Closet Rogue

Closet Rogue Makes Yet Another Woman Smile + A Major WTF Moment

2009-11-23T15:35:00.000-08:00

A satisfied Closet Rogue Customer, modeling my signature bangs in Deep Purple. Thank you to Poison Wishfire, and everyone at Dances of Vice for a splendid evening!

Now onto the meat of the story. Today's WTF moment.

So, I was browsing the internet, keeping up with the mundane facts in the media when I stumbled across THIS picture:

Yes, that is is Katie Holmes and Miss Suri... wearing heels?! Now I'm all about being fashionable at any age, but you've GOT to be kidding me. This isn't cute at all! Call me old fashioned but this little girl looks like a high class prostatot. M'kay?

First we have Vanessa Hudgens' underage ta-tas surfacing all over the internet, Miley Cyrus going all "Striptease" on national television, and now this? Children should not be sexy, especially ones whose lives are being followed by millions of Americans with access to TV and the internet!! I have an 8 year old sister, and believe me when I say that Hannah Montana and Bratz dolls have much more influence on the young girl's psyche then we would like to believe.

Also, what is this obsession with shopping? I love clothes just as any other semi-sane rebel with a vagina does, but this emphasis on materialism in Hollywood really is starting to typecast women as gold digging whores that come in two flavors: neurotic and empty-headed. Think I'm exaggerating? The "chick flick" industry has been capitalizing on this stereotype for ages.

Need I say more?

Never a Dull Moment!

2009-09-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about what makes hair look sexy, and what makes it look... dare I say, dull. This post is primarily directed towards thick, ethnic, and chemically processed hair textures that are especially prone to dullness, dryness, and breakage. I have a combination of all of the above, so I know from experience that it can take quite some effort for us maintain certain styles. Let's face it- you can have a fabulous haircut/style and still look a little dull. We all can't run to the salon every week like clockwork, but we can take steps to make sure our hair keeps it's natural bounce and shine until we wash it. For those of us with thick, curly, or chemically processed hair, especially those who blowdry it straight, you know this process can cause alot of wear and tear. You might even have a friend who has the crispy remnants of her mane because of her straighening obsession.! (We've all been one or had one at some point!) So whether you wear your hair in waves, curls, or pin straight, dullness is something that can be easily avoided and is caused by a multitude of reasons.

1. Chemical Processing:

This is a major issue, many of us dye our hair, chemically alter its texture, or worse.... both! As a rule of thumb, if you chemically straighten your hair, avoid permanent hair dye like the plague..Bleach is your mortal enemy! Yes many ladies do both, but many of them don't realize how bad for their hair double processing really is. Just like a relaxer, once you start dying your hair another color, you have to touch up the roots every month or so. Not only is this a royal pain, but it ravages the cuticles of your already-processed hair.

If you're a color junkie and are dying to try something different (No pun intended!) luckily there a few safe alternatives out there. First, you can try a semi-permanent hair dye. Pharmacies generally don't carry semi-permanents so check in your local BSS (Beauty Supply Store). Semi-permanent dyes contain no ammonia/bleach and are generally very safe for the hair. Unfortunately, you can't lighten your hair with these dyes, only make it darker/richer. My hair is naturally medium/dark brown and I've successfully dyed it deep red in the past and am currently wearing it jet black.

Another option is to try some of Closet Rogue's clip in extensions for highlights or large blocks of color. We currently make streaks in any color of your choice and can make them with designs (stripes, zebra, leopard print, transition color, etc.) These clip in color blocks are a risk-free way to experiment with color without damaging your hair. They never get dull, fade, or break off and you can experiment to your hearts content. Check out our product page for more more info.

