so i have had this hair style for approximately 7 years… once in a while i dye or highlight it to mix it up or change the bangs, but this is a long time for one style.  i used to LOVE it and get so many compliments but lately it seems it is uber popular and i am seeing so many people with this style. i need advice. should i let my hair grow out?? is it worth it? should i cut it shorter? help! i like the short hair because it is so simple. i’m afraid when i used to have long hair i just wore it in a pony tail everyday… i work in a professional environment, i am mid 20’s and i want to look my age, not like a high school student!

http://a632.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/98/l_d0769f5be9c221aa4fed25dbc51b2b47.jpg

Well, judging from the photo, your hair is super cute and in style. However, I’m a frequent hair style changer myself, and I can understand why you’re ready for something different. You didn’t say what type of hair you have—if it’s like mine, fine and on the thinner side, long hair isn’t always the best option.

Here’s my two cents—let it grow out for a bit and see how it shapes up. When I’m unsure, I opt to let it grow out—if it drives me absolutely crazy, I become more committed to a short cut—or, if I like a little extra length, I go to the salon and get my hairstylist’s input on shaping it as it grows. Try tucking it behind your ears or using cute clips to get a feel for different shapes as well.

To be honest, though, I’m going through the same thing right now. Anyone else have some great advice?

Oh, I love your hairstyle. It frames your hair nicely and the color is complements your skin tones.
I agree with Angela. Let it grow out a bit, see how you like it.

ok I know this will sound crazy but.... go for extensions.  They have great clip ons that you could use to make a pop here and there.  That way you can grow out your hair to a length and choose a style from scratch.  In addition you wont have that awkward growing out stage Besides it’s so fun.  Hair is another accessory.

Shoeshopping Goddess—or anyone else—have any recommendations on brands or budget-friendly sources? I’ve always been interested in extensions, but worried what they would do to my beauty budget, and also that the quality might not be what it should be . . .

Well .... you can find any local beauty supply store with hair extensions.  The price will depend on wether you want synthetic hair vs. human hair, individual fusible (fused hair extensions can last up to three to six months with professional application and proper care) vs. sewn in tracks (that are sewn into your own braided hair underneath lasting up to three months max).

I prefer to have a hair dresser match the hair and order the appropriate hair herself.  However, if you’d like to shop online try www.indianchild.com or simply google hair extensions.  Again you can go to an everyday beauty supply and find hair some easy versions can be removed/place with some cute clips, bands, and barretts.

But my strong recommendation is to always have them placed by a licensed beautician.  Don’t get me wrong it’s actually quite an investment in the beginning.  But if you buy quality to begin with and care for them properly you can keep the extension in for 3 - 6 months. 

And its fun, freaky, and the ultimate accessory next to SHOES of course!

Ooops I forgot, I like SAGA brand, human hair.  The texture is so smooth.  It’s what I’m wearing now and even my family couldn’t tell the difference.  And I purchased it at a local beauty supply for a little more than $100. I have it redone every 3 months or so.

you’ve got great hair! i don’t know much about extensions. does it come off after a shower?

depends on what type of extensions you get....

- There are the clip on brands (try the brand Jessica Simpson.. it’s actually good)- which are cheaper and you can remove them at anytime

- there are the more permanent kind that are either sewn in or glued in. These are pretty pricey- but last several weeks to months.

My advice: Your hair is super cute, try adding some clip-on extensions to add length to the back of your hair. I would also suggest looking into color- you would be a fabulous red head.

glued in?!?! is that healthy?

Hi,

Your hair looks really good and i feel it will look the best if you have let it grow a little more. You try shading Burgundy as i feel it will suit your complexion.

curlytop - 19 February 2008 03:50 AM

glued in?!?! is that healthy?

Well....
No, not really, but it’s a special kind of bonding glue in which the stylist glues the tracks (extensions are sewn into a thin base) to the scalp.

The sewn version and/or the interlocking versions are better for your hair. But folks still glue

oh...so that’s how it’s done. i was really imagining about hair extensions being super glued to the scalp! lol.