Proof That Bangs Are Beautiful at Any Age

Anyone who has ever tried getting a fringe—blunt, wispy, curly—would say that this style is quite polarizing. It has the ability to transform your look drastically with just a few snips. Bangs give a naturally youthful look, making it a go-to for women of all ages. If you’re intimidated by this style, don’t be! There are many ways to wear a fringe today, from middle-parted styles to classic side parts. I rounded up a few hairstyle inspirations you might want to try for the new season.

Curtain Bangs

This face-framing style is a crowd favorite, and I can see why. Not only is it a versatile look, it’s also a style that flatters any face shape, and can be used to hide wide foreheads or slim down round cheeks. It’s a low-maintenance option that you can actually do yourself (if you’re confident cutting your hair, that is).

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The key to maintaining curtain bangs is to trim them often. You’ll want to keep that “growing it out” look because that’s the charm of this specific fringe style. What I love the most about curtain bangs is that it suits any hair type, so don’t let your waves, curls, or coils hold you back!

Full-On Fringe

If you want to make a statement, this style is as blunt as it gets (no pun intended!). Actress and musician   Zooey Deschanel is the epitome of this style, proving that full bangs look amazing and flattering no matter your age.

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To style, use a styling mist or serum, then blow-dry for a more volumized look. You can also go over your fringe with a flat iron for a sleek look.

Wispy Bangs

Wispy bangs are perfect for those who can’t commit to the full fringe just yet. Because of her long but wispy bangs, actress, director, and writer Rashida Jones has the option to wear them full on her forehead or brush them up or to the side for variation.

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You can blowdry your wispy bangs front and forward if you want a full-bangs look. And you can get away with sweeping your bangs on both sides, then rake them gently with your fingers for a fuller head of hair. It’s another low-maintenance option if you don’t have the patience to keep your fringe in place. Style it with a texturizing spray to give your bangs more body and fluff.

Feathered Fringe

Popularized in the late ’70s, feathered bangs have come a long way to becoming one of the most timeless hairstyles ever. It’s a flattering style that frames the face beautifully regardless of your face shape. Look at how her long fringe beautifully frames the face of actress, singer and beauty brand owner Jennifer Lopez.

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Made to complement layered hairstyles, feathered bangs go with any haircut. They also bring a certain softness to your look, giving you a youthful and vibrant glow. To style, blow-dry your bangs on each side away from the face to create the perfect flip. Spritz on a texturizing spray or light-hold hairspray to keep your fringe in place.

Curly Fringe

Gone are the days when bangs were deemed flattering only for straight hair. More and more women are trying out curly bangs, and I love how they add character and dimension to any look! Just take a look at the curly bangs of actress (and daughter of Diana Ross) Traci Ellis Ross.

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Whether you’re currently rocking a bob, lob, single-length, or shaggy hairstyle, a fringe will effortlessly elevate your look and make you appear more youthful. Use a texturizing spray to style your bangs and gently scrunch to form beautiful curls.

I hope you were inspired by the bangs inspirations I rounded up. If want to try bangs for a new look, the new season, or just for a new you, book an appointment at ShineForth Salon and I’ll be happy to give you the best bangs style for you.

Main photo by RODNAE Productions.

Age-Defying Hairstyle Ideas—They Exist!

Sometimes, no matter how extensive your skincare arsenal is, nothing can make you look and feel youthful than a flattering hairstyle. I understand that looking young isn’t the end-all-be-all of life, but if switching up your hairdo can make you feel 10 years younger, I’m here to help.

You want to consider length, color, and style when choosing a hairstyle. The right cut can open up your face or accentuate features that weren’t that visible because of your current hairstyle. Whatever suits your vibe, be sure to communicate it to your stylist so that they have a clearer vision of what you want.

Forget the fountain of youth—opt for the crown of youth instead (your hair!).

Wavy Lob

There’s a reason why lobs are a favorite of many. It’s the sweet spot between long and short, with its shoulder-length layers grazing the decolletage and framing the face. It’s also so easy to style. Adding soft waves or curls can elevate this classic cut further and give it a relaxed, edgy vibe.

