Happy New Year! Party styles and salon specials

Oh what a year 2012 has been! Many highs and many lows – but what would the mountains be without the valleys right?! Bring on 2013 we say!

As we head into New Year’s celebrations, we have a few more style suggestions to share with you! If you need some assistance creating a stunner look for your various soirees, we are but a phone call away! Be quick - we’re filling up fast with New Year party blowdries!

Also, make sure you take advantage of our January special: Half-head of foils for HALF PRICE! Now that’s a great way to start the year!

New Heights Scarlett Johansson’s voluminous wavy ‘do is a perfect style for a cocktail evening or dinner party – sophisticated and sassy in one!	Rollin' Waves No matter the occasion, you just can’t go wrong with soft, natural-looking curls. Kirsten Dunst’s deep side-parting and subtly defined ringlets are all class!
Laced in place Side swept or centre-parted like Nicole Ritchie, a sleek French plait is great for day soirees. If you have the length, English braid your remaining tresses or twist them into a bun. For shorter hair, tuck any loose ends under or into your braid.	Quifftastic Whether your hair is short or long, a quiff is a winning party style. Paired with a French roll (like Carey Mulligan), simple chignon, or half up/half down style - a quiff can add a bit of edge to your elegance.

Check out last week's article for more Festive-season styles to take the stress out of your New Year's celebrations.

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!

*All images courtesy of Zimbio.com. Nicole Ritchie image courtesy of StyleBistro.com 

Merry Christmas! Festive-season styles to take the stress out of the celebrations.

Only 1 day until Christmas! Woohoo!

The party season is in full swing, and with the inevitable influx of festive celebrations we thought you might need some hair inspiration and support.

Take the stress out of dolling yourself up by booking an appointment with us! We are open between Christmas and New Years, so take advantage and have your special occasion blowout or up-do created by the Wellbeing Salons team. Check out our opening hours, book your spot, and choose your style....

Halo Braid Halo braids are divine, but Dianna Agron’s fish-tail plait really is the cherry on the top. With a slightly dishevelled texture, this style is an effortless crown of laced beauty. For more braided inspiration see our ‘Braid beauty’ article.	Hair Tinsel Adding a piece of hair glitz is a great way to Ritz-up a basic style. A dainty jewelled accessory, like Jenna Dewan’s tiara provides the dazzle you need to go from pretty to pretty stunning! Find some great accessory options in our article ‘Bedazzle your hair’.
Elegant Waves Reach glamour perfection with vintage waves like Jessica Chastain’s red carpet number. Lustrous and side-swept this style is super chic! Learn how to create similar curls using your hair straightener here.	Top Notch The humble bun becomes immaculate elegance with a few quick tricks. Like Rosie Hungtinton-Whiteley’s perfect topknot, it’s all about achieving a sleek, high and perfectly formed bun. Here’s the how-to to recreate this look.

*All images courtesy of Zimbio.com

 HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Christmas & New Year Hours

Holiday Hours for Richardsons Hair in Northampton:
(Bookings line 01604 631984)

Monday 24 Dec (Xmas Eve)		9am to 1pm
Tuesday 25 Dec (Xmas Day)		Closed
Wednesday 26 Dec (Boxing Day)		Closed
Thursday 27 Dec		Closed
Friday 28 Dec		10am to 6pm
Saturday 29 Dec		8am to 4pm
Sunday 30 Dec		Closed
Monday 31 Dec (New Years Eve)		9am to 1pm
Tuesday 1 Jan (New Years Day)		Closed
Wednesday 2 January onwards		Normal hours

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Holiday Hours for Ice Hairdressing in Baldock:
(Bookings line 01462 616168)

Monday 24 Dec (Xmas Eve)		Closed
Tuesday 25 Dec (Xmas Day)		Closed
Wednesday 26 Dec (Boxing Day)		Closed
Thursday 27 Dec		Closed
Friday 28 Dec		10am to 6pm
Saturday 29 Dec		9am to 5pm
Sunday 30 Dec		Closed
Monday 31 Dec (New Years Eve)		Closed
Tuesday 1 Jan (New Years Day)		Closed
Wednesday 2 January		Closed
Thurday 3 January onwards		Normal hours

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Holiday Hours for Allure Hair & Beauty in Dunstable:
(Bookings line 01582 662355)

Monday 24 Dec (Xmas Eve)		Closed
Tuesday 25 Dec (Xmas Day)		Closed
Wednesday 26 Dec (Boxing Day)		Closed
Thursday 27 Dec		9am to 5pm
Friday 28 Dec		9am to 5pm
Saturday 29 Dec		9am to 5pm
Sunday 30 Dec		Closed
Monday 31 Dec (New Years Eve)		Closed
Tuesday 1 Jan (New Years Day)		Closed
Wednesday 2 January onwards		Normal hours

Christmas gift inspiration

We’re less than 10 days away from Christmas - a merry occasion of feasting, tipples, gifts and laughter with family and friends! How exciting...but preparations can also prove to be a little stressful!

