You Get What You Pay For: Haircuts

August 30th, 2010 by Laney

1 Comment

   

As I’ve been moderating the comments for the Dooney & Bourke Giveaway, I’ve noticed a trend.  Over and over, one requests keeps popping up:  more hair posts.  I want y’all to know that I hear you loud a clear, and will commence immediately (well, okay, as soon as I can) to amass thorough selection of posts on hair styles, trends, colors, and anything else your pretty little hearts may desire.

I know that overall, “hair posts” are wildly outnumbered by articles on lip gloss, cute boots, and what the stars are wearing.  In great part, this is due to my relationship with MY hair.  My hair is short, I color it at home (generally disregarding the season’s “in” color for whatever suits my fancy), and generally spend five minutes or less styling it in the morning.  So, all-in-all, I don’t give my hair THAT my consideration.  Except…  For the past year or so, I’ve had terrible haircuts, one after another.  Changing stylists, changing salons, even changing STATES – and yet the hair nightmare has continued.

Today, I went to SuperCuts for the abso-freakin-lutely LAST time.  Normally, I wouldn’t call out a business like this…  But after the multitude of crappy “hairdressers” and even crappier haircuts, they deserve it.  I’m sure that in some places, somewhere, once in a while, they serve up a decent ‘do…  Sure.  But I’ve gone seven or eight times, with the same results.  And really, it’s reached a “shame on me” climax, because surely I should KNOW BETTER at this point.  But, no.  Sadly, I put my hair in their (incredibly incapable) hands once again.

I was thrilled to find time for a quick cut; I’m in the process of moving, just started a new job, am playing catch-up around here, and have classes starting in just a few days.  I’m so busy that adult diapers are starting to look like a plausible time saver.  Okay, maybe not, but you get the idea.  SO anyway, I went to freakin’ SuperCuts, regardless of the fact that RIGHT before BlogHer10 I got a hair cut there that left me self conscious the entire length of the convention.  I was slightly ashamed each time I introduced myself as a beauty blogger, and hoped that intense eye contact would keep anyone from looking at my bangs.

So, I brought a pictured this time – and no, not a totally implausible, completely radical, ridiculously UNrealistic photo.  In fact, I’ve basically had the hair cut before; I just wanted a photo to ensure that I communicated exactly what I wanted done.  The girl obviously had a poor attitude, right from the start.  I contemplated leaving before the cut even started, but I SO wanted a hair cut.  Bad move, damnit.

She barely glanced at the photo before she started snipping.  Then, she kept asking questions about how I wanted this area and that area…  Which seemed odd, since I kept holding up the photo and saying “I want EXACTLY this cut.”  Each time, she was highly dismissive, and kept cutting how she pleased.  After a while, I noticed that she was cutting it as if I would blowdry and style my hair towards the BACK of my head…  When based on the photo AND the style I had when I walked it, it was obvious I’d be doing the exact opposite.  Which meant she’d cut my bangs too short and “messed up the lines” (her words, not mine).

Each time I politely asked for a tweak (like, “could my bangs please be even?” or “could the sides please be shorter?”), she became bitchier – and ROUGHER.  By the end of the haircut, she was essentially whacking me in the head with the comb.  I was genuinely afraid she was going to “accidentally” nick me with the scissors, too.  This loveliness was accompanied by a stream of complaints and excuses for the poor job she was doing.

My hair is nothing like the picture.  I have no idea how I’m going to style the front, and am embarrassed to meet my new classmates (or even show up to work) with this “situation.”  I know, I know…  Not everyone is going to be judging me based on my bangs.  But it’s hard to feel super confident when something is so off.  I’m going to save up and get a “real” hair cut next time.

For $16, I didn’t expect a celebrity hair cut.  I didn’t expect the world’s greatest style, or most amazing look.  But it seems like there should be a base line of politeness, and ability to cut a straight line that all hair stylists should possess.  I’ve gotten the occasional nightmare style from an experienced stylist at a high end salon, too, but at least they f*cked up with finesse.