Feathered Shoulder Length

This is similar to a lob but a few inches shorter. It has more noticeable layers that frame the face beautifully. I love this hairstyle because it is customizable, meaning you can work with your stylist (or me!) to create the best layers for your look.

Textured Pixie

If you were a cool girl before, you’re a cool girl now with this cut. Pixie styles bring out your best features because it opens and brightens up the face. Whether it’s on the longer or shorter side, pixies offer volume that is effortlessly flattering for any age.

Bob With Wispy Bangs

Like its cooler counterpart, the lob, bobs are perfect for any age. They’re incredibly easy to style, plus they’re suitable for any hair type. A bob with wispy bangs gives off a youthful vibe because it hides lines and frames the face tightly. Coordinate with your stylist to get the correct length for you.

Big, Voluminous Curls

This hairstyle is a no-brainer. Go for over-the-top volume paired with a deep side part to get that dramatic look. Any woman who can carry big curls exudes youth, exuberance, and confidence. You can also style it into a messy bun for a laid-back look.

Full Bangs

We have Anna Wintour to thank for making full, blunt bangs acceptable for any age. This fringe style may look dramatic, but if it works for you, go for it! It’s perfect for hiding lines and drawing attention to your eyes. Here’s a quick tip: If you have a round or oval face, it’s better to ask for a softer fringe that’s slightly feathered.

Long and Layered Beach Waves

Think of this hairstyle as a modern take on Farrah Fawcett’s iconic waves. Depending on the season, you can opt for loose waves for spring and summer and amp up the volume for fall and winter. You can also ask your stylist to choose a flattering hair color to make your waves pop more.

A flattering hairstyle truly can shave years off your look. Come over to ShineForth Salon and let me help you find the perfect cut for you.

Main photo by Polina Tankilevitch from Pexels

Simple Tips on Cutting Curly and Textured Hair

If there’s anything I’ve learned as a hairstylist in the past few years, cutting textured hair can be really rewarding. Textured hair requires a specific care routine to keep it soft, healthy, and bouncy, and haircuts are definitely part of that care. From wavy to tight coils, there is no “one cut fits all” approach to cutting curly hair. 

Luckily for you, I love working on beautifully textured hair! I’ve mastered different techniques for cutting and styling curly hair (just ask my clients!), so I’m excited to share with you what I know. Ahead, I’ve listed some do’s and don’ts for cutting curly and textured hair.

Do: Skip the Shampoo

Starting with a nice wash is one red flag you need to watch out for. But let me be clear: There’s nothing wrong with a bit of shampoo before haircuts—it’s just not the way to go with textured or curly hair. Shampoo fluffs up the curls, making cutting more difficult since the hair’s natural shape is gone. Remember to ask for a dry cut so that your curls are relaxed. So no shampoo but you might try conditioning the hair instead, which nourishes the curls.

Depending on how tight the curl is, sometimes I will fluff out the hair completely to see the shape to determine the cut I’ll give, the condition of the hair at the bowl, and then I style. In other words, when it comes to curls, cutting and caring for the hair is not a one size fits all method. 

Don’t: Add tension when cutting

Doing so obscures the curl pattern, resulting in a shorter, possibly unflattering cut. Pay attention to how the stylist holds your curls when cutting. Less tension means your curls will not bounce too close to the head once released. There shouldn’t be a lot of finger tension and comb tension either.

Do: Mind the length

Length matters when cutting curly hair because it naturally shrinks up when dry. Talk to your stylist about how much length you want to be removed. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and go for the “less is more” route. You can also consult this with your hairstylist. After all, they should know what’s best for your hair.

Don’t: Use any hair products beforehand

This is pretty self-explanatory. Hair products can weigh down your curls and make it difficult to see what the hair naturally wants to do, so it’s best to go au naturel when you visit your hairstylist. It’s always best to work with your textured hair in its most natural state.  Save your styling products after getting your haircut.

Do: Schedule a consultation first

I’ve discussed how important it is to choose the right hairstylist for you in a previous blog post. Once you’ve found the one, the next step is to set an appointment to discuss the ideal cut for your hair type. A good stylist always considers hair density, growth patterns, and different curl types on various sections of your head. You should also keep a few questions in mind so that your stylist has all the information they need before working their magic on your hair.

