It’s the beginning of a new season.  The phone is ringing and the email box is full….Everyone wants an update, a change, something new.  Me Too!  I have worn the same haircut or variation of the same style (short) for the past few years-it seems like forever. 

I’m always telling people that one of the best things you can do for yourself to update your look, feel younger and more vibrant is to update your hairstyle.  For many reasons, I like  change-it’s interesting.  So, because it is a new season, I went to my hairstylist and began a discussion with her about changing my style.

This started the end of  July, after I returned from vacation.  I wanted something new.  We began.  She suggested that I begin the process of growing out the layers.  Have you ever tried to grow out your layers? Your bangs?  It is difficult to have any sense of style in doing so.  Patience,  creativity and alot of product is key.  

I was good for the first few trims, but last week just about did me in.  I have alot of  hair and it absorbs all the moisture in the air.  With the rain here in Atlanta over the past month, my hair has grown a mind of its own.

I knew I was in trouble when my son (always the honest observer) told me that my hair looked like something out of the 80′s.  I told him, that was the “style” right now.  (I didn’t mention that it was the style in clothing-not hair!)  I phoned my hairstylist on Wednesday night in frustration and left a message that if I didn’t get it soon, I was going to cut my “mullet” off.  Fortunately, she called the next morning as said I had scheduled an appointment for Friday. 

Friday came, the “mullet” came off and I have a reprieve for another 4 weeks.  She encouraged me that we were almost there.  “Where” I ask is “there”?  Well, we almost have enough hair to cut into a new style.  So, this much I know is true:

1. If you want a totally new hairstyle it will take at leat 3 months of fussy patience and checking in with the salon IF you have layers or short hair.
2. You have to have ENOUGH hair to actually cut to make a difference.
3. Patience is strategic and systematic check in’s with the salon (at least every 4 weeks) during the process.
4. Different styling products are imperative (you may need lighter products to begin with and heavier more controlling products toward the end of the cycle)
5. Focus on the end result and try not to fight mother nature.  If you have wavy hair, sometimes it is best just to go with it while it is growing.

So, perhaps when we meet again after my next styling session, you’ll get to see the final “do”.  I’ll take a few snaps, but only after it’s finally finished so you can see the process/progress and you can tell me what you think!  Until then,  you know I want you to:

“Look good, feel great, and have fun doing it!”

Want to copy this article?  You must copy the entire article including the following information.  Karen C. Hughes, AICI CIP Image Assets, email:  Karen@ImageAssets.net, on the web: www.ImageAssets.net

Posted by: Karen Hughes, Founder of Image Assets, an Image Consulting Firm serving the Alpharetta and Metro Atlanta areas. As a seasoned certified image consultant, Karen follows a simple philosophy: educate, empower, and enrich the lives of her clients. Her philosophy is enmeshed throughout her practice and can be observed in her workshops, clinics, and one-on-one consultations. Her energetic and interactive style makes her a sought-after training resource for organizations and individuals alike. Even the most difficult topics seem effortless for Karen as she tackles such challenges as professional etiquette, business dress personal image and body shape.