2. Excessive Use of the Blow Dryer & Flat Iron

Don't overdo it! If you are sitting at home frying your hair to a crisp right now, PLEASE STOP. You need to work with your hair, and use styling alternatives to give yourself a break. I will devote another post to this issue in the upcoming week. Another way to prevent damage from styling tools is to use a heat protecant for your hair. I use Fantasia IC Olive Oil Shine Serum as a multipurpose styling tool. It's good for shine, protecting from heat damage, and it has a fresh, citrus smell. It works wonderfully on curly, wavy, and chemically processed hair. It's lightweight and doesn't leave your hair feeling greasy like most "shine" sprays/serums BUT if your hair is naturally straight or oily, this product is not for you.

[It's also cheaper than Frizz-Ease. Definately worth the $8!]

3. Dry Scalp = Dry Hair

Dry scalp is pretty common, especially in those of us with ethnic hair textures. Don't sit around moping/scratching/flaking.. Moisturize! You can use a light oil or "sheen" spray if your scalp is moderately dry or a conditioning grease if your scalp is very dry. If you have extreme dryness and flaking problem consider using a medicated grease. Sulfur 8 is a well know medicated grease for severe flaking. Personally, I've used Doo Grow Anti Itch Growth Oil and it has worked wonders for me. It has menthol which soothes an itchy scalp, and stimulates hair growth! (My hair grew really fast while I was using this oil.)

[$7- $10, Available at most drugstores and BSS.]

Regardless of what product you use, if you consistently moisture your scalp, you hair will grow thicker and healthier. But don't get too grease happy! When you grease your scalp too much, the oils will drip onto your hair. This can cause your hair to get toasty and eventually break off . Use your discretion, once your hair starts feeling toasty and your skin starts getting oily you've had enough! Wash and style your hair, and apply a little less next time.

Well that's all for my post on hair dullness. Stay tuned later this week for more product reviews and my post on hair styling alternatives for those in-between days!

The Scoop on our Bangs, and Goddess Remi Hair Review.

2009-07-11T06:21:00.001-07:00

Hello Rogues,

Closet Rogue is now offering clip-in bangs for your diva needs! Want to dramatically change your look without the risk of getting a crappy haircut that will take MONTHS to grow out? The solution is Closet Rogue's clip-in bangs! For the price that it will take you to get your bangs cut at a salon ($20), you can get your very own bangs that clip on and off in a snap. Leave behind the days of frizzy, messy bangs and wear your bangs whenever you want. Confuse your coworkers, test your boyfriend, impress your friends!!! These bangs are a must-have. The best part? You can get them in any color, or get several in different colors. Stay tuned for pictures of our "Bettie Paige" bangs in electric blue.

Now on to the Review:

Closet Rogue is slowly evolving, and part of that process is including product reviews. Not all hair products are created equal. And with the state of the economy, we can't afford to take big risks on our wallets. We want you to know where to buy the best quality hair, for the least amount of money. Because Closet Rogue is located in New York City, we will be reviewing hair store locations in the Tri State area, and for you out of state followers, we will also be getting the scoop on online bargains!

I will be reviewing Goddess Remi Hair for all you Remi Lovers out there. Remi hair, for those who don't know, is the finest quality weaving hair on the market today. What makes it so different? Remi hair is also known as "virgin hair", the cuticles of the hair are kept in tact, unlike less expensive weaving hair on the market, such as Yaki hair. But beware! There isn't just one "Remi" brand, and not all of them are the same texture/quality. Remi hair is known for its silkiness and durability, and can last a long time if you take good care of it.

Today will be a week since I bought my Goddess Remi hair, and I am already in love! I read about Outre Velvet, Indian Remi, and Goddess as all excellent Remi brands but gravitated towards Goddess because of the texture. Unlike the others, Goddess Remi wasn't too silky, which made it easier to blend with my own hair. It can also hold a slight curl when curled with hot rollers or a curling iron. (Make sure to use hairspray!) Goddess Remi is soft, silky, but most of all it looks natural. It doesn't look too flat or pin straight, which can be a problem for women with thicker hair. I used 5 tracks, plus two side strips for the temples and it blended perfectly with my own hair. It rarely tangles and hasn't shed at all since I've gotten it. Since I'm a bit adventurous, I'll probably try a different brand of hair next time, and write a review about it. But for now, I'm a happy customer!