It’s time to embrace your hair’s natural texture

Consider yourself blessed and unique if you’re part of the curly-haired tribe. Whatever your curl type is, there’s a perfect cut for you, so don’t be afraid to try new styles that let your natural texture stand out.

Photos by Lookstudio and Vitae London on Unsplash

The $30,000 Pyramid

"So, what do you love about your hair?  What don't you like about it?  And when did you last get your haircut?"  I asked to begin the consultation with Leslie, a new client. Through Squaw Valley Writer's Conference in "07, I met a group of women writer's from the Bay Area.  Some of us have remained in contact, some have read at the readings I've held at the salon, and a few have even become clients.  One of the writer's that I had become a client, referred her friend Leslie.  Her curly hair was lovely, and way over due for a cut.  The longest layer on top reached to about her chin, sagging her beautiful face down "I'm one of those annoying clients, who wants to keep some length, but feel it's too heavy up here,"  she replied, pulling at her hair on top.  "I just got it cut six weeks ago.  That isn't very long is it?"

"No, it isn't, not for curly hair." 

"I feel like always leave with the same haircut."

"What attitude do you want your hair to have?"

"Ooh, that is a good question.  I've never been asked that.  Hmm.  Well, what do you think I have?"

"Long hair."

"Yeah, I feel like I look like a hippie, but without the hippie."

"Do you want to move into something a little more edgy?"

"What does that mean?"

"Edgy means to me a stronger shape."

"What does that look like?"

"Okay well, let me get my hands in here.  I think if you brought the length up to shoulder length, then took this hair away from your face a bit, slightly off center, then layered out this top, we'd be getting somewhere. I want to round out it out, so that you don't have a pyramid shape, and I'll do some dry cutting."

"Sounds, good.  Yeah, I've had the $30,000 pyramid quite often."

"You are funny." 

"Well, you come up with all kinds of names when you've had this kind of hair for a long time."

She removed her glasses, which was as slight discomfort, because she could not say anything. And so we cut, and cut and cut.  I asked at one point I asked if she would like to put the glasses back on.  No, she said, she was enjoying not seeing.  Then product instruction, then I twisted the hair and diffused.  Her hair looked fabulous.  Bouncy, full, sassy.   

I unwrapped her, she reached for her glasses, and as we spun the chair around, she exclaimed, "Oh wow.  I love it." She remained in the chair a bit, wanting to take in her image a bit.  We laughed about her looking for reflective surfaces to gaze in, on her way home.  We agreed it was a transformation.

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Flat Iron Allure

I've been at war with what I do for a long time.  The beauty industry can seem so shallow, and full of itself, everybody taking themselves much to seriously.  At times, it can feel as though I am participating in the this large web of nonsense, which can make most women feel like they are on the outside.  And yet, for 27 years I've been standing behind the chair, helping women feel good about the way they look, is a very powerful act.  Because some of these women don't get approval, or made to feel beautiful at home, or at their work, it's vital to their self-esteem that they get it somewhere.  And if I haven't achieved this one thing for my client, than I have failed at my job. I had a client come in the other day, who I've seen for a couple of years.  She's made a couple of changes with her style, usually encouraged by her.  And when she does, she is firm about it.  The last style change, she brought in a picture of herself, long ago.  Her hair just sat in a long, bowl shaped, heavy look, almost looking like a wig.  "Outdated."  I thought to myself.  But I went with it, knowing I'd be able to update the look by letting her know it would look that much better if we made some adjustments. The idea of growing her hair frizzy, curly, hair out was unappealing.  But we began a six month process of growing it out.  We have achieved what she was going for, a feeling of more femininity.  We continue to talk about cutting off the medium brown, colored hair and letting her white hair show.  The color is pretty, I just wonder about the texture and being white.  I would like to see it.

The other day, I decided to flat iron her hair.  She has so wanted straight hair, and yet, she has only chemically straightened her hair once.  I'm relieved, perfectly smooth hair has always been difficult for me to accept.  Well, you would have thought I had made her world perfect.  She loved it!  Ohhing and ahhing out the door.

