diane decosta + product giveaway…

Name: Diane Decosta
Url: dianedecosta.com
Claim to fame: Celeb Hair Stylist & Natural Hair Care Pioneer
City: New York, NY

When I first saw Diane’s hair on the Cover of her book “Textured Tresses” GT was enamored beyond belief. It was the first time I truly believed that an Afro could look doable in the workplace without folks thinking you’re secretly retaliating for Huey P. Newton. Diane needs no introduction. But she’s got a new Gig over at Mizani and was gracious enough to offer such an awesome product giveaway ($75 dollar value!) to Get Togetha readers….be in it to win it. Winner will be chosen by Random.org.

Diane…when did you instinctually know that you had a passion for hair?
I know it sounds cliche but I’ve been doing hair since I was 5 years old; cutting and styling on dolls. Then as a teen I moved on to real folks like my mother and sisters. Back then it was passion/hobby. But I put it on the backburner, went to college, got a marketing degree, worked in PR, and then my passion for hair was re-ignited.  I was around 25 years old.  At that point I enrolled in Robert Finance Hair Design Institute and was on my way to creating styles and working and mentoring with some of the top hair designers of the times.

Diane could you share with Get Togetha readers projects you are currently working on?
I recently partnered with L’Oreal-USA and the Mizani Brand as a Creative Consultant and Multi-textured Expert on product development. I’ll  bringing my experience and innovative ideas to Mizani as a writer and specialist in the natural textured hair care market. I’m proud to say that the Mizani products that I’m promoting will are free of: petrolium, mineral oil, and lanolin and filled instead with Shea, Coconut and Cocoa Butters. Currently I’m promoting the Whipped Coconut Souffle and the ButterRich HairDress.

Why do you feel its important for women to live their best lives?
So often we women do for others all our lives. Meaning we’re always giving before we take care of ourselves. So before life passes by its important to live each and everyday in the moment and to the fullest. Always give thanks and praise for every opportunity and blessing that comes our way. That’s how you live life to the fullest!

What’s the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you and what’s the best piece of advice you can offer?
A mentor once told me when you set your ego aside you remove all obstacles from your path. Now you are ready to receive as well as give freely without judgement. The best advice I could give is to DREAM BIG, follow your dreams, receive the gift, and be persistent.

At Get Togetha we share ideas on influence and inspiration. Who or what inspires you to do what you do?
I truly believe as we go through this journey we call life that you will meet those who mentor and inspire. They introduce you to new and innovative concepts as well as help you mature and develop your own so that you can inspire others. My inspiration comes from fashion, music, art, interior design, architecutre and because I’m extremely visual all things of color and nature.

That’s awesome Diane…what is your lifestyle preference? City Slicker Suburban Sprawl, Country Home or Your Own Johnny Depp Island?
I’ve been a city slicker in my early adult years but now I love Suburban Sprawl. I’m moving toward that paradise island.

What decor colors are you drawn to neutrals or Michell O inspired color?
It’s funny the way you mention the Mrs. Michelle is a great inspiration for all women with her timeless pieces, classic style and her colorful sweaters. I’ve always loved color: oranges, gold, and ambers…but I like to mix it up with whites creams and taupe in the summer and black and browns in the winter.

And lastly if you could have anyone over for dinner alive or dead who would you invite and what would you serve?
I’d have to say Madame CJ Walker. I would have a deep conversation with her and I would serve her her favorite foods. However I eat very healthy so I’d probably also serve salmon and couscous, scallops with mushroom and spinach, a green salad with goat cheese and white wine.

Posted by gt on June 16, 2009

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