I continue my interview with Brenda Stanton of Nico Bella Salon in Camas, Washington.
K: When doing color analysis, hair, skin and eye colors dictate what direction I go. When you make a recommendation for overall color and/or highlights do you look at skin, eyes or both?
B: I look at skin tone. I see many women who want that beach blond look, and it really is not the best with with their skin tone. There is also many who have an over processed look and that is “out” as well.
K: What are the current trends in color?
B: Warm browns–shades of carmel. All over color with no highlights is in. We are also seeing subtle highlights and not as “chunky” The trend is VERY natural looking.
K: What is a universal cut that looks good on MOST women?
B: Graduated bob– it’s especially great for fine hair as it makes it look thicker. Collar bone length is a great length for many women.
K: Do you ever look at body type in addition to face shape? Is there something to balancing the hair and the body type?
B: Yes, petite women look better with collar bone length or a bob cut. Many women with this body type want big hair and it almost has the opposite effect and makes them look smaller.
K: If a client with long hair asks my advice on a cut, I suggest going in stages by starting with a few layers around the neckline and face, still allowing them to pull it back. I find that women who have had long hair for years struggle the most to style their hair because it’s been pretty low maintenance. Do you agree?
B: Yes!
K: I also see women with very thick hair, almost unmanageable. I’ve heard that it is all in the cut–thinning. The mistake many stylists make is not taking enough hair out in order for it to lay right.
B: This is true. Layers are also important! Blending–not just thinning. The stylist needs to use a thinning shears. The layers need to be the right length or that will throw off the style and how the hair lays.
Below are some photos of longer, layered hair styles. I’m a big fan of layers. Although I have fine hair, my hair stylist has suggested that I will always be one that needs layers–not an all one length bob. I agree. I am actually trying to grow out my hair a little, but I will always have some layers.
K: What is the biggest change in hair products in the last few years?
B: Hair texture oils–argon oils to protect from heat. Root boosts–even in powder form are great. Keratin smoothing treatments that are formaldehyde free. It’s a great treatment for curly hair. It won’t straighten yet it softens curl and cuts drying time in half.
(Karen’s Note: Ask your stylist for the best, latest products for you. It’s very individual. For example, great strides have been made in products for fine hair. I can’t believe the volume I can get with root boosts compared to years ago.)
Are you ready for a new look? Brenda is offering a Free haircut/style!! Make a comment and you’ll be entered. Contest ends Saturday, November 26. 2011 at 9 pm PST.
In addition, you’ll receive 10% off any service if you mention Style by Karen when you call.
My hair tends to stay about the same length and style, but I have so much fun playing with color! I’ve gone through the summer blond to autumny reds and coppers, and am wondering what to do for winter. My real hair color is brown & silver. I don’t know… is it time to embrace “winter white”??
Color is fun!
Great info… I am one of those that has lots of hair! Just had my hair done by Joni @ Parkwest and love it. She graduated my hair down to almost the shoulders (needs to grow some more) and highlighted. I look younger, thinner and now need a new pic for facebook! What Karen states in this info sheet makes great sense!
It’s so great when you can find someone that totally gets what you want AND can help you go from one style to another.
I have very straight hair and very low maintenance. I love to experiment with cut and color and would also love to go shorter, I have almost always had longer hair. I am going to be modeling for kikaPaprika in January, so I’d LOVE to win a consultation!
It is nice to know that my experience when I do cut my hair short is not unusual! Having had long hair for most of my life, when I do go short the hardest part is the fact that it always must be “done” which takes time and effort. Also, interesting to hear that all one color is one of the trends. As budget cuts have necessitated my coloring my own hair now, I don’t have those wonderful highlights I love and miss. At least I am not out of style. Also, learned about some new products! Thanks Karen!
Last month I had my hair cut and highlighted by a stylist who I can always count on; unfortunately, he’s located in another state! I have not been able to find someone here, that gives me a wonderful cut time after time. My only constraint is that I be able to pull my hair back in a pony tail. I’m a wash and wear gal, and have never spent much time on my hair. If I ever blow it dry, it’s because it’s very cold out or I have an extra 5 minutes to kill!