If you’re a bit stumped on the pressie front and need a few gift ideas that don’t involve chocolates, socks or DVDs - we’ve got the perfect list for you! Wine hampers, hair-dos, jewellery and slippers…read on for Christmas gift inspiration…

Tatty Devine From personalised necklaces to creative cufflinks, you’ll be able to find reasonably priced, crafty British jewellery for even the most difficult to buy for. Shop online or at one of their two London stores.	Fortnum & Mason From wine collections to tea hampers, Fortnum & Mason offer a delightful range of confectionary, fresh foods, beauty products and leather accessories – all wrapped up in stunning gift baskets or boxes. Having been around since 1707 (when they supplied candles for the queen), you can guarantee Fortnum & Mason offer excellent gifts options.
Lush Luscious indeed! For fresh, handmade, organic beauty products and fragrances – Lush is your go to. With everything from soaps and shaving creams to lip balms and lotions, you’ll be able to find something for everyone here!	Alphabet Bags A young husband and wife team have a super cute online store that offers typographic and alphabet inspired tote bags, purses and more! Great stocking filler gifts!
Wellbeing Salons Pamper your loved one with a gift voucher from us! Treat your someone special to a cut, colour or treatment by simply phone or email us! Easy!	Cewe Photobooks Create your own personalised, super professional photobook for the ultimate keep-sake gift. It’s quick and easy to organise, and you can choose from a range of styles and sizes. A smart and sentimental pressie for friends and family alike.
Laduree For extraordinarily delectable edible gifts, you just can’t go past a special treat from Laduree at Harrods. A box of colourful macarons is sure to put the sweetest of smiles on anyone’s face!	Ruby + Ed Super cute slippers and winter snugglies. For practical but uber sweet gifts for all ages check out Ruby + Ed. Their Christmas gift sets of slippers and other winter snugglies are brilliant! Browse and buy online or at one of their UK stockists.

 

A quick note regarding our holiday hours: In most cases all three of our salons will be open as per usual during the Christmas and New Year's period. Contact us for more details.

3 simple styling tips for thick hair (plus an important reminder!)

 

First things first - We thought we’d better alert you to the fact that our pre-Christmas appointments are filling up fast! So if you’d like a trim, colour or full re-style you best book swiftly! Give us a call ASAP to guarantee yourself a spot.

Now, for the subject matter of the week… 3 simple styling tips for thick hair

It’s easy to blame bad hair days on the type of hair you have, but really it’s comes down to managing what you’ve got. Last week, we focused on fine hair – if that’s you, check out our styling tips for the finer ladies! This week, we’re concentrating on those of us with an abundance of hair.

If you have thick hair, you most likely wish you had less to deal with. Au contraire you voluminous vixens! Better to have too much hair than too little right?! It can seem like a bit of a burden to deal with your copious strands of beautiful, but here are some tips to lighten the load…

The cut: The most manageable hairstyles for thick hair are either nice and short – which makes style control easy, or longer layers with enough weight to hold your tresses down. Thinning and textured layers can do wonders for helping your style sit better naturally, as well as relieving you of some of the bulk. (Just as long as the layers aren’t so short that they add volume instead!) Come and have a chat with us about the best cut for your hair type, hair texture and face shape.

The blowout: The main issue for thick hair when it comes to blow-drying is the time it takes to style it. Your hair won’t hold any shape until it’s about 80% dry, so to help speed up the process, ditch some of the dampness by gently squeezing your hair with a towel and then roughly blow-drying your hair with your hands before converting to a brush to style. (A nozzle attachment is a great accessory for thick hair as it concentrates the heat and can help smooth out your hair.) For extra tips on how to create a beautiful blowout check out our article ‘The art of hairdrying’.

The products: Thick hair craves hair products that will infuse moisture, condition and control, and make styling manageable. Seek out shampoos and conditioners that are moisture-rich (deep conditioning treatments are a great addition too). Shine serums are a great styling tool for smoothing dense hair and controlling frizz.

The colour: It’s best to opt for high or low lights rather than a full colour as solid tones can make your locks look a little “wig” like. By combining a few complementary hues you can soften your style and lighten the density of your hair.

The wash: A common issue that comes with thick hair is an itchy, flaky scalp. Residue shampoo, conditioner or styling products on the scalp are the usual culprits. To avoid having this problem, make sure to wash and rinse your hair well. Read our article ‘Achieving a salon-standard hair wash at home’ for more tips.

 

3 simple styling tips for fine hair

It’s easy to blame bad hair days on the type of hair you have, but really it’s comes down to managing what you’ve got.

If you have fine hair, you’re forever after more volume. If you have thick hair, you most likely just wish you had less to deal with! Whatever hair type you’ve been blessed with, it’s time to celebrate (instead of curse) it.