So now you now my shameful hair secret.  Hair is a topic I’d rather not contemplate, so I’ve avoided blogging about it.  But I’m sorry, and I’ll do better next time!  In fact, there are some very cute styles for fall that I’ll be discussing with you soon…

In the meantime, what was your worst salon (or at home) hair experience?  Share your story in the comments!



New from Conair: Infiniti Pro (Review & Giveaway) CLOSED

August 17th, 2010 by Laney

122 Comments

   

“Are you ready to take back the power?  Say goodbye to your hair Pro and hello to ours…  the new Infiniti Pro by Conair 1875-Watt Salon-Performance AC Motor Styling Tool puts salon-performance power in the palm of your hand!  The Infiniti Pro utilizes an AC (alternatinv current) motor, which is designed for hair stylists and salon use.  However this professional performance tool is 15 percent lighter than most AC motor dryers, making it easy to harness salon power at home.”

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had the same blow dryer.  I got it at some big box store back in high school, when $20 was a big deal for me (okay, it kind of still is).  It’s blue, weighs about ten pounds, and is so exhausting to use that I frequently clunk myself in the head with it.  Or, at least, I used to.  Conair graciously sent me the latest in greatest in the realm of blowdryers:  their Infiniti Pro.

Right away, I fell in love with the orange shade – it totally brightens up my bathroom AND my morning routine.  I cannot put into words how much I love this blow dryer.  It put my old one completely to shame – I might as well have hired a senior citizen to blow on my hair every morning.  The Infiniti Pro practically blows the hair off my head when I set it on high, which I imagine is a setting intended for long hair.  Low gets my short hair dry in a snap, and adds volume without killing my hair’s health or shine.

The AC motor is responsible for most of my hair drying pleasure.  Conair used this type of motor because it’s powerful, but still has a powerful air velocity (which dries hair faster and lessens exposure).  The “Cold Shot” button provides a blast of super cold air, which helps set style and give roots life.  AND, the AC motor has a life span three times that of the usual (DC) motor.

Beyond the benefits of the AC motor, the Infiniti Pro also creates neutralizing ions that seal the hair cuticle – which reduces frizz and enhances shine.  My hair looks so much healthier and prettier now than it did with my old blow dryer.  Plus, it has 3 heat levels (which I appreciate greatly when it’s sweltering hot), 2 concentrator attachments (to achieve a variety of styles), and a removable filter (to prevent lint buildup).

Contest Info:  Contest runs until August 25, 2010, 11:59 PM EST.  Giveaway is open to US Residents.  You must complete the Mandatory Entry before all extra entries will be counted.  Please leave a separate comment for each entry.

Mandatory Entry:  Tell me why you’d like to try the Infiniti Pro by Conair!

Extra Entries:

Fan Conair on Facebook – 1 Entry

Fan The Fashionable Gal on Facebook – 1 Entry

Follow Conair on Twitter – 1 Entry

Follow The Fashionable Gal on Twitter – 1 Entry

Subscribe to my newsletter – 1 Entry

Blog this Giveaway (leave a direct link) – 3 Entries

Add me to your Blog Roll – 3 Entries

Share anywhere else (i.e. Stumble, Digg) – 1 Entry per Location

Tweet using the following text – 1 Entry per Tweet, Max 2/Day (2 hours apart minimum)

#Win the new Infiniti Pro blow dryer from Conair (ARV $38.99) from @fashionablegal & @conair_hair!  http://wp.me/pbj1u-22V Please RT!



What the Buzz is About: Elnett Hairspray in the USA

July 1st, 2010 by Laney

1 Comment

   

Elnett Satin is the legendary hairspray of choice for red carpet events and cover photo shoots.  Its micro-diffuser spray offers a clean, soft shiny finish.  So fine, it disappears at the stroke of a brush.  So strong, its hold lasts all day.

Available in Extra Strong Hold, Extra Strong Hold travel Size, Extra Strong Hold for Color-Treated Hair, and Strong Hold.

