LOVEABLE CURLY-HAIRED MOP-TOP Chas Davis shocked and astounded his fans yesterday when he appeared in public without his trademark ringlets.

"A few persuasive females suggested a free-of-charge hairstyling," Davis explained. Students Carolyn "CK" Kennington and Annie Carey "tag teamed", according to Davis, while Jasmin Conner did "baby cornrows" to keep Davis's unruly bangs in check.

"It was curiosity," Davis told me, relaxing in his Via Lapis apartment late Thursday afternoon. "I wanted to know how long it has gotten without curls."

However, those who witnessed Chas Davis in a curl-free state were unconvinced of its aesthetic value.

"I heard shrieks of disgust," Davis said, shaking his head. "There were expressions of disapproval. Let's be honest- it wasn't a flattering look for me."

By Thursday morning, Davis's bountiful curls had sprung back to life. "All it took was a quick shower," Davis explained, holding a bottle of Palmolive shampoo.

Did no-one appreciate the labor of love of Annie Carey and her electric hair straightener?

"There were compliments," Davis stressed. "But I believe they were not sincere."

Even Annie Carey was not impressed with the results. "I thought it looked kinda creepy," she said.

Student Kevin Zazzali, meanwhile, took a different approach.

"I went to the barber," he said. "A man doesn't need a stylist-- he needs a barber!"