This week we’re offering a few simple styling tips to help redefine fine hair. If you fall into the “thick hair” category, stay tuned for next week’s article.


3 simple styling tips for fine hair

Ok you fiiiine ladies! The aim of the game with your hair type is to fend off flat, limp locks and boost body and texture.

The blowout: Giving you’re hair a good blow-dry is a great way to add fullness to fine hair. With your head upside down, use a diffuser attachment on a medium heat to up the oomph of your blow-dry. Finish with a blast of cool air to lock in the volume. For extra tips on how to create a beautiful blowout (including achieving sleek & straight or voluminous waves) check out our article ‘The art of hairdrying’.

The products: The wrong type of product or too much of it can weigh fine hair down, resulting in limp, greasy looking locks. Seek out lightweight shampoos, conditioners and styling products that are tailored specifically for fine hair. A detangling spray is a lighter option that can substitute hair conditioner. Avoid gels and waxes, and opt for styling pastes and volumising mousses instead.

The cut: In fashion, you elect clothing that forms and highlights attractive contours in all the right places. So too can your hair be cut and styled in a way that forms body and texture where it is lacking. Opting for a cut that sits above the shoulder will automatically add fullness to fine hair. Likewise, adding balanced layers to any length hair is a great way to add shape and texture. Come and have a chat with us about the best cut for your hair type, hair texture and face shape.

An extra tip: When choosing a new hair colour, take note: darker shades can add dimension and the illusion of thickness to fine hair.

A few telltale signs that it’s time for a new hairstyle

[caption id="attachment_1086" align="aligncenter" width="400"] Image courtesy of Glamour.com[/caption]

It’s easy to get comfortable with a hairstyle. That, in and of itself is not a bad thing – if the hairstyle complements your finest features, is low maintenance and makes you feel like the best you! However, comfort can sometimes land us in a bit of a rut, leaving us feeling a little stale.

 

Updating your hair is a great way to stay vibrant and confident. A new ‘do can add dimension, fullness and a breathe of freshness to your look. Subtle changes like layering, a fringe or highlights can be all you need to revitalise your look. Extreme changes like shoulder-length hair to a pixie crop or a radical new hair colour can be surprisingly liberating too!

 

Here are a few telltale signs it’s time for an update:

 

High maintenance: If it takes longer than thirty minutes to style your hair or you require loads of product to tame your mane you are definitely in need of a new ‘do. A wash ‘n wear cut is a great option - here are a few options to consider.

 

Outdated: If you look at a picture of yourself from a few years ago and your hairstyle is exactly the same – you know it’s time for a change. Hair is one of our best accessories and just like fashion there are trends to follow (even if they’re just tweaks to classic looks). An out-dated cut or colour can add unwanted years to your appearance. Stay up-to-the minute and feel fresh and modern with a new cut.

 

The pull back trick: If you tie up or clip back your hair everyday because the thought of styling it is too much of a hassle or it never seems to look they way you want it to – you need a new chop! It’s time for a cut that is versatile and easy to style!

 

Lifestyle changes: If you’ve recently experienced a major life style change whether good or not so good, a new hairstyle can be a great way to face new challenges head on. A hairstyle that is both stylishly empowering but also practical to fit with your lifestyle, is what you want!

 

Colour conflicts: Hair colour can either flatter or flatten your complexion. Often we opt for a colour we like, rather than choosing a colour that complements our skin tone. If you’re skin seems to have a yellowy tinge or washed-out look, it’s probably time to try a new hue. Our article on the best hair colours for your skin tone can help you out.

 

Want the usual?: If you hear this line from your stylist every time you go to the salon, think about changing your answer next time! Consider asking you stylist about what they think would be the most flattering style for you.

 

Compliments: It’s nice to be admired for your style right?! When was the last time you received a compliment about your hair? Your ideal hairstyle should result in regular comments on how stunning you look and a few requests for the name of your stylist too! To find the most flattering styles for you, consider your face shape and the facial features you want to highlight. Check out our article ‘hairstyles to complement your face shape’ for more info.

 

If you can relate to a few of these situations, come in and visit us! We will do our utmost to ensure you achieve a new level of fabulousness that makes you feel comfortable, proud and beautiful.

Creating the perfect bun just got easier - thanks to a doughnut!

[caption id="attachment_1070" align="aligncenter" width="436"] Images courtesy of Ali Ro[/caption]

Although I’m a big fan of the edible kind of doughnuts, today we’re giving the spotlight to a golden ring that won’t add but a gram to those luscious hips of yours – a hair doughnut!

The hair doughnut (also referred to as a sock bun or bun ring) is a ring of soft, stretchy mesh padding that adds instant volume to your bun and can help you create a pretty flash up-do in a matter of minutes.

