Mane Concerns - A Hairy Topic

Now that we’ve got those kids heading back to school and out of our collective hair before the holiday season is upon us, we can untangle a few things. Like a fresh look for fall for you, Glamour Puss! Starting from the top, I’ve got tips so you’ll be razor sharp and haircut savvy! I went to my stylist of choice, Bobby Pierce (401-6696). While I'm thinking of it - he will work miracles to get you in. I ask you when was the last time someone did that for you???

Top What NOT to do:

• Do NOT go in, tell the stylist you want a change but not change the cut or color (really, this happens all the time!). If you do want a change, be prepared to explain what kind of change you’re looking for such as length, style, color. For example, when I was driving a cute, red, 2-seater convertible, my specific request was to have a hair cut that could go topless … so to speak.
• Do Not expect your stylist to be a mind-reader. If you don’t know what you want, make an appointment for a consultation, not a cut. During this time, you can look through images, discuss your likes, and options.
• Don’t expect a cut to dramatically change your hair. An excellent cut will flatter your features and suit your lifestyle and personality.
• Don’t show up late for an appointment. If you’re 10 minutes late, the stylist has 10 fewer minutes to do an excellent job. Now, if your stylist runs late consistently, make a habit of calling the salon before you leave for the appointment to check to see how s/he’s running time-wise that day.
• Don’t bring your posse. Your friends disrupt your stylist’s concentration and often times get in the way. Instead, meet the girls for lunch or drinks afterwards so they can ooh and aah.
• Don’t necessarily change your hair when things aren’t working in your life. I love a style change, but think about it: What if you hated your life AND your hair?! Drastic measures may have to be taken.
• On the same token, Bobby advises that you should never let a stylist talk you into a radical change. Phase it in. Especially if you and your stylist are developing your relationship. I’ve been going to Bobby for nearly 6 years. I know his mother makes too many quilts and gives them away as presents. He has a weakness for kittens. I won’t tell you what he knows about me except to say, we almost have a mind-meld. If you are not this tight with your stylist, don’t let him/her call the shots.
• If you are changing your hair, tell the stylist to be conservative with the cut.
• Don’t get stuck in a rut. Bobby advises that after 2 years, you should change your cut. You don’t want to be one of those ladies in their late 60’s who has had the same cut for 40 years and everybody wonders who in the world is still making a living outside a nursing home doing pin curls!
• Don’t slide into the chair and say, “I love what you did to my hair 3 times ago.” Your stylist has performed about 500 hair cuts since then, two being on you, and has absolutely no recollection of the cut. If you want the cut from 3 times ago, bring a photo of your cut to help refresh memories.

Here are some hair style DO’s:

• Choose the right shampoo and conditioner. If you want lots of volume, which, by the way is going to be big for fall, choose products that say “Extra Volume” on the label.
• Find the right hairstylist. Ask people whose haircuts you like. Karen Lehane formerly of NBC-13 turned me on to Bobby. I think she has great style, plus she’s really smart. Always a great combo with great hair!
• Maintain your style. Know how long it takes your hair to grow out. For most non-ethnic people it’s somewhere between 4-8 weeks. In the warmer months, hair grows faster.
• After a certain age, short hair on women becomes more flattering. To the face, to the energy, and to the over-all look. Short lengths lifts the face and is generally more healthy, vibrant hair, therefore projecting a more healthy, vibrant person. You look ready for life with short hair. I have short hair, and it’s not because I’ve reached a “certain age”; it’s because I think short hair is sassy and I’m sorta’ sassy, ergo ….
• Ask your stylist to talk you through how to style your new haircut while s/he’s styling it. Many times, you can practice in the chair. Most people don’t know this.
• The same basic cuts never go out of style – it’s how they are styled. You can never go wrong with a classic bob or layers. Mullets, not so much. It’s the variation on styling the cuts that keep your cut looking up-to-date.

Looks for the Fall:

• Red is the new blond. Wa-hoo!
• Colors go “warm” instead of “brassy”
• Curls are back. We’re talking body waves, round brush, and maybe spirals. The flat look of the 1970’s is gone. And curly-headed women will be heard sighing the collective sigh of relief. Adieu, flat iron!
• Easy and quick to fix. Great news for those lucky divas driving convertibles!

I’m off to book another appointment with Bobby before you start hogging all his appointment slots. XOXOXO