I received a can of L’Oreal’s Elnett Satin in Extra Strong Hold recently.  I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about the hairspray, as it wasn’t previously sold in the US.  I read articles about people picking it up by the case when they found it out of country, and debates over whether the US formula is as good as the original.

I’m in the process of growing my hair out, which means a lot of awkward styling and too-short strands.  Pinning the my bangs, and the pieces framing my face, has been a real challenge.  Elnett Satin has played a key role in keeping these strands where I want them, even went they don’t quite make it into the clip.  Elnett Satin has also helped add volume to my hair on the days where I’ve left it down but didn’t want to lack volume.  I love that I can brush through my hair after I’ve added Elnett, without snagging or ruining the hold.

In the end, I’m not sure of Elnett Satin is the best thing to ever happen in the realm of hairspray…  But it’s certainly a great product.  Having touchable, styled hair is important to me and I certainly appreciate that aspect.  It does its job and lasts for hours, and I love that there’s a formula for color treated hair (which I haven’t tried yet).



Giveaway: Conair You Curl (ARV $49.99!)

June 14th, 2010 by Laney

152 Comments

   

This is Frank.  Frank gets mad when he sees bad hair.

“Is your curling iron ‘clamping’ your style?  Sometimes you just gotta loose!  Soft, sexy curls are now easy to create with the new Infiniti by Conair You Curl.  The You Curl has a unique, clamp-free design and a cone-shaped barrel that creates a softer, less structured curl.  Simply wrap hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds and then release.  The conical design allows the curls to start closer to the root, allowing more volume through the middle (larger portion of the barrel) and the bottom will have a tighter curl (small section of the barrel).  The effect is  trendy, free-flowing spirals with no ‘clamp kinks.’

The powerful ceramic heater features Tourmaline Ceramic technology which provides more protection, reduces frizz, helps eliminate static and does not have damaging hot spots.  The ultra-high heat levels are instantly restored during use, and the 5 LED settings provide the ideal temperature for all hair types.  The stay-cool safety tip protects fingers during use.”

Sometimes, you don’t realize how poorly your appliances are functioning until you try a new one.  For instance, I thought my blow dryer was doing just fine until I tried my roommate’s.  I might as well have been letting the cat blow on my hair, for all the good my blow dryer’s been doing.  The point is, even if you think your curling iron is doing just fine…  Chances are that Conair You Curl will blow your mind.

I love the no-clamp feature, and the whole new shape of the barrel.  Conair sent me a You Curl to check out and I’m really impressed with the new features.  It makes much more sense to have a wide base and then a more slender barrel to make naturally shaped curls.  It also gives you the option to wrap hair around one size only, if there’s a width of curl you prefer.  It’s slender and compact, so the Curl You won’t take up much counter space.  Plus, I like the red handle!

The Infinite by Conair You Curl is available nationwide, at mass market and drug stores.  It’s also available online from Conair.  The retail value is $49.99 – and one lucky gal is going to win a Curl You of her own!

Contest Info:  Contest runs until June 23, 2010, 11:59 PM EST.  Giveaway is open to US Residents.  You must complete the Mandatory Entry before all extra entries will be counted.  Please leave a separate comment for each entry.

Mandatory Entry:  Tell me why you’d like to try the Infiniti by Conair You Curl!

Extra Entries:

Fan Conair on Facebook – 1 Entry

Fan The Fashionable Gal on Facebook – 1 Entry

Follow Conair on Twitter – 1 Entry

Follow The Fashionable Gal on Twitter – 1 Entry

Subscribe to my newsletter – 1 Entry

Blog this Giveaway (leave a direct link) – 3 Entries

Add me to your Blog Roll – 3 Entries

Share anywhere else (i.e. Stumble, Digg) – 1 Entry per Location

Tweet using the following text – 1 Entry per Tweet, Max 2/Day (2 hours apart minimum)

#Win the new You Curl curling iron (ARV $49.99) from @conair_hair & @fashionablegal http://wp.me/pbj1u-1Si



Deep-Dive For a Good Cause with DEPTH!