Padding is a wee trick that women have been using to pump-up their hair do’s (and other areas for that matter!) for centuries. A famous royal by the name of Marie Antoinette was well known for her extremely voluminous styles that could stand over 60 centimetres high thanks to hair padding. The ladies of the sixties also utilised hair padding to create their various iconic bouffants and beehives. Nowadays, we tend to be a little bit more understated, but creating a voluminous hairstyle that can stay put for hours is still something we aim to achieve.

Though the use hair padding is age-old, the hair doughnut has been particularly prevalent on the red carpet and high street alike over the past year, creating flawless Oscar-ready topknots and casual, low-sweeping chignons perfect for a weekend brunch.

Hair doughnuts are great for all hair types and particularly beneficial for those of us with shorter, finer hair. (They can also be a bit of a lifesaver for the ballet mums).

There are endless variations for creating a knockout up-do using a hair doughnut, but here is a step-by-step guide to a simple “doughnut” bun to get you started:

What you need:

• A hair doughnut (you can get these from your local beauty retailer (e.g. Boots)


• Hair tie


• Bobby pins


• Comb


• Hairspray

Note: When choosing a hair doughnut opt for the colour that best matches your hair to avoid your secret weapon being exposed. Select a size depending on how much hair your have to work with and how big you want to go.

Instructions:

1. Comb your hair and gather it into a ponytail on the part of your head where you would like your bun to sit (e.g. top-knot or low and on the side) and secure with a hair tie.


2. Take the doughnut and place your hair through the ring so that the doughnut sits against your head around the hair tie.


3. Gently tease your hair for added volume and pliability


4. Find the middle of your ponytail and from this point, spread your hair evenly over the top of the donut to cover it completely.


5. Depending on the length of your hair, tuck your locks under or wrap them around the bun and secure by pinning right the way around.


6. Complete your masterpiece with a spritz of hairspray (smoothing flyaways if you’re going for the sleek look)


7. You can make your bun tight and tailored - retaining the shape of the doughnut, or slightly loose and unstructured for a more casual, natural look.

Variations:

• Place the tip of your ponytail through the ring, find the centre of your ponytail and evenly spread the hair over the doughnut. Slowly roll the doughnut towards your head wrapping your ponytail evenly around the hairpiece and tucking loose strands under as you go.


• Once the doughnut is sitting around your hair tie, section your hair into 3 or more pieces. Fan each section into a wide band and then proceed to wrap the sections over and around the doughnut. You can save a few smaller sections to plait and pin over your bun for an added feature.

And just like that you have a stunner bun, and all thanks to a doughnut!

Tips for managing dry or oily hair

[caption id="attachment_1059" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Image courtesy of HealthViva.com[/caption]

Many of us are subject to dry, damaged or oily, greasy hair - these are not conditions to be tolerated! We have put together a few tips for managing dry and oily hair types, so that you can ensure your locks stay healthy, supple and glowing.

Go forth and claim stronger, silkier, more fabulous looking hair!

Dry Hair

Dry hair is due to a lack of your hair’s natural oils that maintain a healthy moisture, shine and texture. If you find that you hair is dull, coarse and prone to split ends, you more than likely fit into this category (curly hair is more susceptible).

Dry hair can be caused by a number of factors, both internal and external. Hormonal conditions such as an underactive thyroid or parathyroid can lead to dry hair, as can external factors such as excessive shampooing, heat styling or air conditioning.

Tips to managing dry hair:

• Get a haircut! Have your dry, split ends removed to make room for fresh, healthier locks.


• Shampooing washes away the oils that dry hair thirsts for, so try to shampoo less frequently (once or twice a week may be enough) and opt for quality shampoo designed for dry hair that will help restore moisture.


• Condition your hair after every shampoo with a quality conditioner. Try not to over rinse and consider a professional deep conditioning treatment every six to eight weeks.


• Brushing your hair well can help distribute your scalps moisturising oils down the length of your hair. Brush your hair with a soft-bristled hairbrush or wide toothcomb to avoid hair breakage.


• Heat sucks the moisture from your hair, so give hair dryers and heated stylers the cold shoulder. Try to air-dry your hair (with rollers for added volume) or consider a new “wash and wear” haircut that will air-dry in style.

Oily hair

Oily hair is due to overactive sebaceous glands on the scalp, resulting in the overproduction of your skins natural oil. The natural oils of your hair give a natural, healthy shine to your hair that keeps it conditioned, supple and strong, but too much results in greasy weighed-down locks (fine, straight hair is more prone to oily hair).

Oily hair can be hereditary, but other factors that can contribute to oily locks are stress, birth-control or menstrual medications and incompatible hair products.

Tips to managing oily hair:

• Wash your hair frequently with a quality shampoo designed for oily hair, that will remove excess oil without drying your hair out. Make sure you massage your scalp well to breakdown grease and product build-up, and rinse well.