Then the calls started.  One the next morning, one that afternoon. She could only speak to me.  I called her back and got her machine, after a couple of rounds of calls, we spoke.  "Rebecca, I love my hair."  I laughed, and said, 'Great!'  "No, you have to understand.  I feel pretty.  I have never felt this way about the way I look."  Her husband dropped his jaw.  Men are looking at her.  The calls continued about setting up appointments to flat iron her hair, and then having to change them.

She feels conflicted about this, and I do to.  Her hair needs to be cut, if she is going to be wearing it straight.  Will she do it?  And, she feels at some level, she is fighting her hair. And, now with all the phone calls, it's a lot to manage if I have to be the one to make and move her appointments.  Regardless, the fact that she feels pretty, makes it all worth it. 

A La Carte

Okay, my post from two days ago, was a bit of a rant.  Just me, trying to find my place in the social order.  It's looking like I'm the crone, the oldest in the bunch.  I can delicately support those younger than I.  I needed support when I was their age.   In our day long, salon pow wow, with the consulting firm went well.  As I suspected, it will take time to implement the changes we would like to make.  It was good to be on neutral territory.  People did feel comfortable enough to bring up issues with the people they have grievances with.  We did the Myers Briggs Test. It helped to identify what kind of people we are individually, and as a group. I being the only introvert, by five points.  But the majority of the folks there have no follow through.  Interesting to note. And they are all extroverts!  So, they feed off the salon being loud and busy.  What is my work here?  Take deep breaths.

I gave a two-hour class the other night at the salon.  I was coming off the flu, and still a mess, looking back.  I pulled my inner resources together and gave the class anyway.  This class had been scheduled for eons though, I needed to follow through.  As it turned out, the other stylist is an extrovert, and loves being the star, so she held center stage most of the time.  We taught what we had learned at Terri Dougherty's class.  And when it came time for the haircut demo, I completely started making up my own haircut. In my flu stupor, I even said, "Forget the diagram, it's wrong."  And I proceeded to give the model the cut, incorrectly.  I felt I couldn't let the model know that.  I let everybody know afterwards.

From that mistake, I learned the correct way to do the haircut.  It's from this year's collection, inspired by food.  This haircut is awesome for curly or straight hair.  It's called A La Carte.  Three sections and your done.  Not for the Sassoon followers.  I'll put up the pictures, soon as I get them.  We had four fabulous models, all very different from each other.  A great time was had by all.  Another humbling experience to add to the list.

Hair Flying

I've got twenty minutes to write.   Well, hum, I could write about salon politics, which seems to be prevalent.  Or I could write about a new client I had last week.  Luscious, thick, curly hair.  Lovely personality--witty, smart, creative and pretty, in a non-traditional way.  Her look was in-congruent with what seemed to be an alternative profession by dressing conservatively. Her voluminous hair sat heavy on her head, dragging down her already long face.  She was open and clear she wanted to keep length, so we did.  We layered, textured, channeled and lifted her hair, which took time.  A slight a-line, layered bob was the desired shape. 

To see her hair come to life by releasing it's swirls and arcs, and hair flying, an onlooker would think it was a well-thought-out choreographed dance piece.  Her hair came to life as we partnered in the dance.  We I handed her the mirror to look at the profile, she said, "I love it."

I thought to myself as she left, "This is the type of client I want to attract!"  

Everything about the experience left me fulfilled.  Boundaries existed, but they didn't color the whole event, and both of us appeared to be free in the time we shared.  Beautiful.

More please!

Curly Hair

Springy, bouncy, frizzy, coarse, or fine doesn't matter, curly hair is the most challenging hair for me to cut. Specifically, the coarse or frizzy head of hair, where the client isn't product oriented. But I love cutting it's twists and turns. I never knew how to cut it before.  Clients would leave with haircuts that looked like pyramids, cones, or entirely too bulky.  I didn't know about texturing or channeling fat curly hair.  The finesse of cutting curly hair has taken years to develop.

And, still, it can leave me baffeled and doubting myself. Everything I've learned about curly hair has come through watching other hairstylists, some online training, and working with it for 24 years. This is where personal growth and professional developement step in.  Perhaps I should attend a class. 

Curly hair, the definition of humility. I bow to you.