Inside scoop: If you know about Remi Hair, you know that it can often cost you up too $100 if not more. I know a hair salon in East Harlem on 104st and 3rd avenue that sells Remi Hair for the cheapest I've seen in a beauty supply store. Prices/products coming soon!

Closet Rogue is Back and Headed in a New Direction!

2009-05-24T08:05:00.001-07:00

Closet Rogue Designs is back, after taking some time off to think things through. Being that the warmer months are now here, I found it difficult to market some of the winter hats/scarves I was making before. While I'll still be experimenting with those designs, I wanted to make something that could be sold year round. Something innovative and in demand. Something to help boost the appearance and confidence of modern day divas, with minimal effort!

Introducing...

Closet Rogue Designs Clip-in Hair Extensions.

Check out my new website to see why clip-in hair extensions are the best solution for obtaining long, lavish, and fuss-free locks!

Old Man's Wood

2008-12-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

True story.

A few days ago, I saw an old man carving a piece of wood on the subway. Chunks of wood were flying everywhere. People were staring. There was a circumference of sawdust surrounding him. Yet there he sat, passionately carving a round, dare I say curvaceous piece of wood.

He was so into it that nothing else mattered to him, not the chunks of wood on the floor, not the curious stares, not me sitting next to him. This is what an artist is to me. Completely indulged in the throes of their latest work. Hedonists. Shameless. Passionate.

And the fact that he was doing it on the subway was almost voyeuristic. I was glad to see someone else who just didn't give a fuck on the subway. I've sewn on the subway. Some of the prettiest scarves I've made have been done on MTA public transportation.

To some people it's a freaking piece of wood, and a messy one at that. But any artist who has performed in taboo places has probably experienced the feeling of baring your soul to the masses. And with that I leave you rogues, traveling artists, and nomads.

Prostatots and Kinderwhores

2008-11-27T15:13:00.001-08:00

Definitions courtesy of UrbanDictionary.com:

Prostitot

(n) 1. Young Girl who dresses in a scandelous manner. 2. Female preteen intent on attracting adult men.

Kinderwhore

(n) A fetish look made popular in the early 90's by Courtney Love. It consists of red smudged lipstick, smeared mascara with heavy eyeliner, ripped up babydoll dresses, and bedhair. It is thought to have been created by Kat Bjellard of Babes in Toyland and stolen by Courtney. Courtney herself claims she got the idea from the lead singer of 80's band The Divynls.

Ironic or just fucked up? You decide. I'm going to go shopping for babydolls.

Reconstructed Flapper Hat

2008-11-26T02:04:00.000-08:00

Hello Rogues! A few days ago, I came across an old houndstooth hat in my closet. I thought to myself, "I never wear this hat", so I tried it on. The houndstooth print was cute, but there was something about the big round brim that was a bit cheezy and unsightly. So what did I do, you ask? I took out my scicssors and cut the damned thing off! Add some lace, and a little bowtie later, I had myself this baby.

You always need that something, which is why when I'm working on a piece I'll freehand it, then I'll look at it and ask myself what it needs to be complete. It can be a meticulous process, but theres nothing more satisfying than finishing a totally unique piece of art, and sharing it with the world. Maybe when I start getting more orders I'll resort to making patterns and such, but I like to think of myself as an experimental crafter. I don't own a sewing machine (yet) so I do everything by hand, and I actually enjoy it! I usually stay away from patterns when I can, and like to figure things out myself. Stubborn... maybe?

There are alot of crafters out there. So you, as my reader, are entitled to know that I do not enjoy making felted bird portraits or anything of the sort. I dont even like felt. There will be no aprons, no oven mitts, no cute deer head embroidery, no butterflies, no rainbows. This is a refuge for self-expression.