• Reduce the frequency of your conditioning treatments (once or twice a week should be enough). Conditioners are important for locking in moisture and particularly nourishing the drier ends of your hair, but as your roots are already well moisturised by your skin’s natural oils, focus on the lower half of your hair rather than your scalp.


• Styling products can weigh down oily hair and cause a build-up of greasy residue. Stay clear of heavy styling products such as waxes and gels and stick to hairsprays and lighter styling pastes. Also, try to lighten up on the amount you use, the more product the more oil build-up.


• Cut back on your hair brushing. Brushing and “finger combing” your hair carries oils from your scalp down the length of your hair. Over-brushing also stimulates your scalps oil glands, which in turn will increase oil production.

Feel free to come in and chat with us about the best solutions for your hair!

Stylish ways to warm your head this winter

Daylight savings has come to an end, the days are getting shorter, colder and a little greyer (although the Autumn leaves are stunning at the moment). It’s time to get the winter woollies out and start snuggling up for the winter months – and what a great excuse to purchase a colourful headpiece to brighten the grey days and stay warm in style!

A winter hat is a practical accessory for keeping the cold out and the warmth in, while providing a great feature piece and a way to give your winter style a unique twist.

Here are a few of our favourite head-warmers for you to consider this winter:

Keeping it Cloche These twenties-inspired hats are chic and sophisticated. A cloche hat projects classic elegance with a feminine flare, while protecting your head and hair from the wind and rain. This is a perfect style for winter weddings and Christmas celebrations.
[caption id="attachment_1045" align="aligncenter" width="235"] £45.87 from Bloomingdales.com[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_1043" align="aligncenter" width="235"] £25 from TopShop.com[/caption]
Faux Fur Add an air of luxury to your jacket and jeans combo with a fur hat. Super stylish and snuggly too, fur hats are ideal for wandering through the Christmas markets and snow-covered parks, especially if you’re going to be snapping a few pictures (your sure to look fabulous)!
[caption id="attachment_1048" align="aligncenter" width="235"] £16 from ASOS.com[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_1047" align="aligncenter" width="235"] £18 from ASOS.com[/caption]
Peaking This style is a nod to the working and utilitarian classes of the thirties, forties and fifties. Smart and classic, short peaked woollen hats have a look that is both practical and classy. Have a bit of fun with patterns or stick to a block colour for a timeless accessory.
[caption id="attachment_1044" align="aligncenter" width="234"] £120 from Lacoste.com[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_1042" align="aligncenter" width="234"] £25 from TopShop.com[/caption]
Turbands The chic style of a turban combined with the warmth and practicality of a headband and ear warmer = a turband. A versatile winter hair accessory, turbands allow you to wear your hair in a variety of ways while keeping a snug and warm head – a great weekend wear. Try to find a turband colour that contrasts and complements your hair colour.
[caption id="attachment_1049" align="aligncenter" width="235"] £10 from ASOS.com[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_1046" align="aligncenter" width="235"] £57.12 from Shopbop.com[/caption]

Get the look: Bérénice Marlohe's Bond Beauty

Bond girls are the embodiment of sass, style and sophistication. At one point or another, all of us have wished we were one of them right? (Or is that just me?!

Skyfall is the latest addition to the James Bond collection, and marks the 50th anniversary of the famed series. Making her debut as a Bond girl in the new film is Bérénice Marlohe (as Sévérine) - and what an absolute stunner! The Parisian actress is a sultry piece of glamour and pulls off tousled, carefree class in typical Bond fashion. At the Paris premiere of Skyfall, Ms Marlohe sported this glam side-swept ‘do.

With the impending “end of year” events, this is a great style to master. It’s reasonably simple to recreate, and looks romantic and elegant with its loose curls and textured chignon.

• Begin by running a volume-enhancing mousse through towel-dried hair (to create texture)


• Throw your head upside down and give your hair a quick blow-wave so that your hair is about eighty percent dry


• To create voluminous curls, use a hair straightener (read “how to”) or roll and secure sections of your hair in rollers and blow wave your hair complete dry (use a paddle brush to blend the sections)


• Create a deep side parting and form 3 sections – fringe, top and sides/back


• Loosely pin your fringe off to the side and clip your sides/back section out of the way


• Comb the top section straight back and lightly tease it (focus on the crown of your head for additional volume) to create a slight bouffant


• Gather the teased hair together and after smoothing the top layer of hair, sweep the section off to the side (just behind your ear) and secure with hairpins


• Comb the sides/back section to join the “pinned” top section, and hold in a relaxed ponytail just behind your ear, at the nap of your neck


• Fashion a loose chignon by twisting your hair into a coil and securing with hairpins (it’s ok to let a few strands hang loose)


• Set the style with a spritz of hairspray.

Bond-beautiful!

Update your look with a fringe!

If you’re keen on updating your hairstyle, but don’t want to undergo any drastic changes - a fringe is the perfect option. The fringe is currently a big hit on the catwalk and red carpet with stars like Zooey Deschanel, Taylor Swift and Florence Welch championing the diverse look.