June 10th, 2010 by Laney

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“Beneath the deep end of the ocean, the bottom of the sea has no shortage of mysterious creatures and is also rich in therapeutic ingredients. Depth utilizes these essential, sea-based ingredients to stimulate skin with a surge of moisture like no other. Depth enhances the skin’s ability to remain healthy, hydrated and resilient. The therapeutic sea botanicals within Depth are best known for their moisturizing properties, but they also serve to supply essential fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and amino acids to protect and detoxify the skin. Drawing upon three different classes of sea botanicals – Brown (Phaeophyta), Green (Chlorophyta) and Red (Rhodophyta) algae – delivery of hydration and minerals to the skin has never been so moisturizing. Together, these algae powerhouses act as detoxifiers, while individually delivering their own unique skin benefits.

The Depth collection consists of shampoos, conditioners, hand soaps, body wash, hand and body lotions, and shave creams in four exclusive scents:  Mangrove Citrus, Sea Berry, Orange Blossom and Bay Coconut.

Depth was the first Whole Foods Market’s Premium skincare brand, a feat accomplished only by combining the purest products which comply with the strict standards for quality sourcing, environmental impact, results and safety. The products are all natural, 70% organic, 100% vegetarian, hypo-allergenic, and free of parabens, artificial colors, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, petroleum and mineral oils, glycols, and harsh cleansers such as SLS/SLES. They also feature 100% natural aromatic blends, which were designed by the prominent French perfumer Jean-Pierre Subrenat.

To commemorate and honor World Oceans Day, Depth will donate $1 from each unit sold at Whole Foods and on Whole Foods Online from June 8th through June 15th to the National Audubon Society for Gulf oil spill recovery.”



The Accidental Stylist: Guide to Men’s Hairstyles

May 12th, 2010 by Laney

0 Comments

   

As chronicled in yesterday’s New York Time’s Style Section – boy bangs, mop tops, and messy ‘dos are all the rage. From a singing sensation and breathtaking vampire to a desirable doc and sexy socialite, these gentlemen have that effortless swagger of eternal youth. Whether they’re caught on the red carpet, sipping a latte or on their way home late at night, how does their hair look so good so often?

Justin Bieber has taken the world by storm with his chart-topping, catchy songs and boyish good looks.  While “Bieber fever” is all over the place, this heart throb’s locks have managed to stay in place and turn an old trend into the latest look. This “Mob Top” bowl cut is reminiscent of the “Beatles” shaggy style, leaving the ladies wanting more. Begin with clean, fresh hair, then lather the H2O Plus Sea Salt Replenishing Shampoo ($20), specially formulated with pure sea salt and marine botanicals.  This ultra hydrating shampoo cleansers helps to remove impurities while adding moisture and shine to dry strands.

Robert Pattinson makes girls go ga-ga with his incredible looks, dashing appeal on the big screen and adorable British charm. But what makes the ladies really swoon… his sexy, unkempt hair.

Blow, the New York Blow Dry Bar’s Derrick Keith weighs in on getting this “just rolled out of bed” style. After shampooing strands with a clarifying shampoo, comb through with your fingers and let hair air dry. Then work through a light pomade like Blow’s Mane Tame ($22) to create structure and hold that looks sexy yet natural.

Chace Crawford has all the girls gossiping about his sexy sought after hair, but his messy mane doesn’t happen without a little help.

To achieve this piecey yet structured look, work a nickel size amount of Jack Black Sleek Finish Texture Cream ($16)  into hair for long-lasting, flexible control.  The ultra-conditioning formula gives hair a controlled, sleek finish with no stiffness or greasiness.

I did not write the article above.



Mother’s Day Idea: Mum’s The Word at Blow

April 27th, 2010 by Laney

0 Comments

   

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, not sure what to get the lady in your life? Give her a day of pampering at Blow … now with the purchase of a gift card, Blow is throwing in a complementary manicure, what more could a gal ask for? From NOW until Mother’s Day purchase a giftcard at BlowNY online for $50 and she’ll receive a complimentary manicure.

