In her statement welcoming the crowd to the Head to Toe Hair and Fashion Extravaganza Saturday night at the Tacoma Elks Lodge, Judy Neal, owner if Valentino’s Hair and Wig Boutique mentioned Don Imus, and suggested, “I’m happy to be nappy.” It was an ironic moment, since the hair on show was all kinds of up-to-the-minute, ultra-chic artistry.

The vibe of the evening was decidedly upbeat and purpose-driven, with improvised live music setting a backdrop of excitement that blended one moment seamlessly into the next.  Pam Bowman and Quiana Davis, and the Royalty Dancers also lent to the very classy feel to the evening. The presence and appreciation of the pastors in presence was also a nice touch.

Some segments were skits, while others were dance numbers.  Sets were organized by salon, highlighting the talents of eight salons with several designers in each one.

Designers were promenaded and lauded with their styles, which included braids, updos, falls, extensions, innovative cuts, and amazingly creative combinations of these elements.

The Grand Finale featured a dance number. I was almost confused about the hair there â€" It was covered in intricate wraps, which I thought were the hair art.  I was, happily, wrong, and learned in the process that these kinds of wraps are recommended for helping care for some of these elaborate styles.

Stools were set up on stage, and stylist Heylina Wright emerged.  With energy and élan, she unwrapped the models’ heads and brushed out the styles she had previously created; two of my favorite styles actually belonged to a mother daughter pair, though the piece de resistance ponytail with fabulous flip front was also gorgeous.

It was a divine end to an inspired evening. â€" Jessica Corey-Butler