Adding bangs is like giving yourself a mini makeover. You can completely change your look, but it’s a low risk option because you can grow them out pretty quickly! Fringes are great for shoulder length hair and work best with hair that is naturally straight or slightly wavy.

Here are a few ways to wear bangs – why don’t you consider making the cut!

Full block Heavy eye or eyebrow skimming fringes like Jessica Biel's are great for drawing attention to your eyes. They’re reasonably low maintenance and can be cheeky, cute, sophisticated and elegant all at the same time! Block fringes are great for long and heart shaped faces, and best worn thick and long (just above the eyes).

Short & sharp This blunt fringe hits well above the eyebrows and is the ultimate statement maker. Inspired by the art-deco jazz age of the 1920s, short blunt bangs are fierce, sharp and sassy. This is a daring look that works perfectly for an oval face-shape like Rooney Mara’s (below), but stay clear of this look if you have a square face-shape.

Side-swept Oh, the romantic and softening look of a side swept fringe! This style frames the face nicely and provides a relaxed and effortless elegance (just like Rose Byrne, below). While side-swept bangs work for all face shapes, this is the best fringe option for round faces, as it will give the illusion of length.

Light & wispy A light choppy fringe like Alexa Chung’s is an easy, carefree option. Taking cue from Brigitte Bardot, wispy textured bangs is a versatile style that looks great straight forward and messy, centre-parted or swept to the side. This is a fitting choice for square faces as it can soften the angles.

Safeguard against split ends

Oh, the never-ending nuisance that is split ends! If we’re being honest, there’s no escaping split ends, however it is possible to minimise and prevent unnecessary damage.

Split ends (Trichoptilosis), is the vertical splitting or fraying of the hair shaft due to stress placed on the hair. Perming, colouring and using heated stylers strips your strands of the nutrients that keep them strong and moisture-rich, which leads to dull brittle hair that is prone to split ends.

Leaving damaged ends can lead to further breakage higher up the hair shaft. This can lead to hair shedding, which will inhibit your ability to maintain the length of your hair. It also makes it difficult to preserve styles such as curls or straightened hair.

Reduce the causes and safeguard against split ends by following these few simple tips…


Regular Trims
The only genuine way to rid yourself of split ends is to chop them off! Also, by removing at least a quarter of an inch off the ends you allow oxygen to reach the ends of your locks, creating a foundation for strong, healthy hair. Regular trims every six to eight weeks are recommended.

A quality clean
To maintain hydrated and nourished locks and prevent your hair from drying out, you need to invest in a quality moisturising shampoo and conditioner.  A leave-in conditioner or regular salon deep-conditioning treatments are also a great way to preserve moisture. For more information on choosing quality haircare, read our “Looking after your locks” article

Gently does it
Your tresses are fragile. Rough, repeated brushing and combing equals damaged hair. Use a hair-friendly tool for smoothing out your locks – a wide-toothed comb is the best option for thicker hair. Be gentle when detangling, start at the ends and work your way up (it’s best to do this when you hair is dry). Try not to brush your hair too much; intensive brushing creates more split ends!

Keep a cool head
Heat draws moisture from your locks, consequently, regular use of hot stylers leads to dry and brittle hair. Try to cut back on your heated-styler usage and when using hairdryers, curling and straightening irons, consider using a heat protectant to help retain your hair’s moisture.

 

Celebrity style inspiration

Happy October everyone! It’s hard to believe we’re nearing Christmas! Phew - how time flies!

September was a great month for following the “A-listers” as they paraded the red carpet at high profile events including London Fashion Week, the Emmy Awards and the NYC Ballet Fall Gala.

We love a good celebrity-infused event for a healthy dose of hair inspiration. And although you may not have 24-hour access to a professional stylist like these lovely ladies, you can breathe life into your daily hairstyling routine by gleaning ideas from the following looks, and having a wee play! Enjoy!