While you’re there, you might want to check out Blow’s hair care line, as an extra treat for Mom – or yourself!



Summer 2010 Hairstyle Tips & Secrets

March 30th, 2010 by The Fashionable Housewife

2 Comments

   

With the warm summer months quickly approaching, it’s all about ease, free-loving strands that stand against humidity. Below, Elie Gerdak, owner of the Elie Elie Salon in Tyson’s Corner, VA, shares what’s hot for summer 2010…

“Summer is all about healthy locks that defy humidity and thrill! Whether you’re headed to the beach or for a night out on the town, your hairstyle should emulate the upcoming trends – curls and volume!”

    * Treat yourself to a hydrating masque that will infuse your locks with moisture. After days at the beach or poolside, your dried-out hair will thank you for giving it a little TLC. Apply Elie Elie Revitalizing Treatment Masque No. 5 to locks and take a seat outside under the sun and enjoy a relaxing and beneficial conditioning treatment. SRP: $39.
    * The biggest trend this summer? The side ponytail. To achieve this look brush hair free of snarls, grip the hair behind one ear and twist a hair tie around the ponytail. Cover the band with hair by wrapping in around and over the band, next, use a large barrel curling iron to create huge, loose curls.
    * We saw controlled frizz all over the runway this year. To perfect the look make sure that all hair is free of tangles, add a generous amount of Elie Elie Polishing Gelée, No. 7and embrace your curly ‘do! SRP: $26.
    * Volume, volume volume! Be sure to invest in hot rollers to achieve ultimate volume and large curls. Indulging in Elie Elie’s Élixir Bouclé for fine to medium hair, No. 8will prep your hair for a volumized look. First apply a generous amount of No. 8, dry the hair, set with hot rollers, allow the roller to cool completely and then finger comb curls. SRP: $27.

Want to know more about Spring and Summer 2010 hairstyles and trends? See the complete list of…

Spring Summer 2010 Hair Trends



Prismera Designs: Hair Accessories for Spring 2010

March 15th, 2010 by Laney

2 Comments

   

I adore these new Rose Bobby Pins from Prismera Design.  There are four colors available, all of which are pictured above.  I’m particularly partial to Blush (light pink) and Ivory (pale yellow).  A single pin will add a touch of sweetness to any Spring outfit, even if it’s just jeans and a tee.  I must say that they’re a bit on the expensive side – $16 apiece – but they’re high quality pieces so you get what you pay for!

Prismera’s Spring Hair Accessories collection features several other styles of hair clips, all of which are very pretty.  Two standouts for me are the Coral Woodruff Rose Clip and the Midnight Branch Rose Clip.

Add these to a simple style or a messy up do (one of the Spring’s hot styles) for a dash of easy elegance!



OSCARS | Spring Hair Trend: Messy Up Do How-To

March 11th, 2010 by Laney

2 Comments

   

Celebs including Faith Hill, Jennifer Lopez, Sarah Jessica Parker, Rachel McAdams, Miley Cyrus, Penelope Cruz, Zoe Saldana and Kristen Stewart all embraced this look.

To get the look at home, celebrity stylist Oscar Blandi (who created Faith’s look and has worked with Penelope and Jennifer) suggests following these steps:

Step 1
: To create this look, the base is critical. Let 70% of the hair air dry and apply Oscar Blandi Volumizing Spray from roots to end. Flip the hair upside-down and blow-dry on low mild heat.

Step 2: Secure all the hair at the nape of the neck with an elastic, using your fingers as a comb to separate the hair for a natural pulled back effect. Wrap individual hair sections around the ponytail and secure with hair pins for a undone chignon.

Step 3: Lightly pull out hair around the hairline to create a tussled loose frame around the face.

Step 4: Finish with Oscar Blandi Lacca Hairspray for shine and a flexible hold.

I did not write the article above – it was sent to me by the PR agency that represents Oscar Blandi.  I do use Oscar Blandi products and am a big fan of them!

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