of my strands bounced back like usual.

There was this one piece...RIGHT IN THE FRONT that didn't want me to be great lol. To say my heart was hurt was an understatement. Here I am thinking, I've taken care of my hair over the past years, one straightening session shouldn't effect my thick hair...and it didn't, except that one piece.

Current Situation:
The reality is I have a piece of damaged hair, however I'm so grateful it's not more.
Question:
-Should I cut it off?
- Has this ever happened to you?
-Is there a product I can use to help it bounce back?
Share your stories and/or advice with me.
xoxo,
ABnormally Ab

According to what you have on, what's your fashion MOOD today?
And there's no wrong answer.  For example: I put on a baggy shirt today, because I didn't feel like sucking it in lol!  I was in a comfortable MOOD.

I want to encourage you to enjoy the various moods that fashion & beauty give you. 

Moodable Fashion & Beauty is here to:
- Inspire you to express yourself 
- Help you hone in on your own personal style
- and enjoy the visual communication we put out when choosing our clothing, hair, and makeup choices. 

When you look good, you feel good. If I can empower someone to love and be his or her best self through a little inspiration for what to wear, how to style your hair, or what makeup flatters you, I'm walking in my purpose.