[caption id="attachment_946" align="aligncenter" width="230"] Image courtesy of Elle UK[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_945" align="aligncenter" width="199"] Image courtesy of Early Sunset Over Monroeville[/caption]
At London Fashion Week, Poppy Delevigne paraded a plaited up-do that was perfect for taking her from front row at the Matthew Williamson fashion show, right through to the Rag & Bone homecoming-party. Check out our “Braided beauty” article, for tips on how to create a similar style.	For the Mulberry Spring/Summer 2013 show at Claridge’s, Alexa Chung went for casual chic, with a quick and easy topknot. Her cute fringe and the wispy layers that framed her face made for a relaxed, natural beauty – a no fuss style, perfect for your weekend soirees.
[caption id="attachment_944" align="aligncenter" width="201"] Image courtesy of Celebrity Red Carpet[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_942" align="aligncenter" width="199"] Image courtesy of Zimbio[/caption]
Sarah Jessica Parker looked absolutely divine at the New York City Ballet's Fall Gala, wearing a gorgeous Valentino Couture dress in honour of Valentino Garavani. Her glamorous look was perfected with an elegantly swept-back bun and mauve rose clip - an elegant look that can carry you from work to dinner date.	Also donning a Valentino Couture gown, Anne Hathaway looked super sophisticated with a side of sassy at the Ballet Gala. Her easy wash and wear crop was side swept with an edgy feathered texture – such a versatile and simple style. We just love Ms Hathaway’s short hair; it really makes those stunning eyes pop!
[caption id="attachment_943" align="aligncenter" width="211"] Image courtesy of Beauty 411[/caption]	[caption id="attachment_949" align="aligncenter" width="207"] Image courtesy of Beauty Editor[/caption]
The lovely Zooey Deschanel brought old-hollywood-glam to the 64th Annual Emmy Awards with a sixties-inspired bouffant and low chignon. Her darling signature fringe kept the style looking soft and feminine. Read our Fearne Cotton “Get The Look” article, for advice on fashioning bouffant brilliance.	Homeland star Claire Danes sported glamourous curls at the Emmy’s. With a deep side parting and elegantly formed yet natural-looking waves, this style is a great way to vamp up your regular blow wave. To replicate Ms Danes curled locks, refer to our article “The way of the hair straightener.”

Get the look: Fearne Cotton’s beehive beauty

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Last week, on the eve of London Fashion Week, Fearne Cotton launched her latest clothing line for Very.co.uk, and both lady and designs were bright, bold and bouffantastically retro!

Joining the ranks of bouffant lovers such as Adele and Katy Perry, Fearne Cotton is proof that big is beautiful and the sixties are still very much in vogue!

If you’re keen on freshening up your day-to-day hairstyle repertoire, we think Ms Cotton’s beehive style is a brilliant addition! Whether you opt for sleek and elegant or rough and edgy, the beehive is dramatic, fresh and super trendy.

Replicate Fearne Cotton’s look by following these simple steps:

• Begin by running a volume-enhancing mousse through towel-dried hair to create texture


• Throw your head upside down and roughly blow wave your hair for volume


• Create your desired parting and form 3 sections (front, top/middle and back)


• Taking the top/middle section, tease your hair from the roots to the ends focusing on the crown of your head for additional volume


• Slightly smooth and gather the teased hair together, and shape it into a beehive of your preferred height - secure with hairpins


• Draw the front sections back to join the secured “beehive” section and pin together (leave a few strands loose to frame your face)


• Take the back section (adding any free hair leftover from the beehive) and loosely pull your locks back into a relaxed ponytail just above the nap of your neck


• Fashion a simple French roll by twisting the ponytail upwards and inwards against your head (If you have long hair you’ll need to twist and fold the end of your ponytail back down, tucking the end into the French roll)


• Secure the twist in place with hairpins (horizontally).


• Complete your masterpiece with a generous spritzing of hair spray

Absolutely fabulous darling!

Autumn hair advice

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A chill is starting to intrude on our precious summer warmth, and the leaves will soon begin to float off the trees as a prelude to the impending winter. Sigh!

Before you cosy down into hibernation, we recommend tending to the dreary reality of the colder months, with a bit of hair TLC. Give your locks and your mood a bit of va va voom with our Autumn hair advice…

A boost of colour
Though the days are growing darker, consider going lighter with your hair! With a sinking sun and less time outdoors your skin tone will lighten up, so you should respond by lifting your hair colour to a lighter or warmer shade (bright and rich browns can make pale skin look super radiant). For more tips on how to find a fresh new hair colour, read our “Hair colour for your skin tone” article.

Rehydration
After dousing your hair with heat and UV rays over the past few months, there’s a good chance your locks are in need of some replenishment. The summer elements tend to cause moisture loss - leaving your hair dry, brittle and split-endy. Reclaim a moisture-rich and glossy hair condition, by having your damaged ends snipped off and re-nourish your tresses with a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask.

Scalp stimulation
Giving your head a good knead is well worth the effort! As well as facilitating the removal of build-up, it also stimulates blood circulation in the scalp - which keeps those roots active and encourages hair growth. Consider giving yourself (or conning somebody else into giving you) a scalp massage. Spread your fingertips slightly, and apply strong pressure to your scalp. Using circular and back and forth motions, massage your head - beginning at the nape of your neck. Continue up behind and above the ears, then on the top and the front of your head. Focus on moving the skin on your scalp rather than just your fingers.

Eating well
It’s easy to eat well in the warmer months with all the delicious fruits and summer salads, but the winter months tend to temp us with our favourite comfort foods! Your diet absolutely effects the state of your tresses, so you need to ensure your daily sustenance is packed with nutrient-rich foods that contain protein, zinc, iron, B vitamins and essential fatty acids. If you’d some suggestions of some yummy foods that are great for your hair, refer to our “Healthy foods for healthy hair” article.

Let's here it for the boys!

As women, we can be quite fanatical about enhancing our physical appearance and staying up to date with the latest trends. When it comes to hair and beauty chat, the ladies are generally up with the play - but the “masculine” sex is quite often neglected. Keeping up appearances is just as important to guys as it is to girls – they’re just less likely to admit!

This week, we thought it was high time we gave the boys some stage time; so we’re featuring three of the hottest hair trends for men this year. Whether you're a chap or the “influencer” of one, here are a few styles to inspire your next cut…

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The Quiff Inspired by the rock n roll and country stars of the fifties, the quiff is a modern take on the rockabilly style donned by such greats as Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. With short sides and back, and longer textured layers on top - today’s versions are versatile and distinctive offering both slick and clean-cut and roughed up and shaggy. Whether you opt for shorter or longer layers, side-parted or slicked back, the quiff can work for most hair types and face shapes. If your hair is thick – get your stylist to take some of the weight out of your hair to make this style more manageable.

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The Undercut A key trend for 2012 is the undercut. Taking its cue from the nineteen twenties, this style’s focus is the hair lengths. The sides and back and are super short, with considerably longer layers through the top. There should be a disconnection between the longer hair on your crown and the rest of your hair - with no graduated blending. Slick your hair to the side or straight back for a groomed swagger, or for a more relaxed tousled look - run your fingers through your hair and let the style separate and fall naturally.

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The Brit-Rocker Think The Beetles, Oasis or The Artic Monkeys and you’ll get the gist of what we mean by “brit rocker”. Again there’s length through the top, but in this case the cut is more graduated with a focus on texture. The hair sweeps forward to create a fringe – best swept to the side (a manly hair flick will do the trick!). The brit-rocker can head down the path of a more tailored style (as with the above version), or a more of a rugged and edgy look – you choose!

The power of a new hairstyle

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A haircut is not merely a “must-do” affair. It can be an energizing, relaxing and pampering experience that enhances your natural beauty and transforms your perspective.

Have you noticed how much of a psychological effect a haircut has on you? Your hair is a fundamental component of how you feel about yourself. A new hairstyle has the ability to transition you from feeling unsatisfied to excited, drab to fab!

A haircut produces an elected physical change to your body at super speed. You can completely change how you look in a matter of hours - from blonde to brunette, short to long, curly to straight. As well as producing a physical change, a haircut instigates a perceptual change in how we view ourselves, an unleashing of a new you – liberation! You go in as one you and come out as a vibrant, new you!

I’m sure you’ve noticed that we quite often opt for new hairstyles as we make life transitions such as a new job, a new age, a new relationship or a new child - when we start something new, we like to feel new too! As your lifestyle changes, so too should your hairstyle - it should evolve as you do! If you’ve been stuck with the same style for a few years, consider a change.

Likewise, if you find yourself stuck in a rut and looking to make some positive lifestyle changes, a haircut is a great place to start. Whether subtle or drastic, a great new style can gets the ball rolling towards a revamped, energised, distinctive YOU! It could simply be adding a fringe or a few feathery layers to frame your face, a few highlights, a radical new hair colour or a big chop. No matter what you opt for, a fresh hairstyle can truly be a revitalising, confidence-building event!

If you’re starting to feel like you’re in need of a morale boost or you’re ready for a change– take action and come visit us! If not for a haircut, then maybe a new hair colour. We’ll do our best to help you realise your ultimate image - so that you leave feeling happier and looking more fabulous than we you arrived!

Bedazzle your hair

The fastest way to Ritz-up a basic hairstyle is to bedazzle with accessories! Whether you opt for hair up or down, you can transform your hairdos from plain Jane to just plain fabulous by adorning your locks with a few embellishments.

Accessories of various shapes and sizes are being clipped, slipped and pinned into place as headbands and hair clips are taking centre stage in the Autumn/Winter fashion trends.

If you fancy dressing up your tresses, here are a few decorative pieces to try-out…

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Crowning Glory Adorn your crown with a jewelled or flower-filled headband for a lavishly feminine style. For a sweet and preppy look, wrap a thin black band over a bouncy blowout (think Adele) or slicked-back high ponytail.
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Chunky Barrette Clips Give your up-do a mini makeover by simply adding an embellished barrette clip to the mix. Super classy and practical too, barrette clips can give your up-do an air of sophistication while fixing your style in place.
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Decorated Combs Effortlessly enhance a simple chignon or messy bun by slipping in an embellished hair comb – be sure to give your tresses a little bit of backcombing to help hold the clip in place.
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Pretty Pins Add a subtle but sweet touch to any hairstyle with the humble bobby pin. Sweep your hair to one side and secure with a group of bold, colourful pins for a modern twist on the twenties. Or, try a statement hairpin complete with a giant rose or sparkling ensemble for a chic and sassy display piece.